Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2004
Size of heritage: 5.18 ha
- Buffer zone: 47 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 37,555°
Latitude: 55,726°
Summary
The Novodevichy Convent, in south-western Moscow, built in the 16th and 17th centuries in the so-called Moscow Baroque style, was part of a chain of monastic ensembles that were integrated into the defence system of the city. The convent was directly associated with the political, cultural and religious history of Russia, and closely linked to the Moscow Kremlin. It was used by women of the Tsar’s family and the aristocracy. Members of the Tsar’s family and entourage were also buried in its cemetery. The convent provides an example of the highest accomplishments of Russian architecture with rich interiors and an important collection of paintings and artefacts.
Location on Map
Show bigger map on Openstreetmap
Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent: A Historic Gem in Moscow
The Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent, located in the city of Moscow, Russia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This architectural masterpiece, also known as the New Maidens' Monastery, is a testament to the rich heritage of Russia and its Orthodox Christian traditions.
History
The Novodevichy Convent was founded in 1524 by Grand Prince Vasily III to commemorate the recapture of Smolensk from Lithuania. Over the centuries, it became one of the most important religious and cultural centers in Russia. The convent served as a residence for noblewomen, including members of the royal family, who took their vows and dedicated their lives to serving God.
Throughout its history, the Novodevichy Convent witnessed numerous significant events. It became a refuge for noblewomen seeking protection during times of political turmoil, such as the Time of Troubles in the early 17th century. The convent also played a role in the struggle for power during the reign of Peter the Great, as it was used to imprison his half-sister, Sophia Alekseyevna.
During the Soviet era, the Novodevichy Convent faced threats of destruction. However, due to its historical and architectural value, it was spared from demolition. Instead, it was transformed into a museum and later became a part of the State Historical Museum. In 1994, the ensemble was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, recognizing its outstanding universal value.
Current State
Today, the Novodevichy Convent stands as a remarkable example of medieval Russian architecture. The ensemble includes several buildings, such as the Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk, the Church of the Transfiguration, and the Church of the Intercession. These structures showcase a blend of architectural styles, including Muscovite Baroque and Russian Revival.
The Cathedral of the Virgin of Smolensk, the main church of the convent, is a stunning masterpiece adorned with intricate frescoes and icons. Its golden domes and elegant bell tower dominate the skyline of the surrounding area, creating a picturesque view that attracts visitors from around the world.
Aside from its architectural beauty, the Novodevichy Convent is also home to a cemetery where many notable figures from Russian history are buried. The cemetery is the final resting place of renowned writers, composers, politicians, and military leaders, including Anton Chekhov, Nikolai Gogol, and Raisa Gorbacheva.
Today, the Novodevichy Convent continues to serve as a functioning monastery, with a small community of nuns residing within its walls. It also welcomes visitors who come to admire its historical and cultural significance. The convent's museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the noblewomen who once resided there, showcasing their personal belongings, religious artifacts, and artworks.
The Ensemble of the Novodevichy Convent stands as a testament to the resilience of Russian culture and its Orthodox Christian heritage. Its historical and architectural significance, combined with its serene atmosphere, make it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the rich history of Moscow and Russia as a whole.
Hotels and places to stay
Aparthotel Adagio Moscow Kievskaya
Novotel Moscow Kievskaya
Unicorn Kievskaya Guest House
Radisson Slavyanskaya Hotel and Business Center
Hotel Korston Moscow
Yunost Hotel
ibis Moscow Kievskaya
Kvart Apartments Kievskaya
Panorama City
ARENA HOTEL MOSCOW
Videos from the area
Залаз на Стадион Лужники (реконструкция) / Penetration to the Luzhniki Stadium (reconstruction)
Javelin Men FINAL (IAAF World Championships, Moscow, 2013)
Javelin Men Final (IAAF World Championships, Moscow, 2013) POS BIB ATHLETE COUNTRY MARK 1 340 Vítezslav VESELÝ CZE 87.17 2 440 Tero PITKÄMÄKI FIN 87.07 3 974 Dmitri TARABIN RUS ...
Streetball game timelapse 2
You can download this clip as a MOV file without watermark here: http://bit.ly/1DJSr62 MOSCOW - May 6: Teenagers playing basketball in a city park. Time lapse at Moscow spring festival in...
Streetball game timelapse 1
You can download this clip as a MOV file without watermark here: http://bit.ly/1u8ufaz MOSCOW - May 6: Teenagers playing basketball in a city park. Time lapse at Moscow spring festival in...
Teenagers playing basketball 2
You can download this clip as a MOV file without watermark here: http://bit.ly/1xvQWjh MOSCOW - May 6: Teenagers playing basketball in a city park at Moscow spring festival in Luzhniki on...
Teenagers playing basketball 1
You can download this clip as a MOV file without watermark here: http://bit.ly/1CeIqJZ MOSCOW - May 6: Teenagers playing basketball in a city park at Moscow spring festival in Luzhniki on...
Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners. 
Vnukovo International AirportMedium airport - 15 mi (24 km)
Sheremetyevo International AirportLarge airport - 18 mi (29 km)
Bykovo AirportMedium airport - 21 mi (34 km)
Domodedovo International AirportLarge airport - 26 mi (42 km)
Turlatovo AirportSmall airport - 122 mi (196 km)
Staroselye AirportMedium airport - 172 mi (278 km)
Bigger and popular cities in the wider vicinity are these:
- Bryansk
- Cheremushki
Hlukhiv- Ivanovo
- Kaluga
- Kostroma
- Krasnaya Pahra
- Krolevets'
- Kursk
- LMS
- Lipetsk
- Moscow
- Novhorod-Sivers'kyy
- Oktyabr'skiy
- Orekhovo-Borisovo Yuzhnoye
- Oryol
- Pochep
- Ramenskoye
- Ryazan
- Seredyna-Buda
- Shostka
- Tambov
- Tula
- Tver-
- Vladimir
- Vologda
- Volokolamsk
- Voronezh
- Vostochnoe Degunino
- Yaroslavl
These are some smaller cities that might be interesting. They are all rather close.
- Bachurino
- Bibirevo
- Bittsa
- Brattsevo
- Bulatnikovo
- Dubrovskiy
- Dudkino
- Gazoprovod
- Govorovo
- Ivan'kovo
- Izmaylovo
- Kartmazovo
- Kommunarka
- Makarovo
- Mamyri
- Marfino
- Mosrentgen
- Nikolo-Khovanskoye
- Obruchevo
- Prokshino
- Rayevo
- Rumyantsevo
- Salar'yevo
- Shestoy Mikrorayon
- Solnechnyy
- Stolbovo
- Vyrubovo
- Zapadnyy
- Zarech'ye
- Zhabkino