Svyatogorsk State Historical and Architectural Reserve (SGIAZ)

Svyatogorsk State Historical and Architectural Reserve (SGIAZ) is located on the right side of the northern Donets river. In 1997, Svyatogorsk and the surrounding lands were named the Holy Mountains National Natural Park.

The reserve includes a whole complex of monuments of culture and history of the Holy Dormition Monastery, XVII - XX centuries. Among them are 30 historical and architectural sites and the National Nature Park. In 1980, the reserve was given the status of a state reserve.

The total area of the reserve is 40448 hectares. The fauna of the National Park is amazing: 123 species of rare plants grow here, more than 48 species are listed in the Red Book.

Previously, the Holy Mountains were known as a cave monastery, but over time it began to be built on the surface. Here is the underground church of Antony and Theodosius. The main property of the reserve is the Nikolaev Church, founded in the XVII century, on a chalk cliff. Next is the Andreevsky chapel. The temple of the Holy Dormition Lavra, made in the Russian-Byzantine style, looks very rich: three-dimensional columns with a gilded dome.

Special attention deserves the Svyatogorsk icon of the Mother of God. It was presented by an Athos monk, in recognition of the significance and holiness of the Lavra.