There is a unique cave monastery of Saint martyr Anastasia in Crimea. The skit is located in the middle of the mountain gorge Tash-Air, 8 km from Bakhchisarai. Approximate time of creation of this most interesting place is 7-8 centuries.

During its history, the monastery had repeatedly fallen into decay or was completely eliminated. However, in 2005 the cave monastery began to revive again. By that time, this place was an abandoned quarry. Because of the high humidity and dampness, the paint on the walls did not hold. The monks came up with the idea to decorate the walls and ceiling with beads and homemade textile ornaments that were given by the parishioners.

Each decorative element of the temple is made of beads, pearls, small stones and shells. Icons, lamps and crosses are also decorated with colored beads and stones. Lighting in the cave monastery is created by numerous candles. Their flame is beautifully reflected on the surface of the beads, creating a special glow.

Pilgrims of the temple have an interesting tradition. They write their requests on small pieces of paper, placed in bags, attached to the cross. Then hung on the wall near the entrance to the monastery.

In January 2018, there was a large fire on the territory of the monastery. Several cells and some outbuildings were damaged. The monastery itself remained intact. The restoration of the territory is in full swing. In one of the cave monasteries it is planned to build a temple of the icon of the Holy Trinity.

A few more photos of the external decoration of the beaded monastery of Saint martyr Anastasia.