Reaching Korennaya Pustyn, Kursk
Korennaya Pustyn is a monastery located in the Svoboda region of Kursk, approximately 30 km from the historical centre region. Despite being a picturesque place, there is much deeper and richer history that attracts religious pilgrims of Orthodox Christians from all over Russia.
Back in 1295, two hunters were walking in the forest around the Tuskar river, found the Icon of Theothokos that was placed facing downwards and as soon as the hunter picked it up, fresh spring water emerged from the ground. The Icon itself has its own story which you can read it here.
So, to reach this unique place, first and foremost you need to reach Dubrovinskogo Bus Stop, which is located opposite Linya supermarket near the Railway Hospital. Over there a number of mashruts (vans) will be parked.
Take the ones that says (Свобода) Svoboda. They have a timetable of departures and arrival so you need to be attentive. Don’t be afraid to ask the driver and inform him that you are headed to the monastery, only then they will guide you on which stop you should exit because the monastery is not the final stop of these mashruts. Price is 50 rubles per person.
After a 30 minute journey, they will stop you at the Pyatorochka market, and you will need to activate your navigatory skills to find your way to the monastery. Not difficult I believe, so here is a little google map guide to assist. If you do get lost, just ask a passer by.
Once you reach the monastery entrance you will find the square with merchants selling various handmade crafts and products. A monument to the historical discovery of the Kursk Root Icon is also erected on the square. Kursk Korenskaya Fair is a annual fair of merchants that is hosted here, but due to the pandemic, it is cancelled this year.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Korennaya Pustyn Museum which is located on the left side of the square. With only 20 rubles as the entrance fee with loads of unique exhibits and information, you definitely shouldn’t miss it. It is also a chance for you to improve your Russian communicating skills.
The monastery consists of a complex of buildings, and the main Icon of Theothokos is located in the center church. Unfortunately it is a copy as the original currently resides in the ‘New Korennaya Pustyn’ located in America. Only in autumn they will bring the original Icon to Kursk.
Unfortunately no photos or videos were allowed. Only these 2 photos I managed to sneakily shoot. The Holy Icon is placed in the center as the priest stands there with antiseptic wipe to clean the Icon as a prophylactic measure during this Coronavirus Pandemic. But you are allowed to get a close up view of the Icon, and get marveled at its lavished copper ornaments with pearl embroided beads.
Further down the monastery, you will come across the exact location where the hunters found the Holy Icon who then decided to build a wooden chapel on top of the hill which is currently the main church. The spring water still flows until this day, and quenching your thirst with cold and refreshing spring water and getting a good splash on your face during a hot sunny day would easily be the best experience ever.
Cross the bridge on the opposite side to the fields and just let that beautiful view sink into your eyes. The first picture was taken back in October 2015 in autumn while the second picture was taken on June 2020 in spring!
Nature never fails to impress me no matter how cruel it can be.
Last but not least, after spending a good time in Korennaya Pustyn, please be aware of the time as there is limited transportation to take you back to the centre. The last mashrut is probably around 6.40pm! They may get delayed so you just have to be patient and don’t risk leaving too late. The bus stop will be opposite Sberbank office which is is located beside the Korennaya Pustyn Museum.
I wish you all a great journey, and don’t forget to study about its history to make your travels much more worthwhile. If you have any questions, do contact us or via Instagram or via email: thefadedriverbank@gmail.com.
