Illinska Church

The Illinska Church is an ancient temple located above the caves, creating a unique and atmospheric place for believers. It is a must-see destination that offers an unforgettable experience. The caves were founded by Anthony Anthony, a native of the Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery. To reach the Illinska Church and Anthony's Caves, you can take a small bus or car along the lower street. If you have a large bus, you will need to park it at the Trinity Cathedral and continue on foot. It is recommended to visit with a guide, and guide services can be arranged on-site. The prices are moderate, with 100 UAH for up to 5 people and 150 UAH for more than 5 people per group. However, if there are many visitors, it may require some waiting time as only three guides are available. The guide will show you the location of the famous Chernihiv ghost, "Monk Tarasy." Inside the caves, the temperature remains consistently cool, so it is advisable to wear something warmer, especially during the summer. At the box office, you can purchase souvenir magnets and various historical literature. The Illinska Church is one of the five temples from the pre-Mongol period that have managed to survive to this day in Chernigov. It was built and consecrated at the end of the 11th century or the beginning of the 12th century in honor of the Holy Prophet Elijah. The church is situated on the territory of the Theotokos Monastery, which was founded by the Monk Anthony of the Caves in 1069. Throughout history, the church has undergone restoration and rebuilding, with the most significant reconstruction taking place in the mid-17th century, funded by Chernigov Colonel Stepan Pobodaila. Since 1967, it has been a museum that forms part of the National Architectural and Historical Reserve "Ancient Chernigov." In the 1970s, it was restored by the architect M.M. Govdenko. Visitors have expressed their positive experiences with the Illinska Church, describing it as a good place with a wonderful atmosphere. Many visitors highly recommend exploring the Anthony's Caves located nearby. The church itself is an old historical building, possibly dating back to the 11th century, but it was destroyed during the Mongol-Tatar invasion. It was later restored in the 16th century and now stands as a protected architectural monument under the care of the state. Despite its slightly smaller size compared to other monuments of the same era, the church is in good condition and offers a fascinating glimpse into history.