St. Anthony of the Caves, also known as St. Anthony of Kiev, was a renowned monk and hermit who lived in the 11th century in the Kyivan Rus' Empire. He was one of the first monks to settle in the caves surrounding the Kyivo-Pechers’ka Lavra, also known as the Kiev Monastery of the Caves, a revered site overlooking the Dnieper River.
St. Anthony is venerated for his ascetic lifestyle and spiritual teachings and is widely considered the father of Slavic monasticism which has played an absolutely central role in the spirituality of the East for a millennium. Known for his rigorous fasting, prayer, and self-denial, St. Anthony became a symbol of devotion and piety. He dedicated his life to God, living in solitude within the caves, meditating, and engaging in constant prayer. Despite not actively preaching and his seclusion, St. Anthony was known for his wisdom and compassion, often providing advice and solace to those who sought him out.
The central church in the cave complex, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, was destroyed during World War II but later rebuilt. Today, the monastery complex serves as a place of prayer and a prominent museum. While many saints are buried there, St. Anthony's remains were never found. He died A.D. 1078 having spent 26 years in the cave, attaining the advanced age of 90 years.