Bakota Cave Monastery (remains) Guide
Bakota: Where History Meets Serenity Guide
Discover the haunting beauty and spiritual significance of the Bakota Cave Monastery, a partially submerged historical site near Staraya Ushitsa. This unique location offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, attracting those seeking a peaceful and reflective experience. The monastery's remains, now largely underwater due to the construction of a reservoir, evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation. The Bakota Cave Monastery was founded in the 12th century and quickly became an important religious center. Carved into the cliffs overlooking the Dniester River, the monastery flourished for centuries, serving as a place of worship, learning, and refuge. In the 13th century, it was destroyed by the Mongol invasion. It was rebuilt, but in the 1980s, the area was flooded to create a reservoir, submerging much of the monastery and the surrounding village of Bakota. Today, visitors can explore the visible remains of the monastery, including the cave entrances and some above-ground structures. The site is a popular spot for meditation and reflection, offering stunning views of the Dniester River and the surrounding landscape. Many believe the area possesses a unique spiritual energy. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly associated with the monastery ruins, local villages may offer traditional Ukrainian dishes.
Transportation
Reaching Bakota requires a bit of planning. The easiest way is by car or taxi from Kamenets-Podolsky or Khmelnytskyi. Public transportation is limited. You can take a bus to Staraya Ushitsa and then hire a local taxi or arrange for transportation to the Bakota site, which is a few kilometers outside the village.