Museum of Ukrainian Folk and Decorative Arts

Lonely Planet review

The cluster of buildings just south of the Assumption Cathedral includes the mildly interesting Museum of Ukrainian Folk and Decorative Arts and the Refectory Church of St Antoniy & St Feodosiy, sporting the monastery's most famous gold-striped dome. The main domed space is slightly reminiscent of Istanbul's Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom), with its ring of small narrow windows along the base of the drum. The interior is beautifully painted with biblical scenes, saints and Art Nouveau patterns.

The generously frescoed refectory attached to the church is a sight in itself. To get to the lower lavra from the upper lavra, find the path behind the Church of St Antoniy & St Feodosiy and head downhill under the flying buttress.