Moscow convents and monasteries used to play an important role in spiritual and cultural life of Russia since olden times up to the 18th – 19th centuries. Most of them were closely connected with private life of major state and religious figures of the country.
Being originally outposts of Moscow they carried out defensive functions in early times and later then were used as political shelters.
They are wonderful examples of old Russian fortresses as well as beautiful architectural ensembles.