Spiritual journeys in Ukraine: Must-visit pilgrimage routes
The most interesting pilgrimage sites in Ukraine (photo: Getty Images)
Pilgrimage in Ukraine is a unique opportunity to combine spirituality and travel. Every year, thousands of pilgrims walk hundreds of kilometers to visit holy sites, pray, and receive blessings. These routes attract not only believers but also tourists who seek a new meaning in travel. Which holy sites in Ukraine are visited every year by believers and tourists?
Zarvanytsia: Heart of Ukrainian pilgrimage
The Marian spiritual center in Zarvanytsia in the Ternopil region has existed for over 800 years. It preserves a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary.
Pilgrims cover dozens and hundreds of kilometers, often barefoot, taking part in nationwide pilgrimages and prayers.
Cathedral in Zarvanytsia (photo: Wikipedia)
Maniava skete: Monastery in the mountains
Amid the spruce forests of the Carpathians stands the Maniava skete, also called the Ukrainian Athos. In the 17th century, pilgrims came here from all over Ukraine to visit the cave of Saint Onuphrius and draw healing water from the spring. The monastery continues to attract those seeking peace in the mountains.
Maniava skete (photo: Wikipedia)
Sviatohirsk Lavra: Spiritual fortress of the East
In eastern Ukraine, pilgrims are welcomed by the Sviatohirsk Lavra. The monastery stands on chalk cliffs above the Siverskyi Donets River and is known for its holy springs and bathing site. Here, pilgrims seek spiritual support, healing, and strength for inner harmony.
Sviatohirsk Lavra (photo: Wikipedia)
Univ Lavra: Ancient shrine of Halychyna
In the Lviv region, pilgrims are drawn to the Univ Lavra, the center of Basilian monasticism. It is believed that prayers here are more powerful, and the springs surrounding the monastery heal and bring peace to the soul.
Univ Lavra (photo: Wikipedia)
Pilgrimage today
The tradition of pilgrimage in Ukraine lives on. Every year, pilgrimages to Zarvanytsia, Univ, Krekhiv, and other holy sites gather thousands of people.
For many, it is not only a religious duty but also a way to feel spiritual renewal, unity with their ancestors, and the beauty of Ukrainian traditions.
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Sources: the official website of the Marian Spiritual Center in Zarvanytsia, the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, and the official portal of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine.
