Zahoriv Monastery is a former male monastery near the village of Novyi Zahoriv in the Volodymyr District of Volyn, known since the 16th century. Today, it is a semi-ruined complex on a hill, one of the most atmospheric landmarks of the region.
The Monastery of the Zahorovskyis
In 1492, the nobleman Oleksandr Zahorovskyi and his wife Nastasiia donated a bell to the monastery with an inscription recording the gift "to the monastery in Zahoriv." The first known superior was Dionisii, who became hegumen in 1583. Throughout the 15th to 17th centuries, the village and monastery belonged to the Zahorovskyi family.
In 1566, a stone church was founded. The monastery housed a scriptorium for copying books, a printing house, an icon painting workshop, and a hospital. Fifteen people are buried here, nine of whom were patrons of the monastery—the Zahorovskyis or their relatives.
What to See
The ruins of the church and monastery buildings on a hill, offering views of the fields of the Lokachi region. The place is secluded, so it is best to visit during the day and wear comfortable shoes.
Why People Visit
Zahoriv is a rare example of a monastery that served as a center of book literacy in Volyn: books were copied and printed here, and icons were painted. The ruins on the hill look great in photos at sunrise and sunset. It is an interesting spot for those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path sites and tranquility.
The Monastery Today
Only the ruins of the church and individual buildings on the hill remain of the former monastery. It is best to view the complex from the outside by walking around the hill, which reveals the true scale of the former monastery.
How to Get There
Novyi Zahoriv is located near Lokachi, about an hour from Lutsk. It is convenient to combine a visit here with Volodymyr and Zymne. Read more in the article Volodymyr District.
