The Pechersk Lavra (Pechersk stands for pechery, that is" caves" which are to be found in its territory and which early monks used to live in, and Lavra is an honorific title given to a monastery of extra-size and religious importance) is Kyiv's main tourist attraction; according to its promotional literature, more than 43 million people have visited the site.

The origins of the Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery are closely related to the introduction of Christianity in Kyiv Rus' in the 10-th century. To keep the new religion alive Princes built impressive churches and by all means supported the activity of the first monks who went from place to place teaching the Christian Faith, preaching and settling centers of the worship.

During the next ten centuries the Monastery played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of the country and its history was full of interesting events. Many famous people had deep connection to Lavra.

Being situated at the hillside, the territory of Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery is split into two parts called "Upper Lavra" and "Lower Lavra" and occupies about 50 acres. 86 buildings (Uspenskiy Cathedral, Bell Tower, Troitskaya Church, Hospital Church, All-Saints Church, Refectory, Museum, etc) present various architectural styles of the past. Numerous exhibitions and museums help an interested visitor to learn much about the history, national traditions and folk art.

The architectural complex of the Monastery the way it looks today is truly grandiose. On a sunny day one is almost dazzled by the reflections from the innumerable golden domes above churches and belfries. Nowadays Lavra is both a collection of unique museums and a functioning monastery.

There is an entire network of caves that runs beneath the monastic settlement, which, for a small price, tourists can explore by candlelight, peering into the open coffins of deceased monks. Everyone who visits Kyiv simply must make the trek to the Lavra at some point!