The monastery was founded by Ephraim, a boyar from Hungary who served Prince Vladimir of Novgorod.
Architect Nikolay Lvov, who designed the cathedral, is buried near the monastery grounds.
The cathedral dome was famously constructed using an innovative cast-iron frame design for the era.
The monastery suffered significant damage and functioned as a prison and military storage facility during the 20th century.
The Vvedenskaya Church is the oldest surviving structure within the current monastery complex.
The site is located on the 'Stary Torg' (Old Market) hill, which gives the town of Torzhok its name.
The Boris and Gleb Monastery in Torzhok is one of the oldest monastic sites in Russia, founded in 1038 by Ephraim of Novotorzhok. The monastery is prominently situated on a high hill overlooking the Tvertsa River. Its centerpiece is the Boris and Gleb Cathedral, designed by the neoclassical architect Nikolay Lvov and constructed between 1785 and 1796. The site features a mix of architectural styles, including the 17th-century Vvedenskaya Church and the early 19th-century Spasskaya Church. The monastery served as a vital spiritual and defensive outpost along the trade route between Novgorod and Vladimir. Much of the complex underwent significant restoration in the 21st century after decades of neglect during the Soviet period. The monastery grounds offer expansive views of the historic center of Torzhok. It functions as a working Orthodox monastery.
From the pedestrian bridge crossing the Tvertsa River looking back up at the monastery hillside.
Walk to the edge of the monastery hill for the best panoramic view of the Tvertsa River and the town skyline.
Visit the small museum exhibit within the monastery if open to learn about the history of its restoration.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes as the grounds feature uneven stone paths and steep inclines.
Do not take photographs of monks or clergy without explicit permission.
Grounds may be restricted during major Orthodox religious services.
Modest dress is required: women should cover their heads and shoulders, and men should wear long trousers; avoid loud conversations.
