Danilov Monastery is an active Russian Orthodox monastery on Ulitsa Danilovskiy Val in Moscow, with historic churches, green grounds and a calm setting for prayer or quiet reflection. Founded in 1282 by Daniel of Moscow, son of Alexander Nevsky, it is considered the city’s oldest monastery. The central church holds the relics of St Daniil, and the grounds are enclosed by 17th-century walls and seven towers. Shops nearby sell bread, pastries, drinks and other food made by people living at the monastery.
Founded by Daniel of Moscow
Danilov Monastery takes its name from Daniel of Moscow, a son of Alexander Nevsky. It was established in 1282, but was soon moved to another site. The original grounds later became a graveyard.
In 1560, Ivan the Terrible visited the area and learned about the abandoned monastery. He invited monks to return and ordered a church to be built near Daniel’s grave. The Russian Orthodox Church venerates Daniel as a saint.
Walls and towers
The monastery’s defensive walls were built in the mid-17th century, when the site’s position on Moscow’s southern approaches gave it strategic importance. The walled grounds have seven towers. In 1591, as a Crimean army approached Moscow, the monastery grounds were fortified and used as a mobile camp.
FAQ
When was Danilov Monastery founded?
It was founded in 1282 by Daniel of Moscow, a son of Alexander Nevsky.
What can you see inside the monastery?
The central church holds the relics of St Daniil. The grounds also contain historic buildings and defensive walls with seven towers.
What can you buy near Danilov Monastery?
Two nearby shops sell bread, pastries, drinks and other food made by people living at the monastery.
