History of the formation of the monasteries of the Altai Spiritual Mission and their economic activities

the Altai Spiritual Mission, founded in the early 19th century, became a key element in the spread of Orthodoxy in the region. It not only provided spiritual education, but also contributed to the economic development of the region, which was clearly demonstrated in the creation of monasteries that became centers of cultural and economic life. Throughout the historical period, monasticism was characterized by missionary activity. With the annexation of Western Siberia in the 17th century, a new missionary direction opened up for the Russian Orthodox Church – the spread of Orthodox culture and the development of the newly annexed territory. The monasteries of the Altai Spiritual Mission began to actively develop economic and business activities, which significantly influenced the life of the region. The monasteries not only provided spiritual education, but also actively introduced various economic practices, which made them important subjects of economic interaction. The monasteries received land plots that they used for agriculture. Livestock breeding also played an important role in the activities of the monasteries. Over time, they began to develop various craft industries, produced and sold church utensils, icons, and various household items. They established trade with other regions of Russia and even neighboring countries.

Siberia, Altai district, monastery, cloister, history