Pechory

Pechory is a town located in Pskov Oblast, Russia, situated near the border with Estonia. It is the administrative center of the Pechorsky District. The town is most famous for the Pskov-Pechersky Dormition Monastery, a historic Orthodox Christian monastery founded in the 15th century. The monastery is renowned for its cave churches, carved into the sandstone hills, which have served as burial sites and places of worship for centuries.

The area around Pechory has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to ancient times. Its strategic location has often made it a point of contention between various powers throughout history, including Russia, Sweden, and Poland. The town itself developed around the monastery, growing into a significant religious and trading center.

In the modern era, Pechory remains an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians. The town's economy is largely influenced by the monastery and related tourism, as well as local agriculture and small industries. The proximity to the Estonian border also plays a role in its regional significance. The architectural style of Pechory reflects its historical development, with many buildings dating from different periods, but the monastery remains its most prominent landmark.