Kachi-Kalion

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Kachi-Kalion is a medieval cave monastery located in the Crimean Peninsula, Ukraine.

### Location

The monastery is situated in the valley of the Kachi River, between the villages of Preduschennoye and Bastanovka, within the Bakhchisarai district. It is nestled in the rocks of the Inner Mountain Range above the Bakhchisarai-Sinapnoe road.

### Name

The name "Kachi-Kalion" or "Camilo's Tooth" has its origins in the Spanish word "gallon," which was borrowed into the Greek language by Mediterranean coastal towns. The term originally referred to a ship with a large sail, and is also associated with the ancient Greek word "Gallos," meaning "Shark." This name may have been inspired by the shape of the cave town, resembling a large ship.

### General Description

The Kachi-Kalion monastery features 250 artificial caves of varying ages and purposes. These include domestic, manufacturing, housing, and church ritual spaces, carved primarily from the rock face.

### History

#### Foundation in Byzantium

The formation of the cave monastery is believed to have occurred in the VIII century, although an exact date is unknown. The presence of preserved Greek crosses in the caves suggests a strong Byzantine influence during this period.

#### Medieval Period

Kachi-Kalion continued to exist until the eviction of Christians from Crimea in 1778. During its medieval period, the monastery was likely an important center for Christian worship and community.

#### Preservation and Protection

Today, Kachi-Kalion is included within the Bakhchisarai Historical and Cultural Reserve, as part of the Landscape and Recreational Park of regional importance of the Republic of Crimea "Bakhchisarai".