• Українська
open open
терношорська лада

Ternoshora Lada

A sacred place of power in the Carpathians

Explore
arrow
Get Inspired

About Ternoshorska Lada

терношорська лада

Historical Landmark

The rock complex on the southern slope of Mount Ternoshora 990 m), near the Carpathian village of Snidavka (Bezulka hamlet), is an ancient pagan sanctuary and observatory of our ancestors. The highlanders of the past worshipped stones. They gave them human or animal forms, moved them, oriented them toward cardinal directions, and encoded within their understanding of the universe. 

Tens of thousands of years ago, the locals inscribed their sacred knowledge about the annual solar cycle, the sky and the earth, the life-giving bond of male and female energies, and the right time to celebrate beginning of the New Year or welcome the newborn sun. Thus, Ternoshora Lada became a natural temple for our ancestors.

Place of Power 

Scientists have confirmed that our ancestors did not choose sites for sanctuaries and temples at random – they selected locations at the intersections of the Earth’s energy lines. Here, you enter a space of high vibrations that positively influence your state of being and health. Many visitors to Lada confirm that this place holds a special power. 

Tune into your feelings: a surge of energy or drowsiness, unusual feelings in the body, calmness (or its opposite) – these are ways to receive answers to your questions, intentions, dreams, or simply to express gratitude to the space and higher forces for all that you have. This is what our ancestors did. This is how we revive our ancient tradition – to celebrate life in places of power, and beyond.

терношорська лада
терношорська лада

Carpathian Serenity 

The Journey to the Sanctuary 

The path to the sanctuary is a joy in itself. On your way to Lada, you’ll cross gentle mountain streams, breathe in the spirit of the Carpathian forest, feel the cool mist of the Ternoshora Huk waterfall, and refresh yourself in the Nymphs’ Pool. 

The Bezulka River’s Oval Terrace 

The oval terrace of the Bezulka River, which flows along the southern slope of Ternoshorska Lada, offers a breathtaking view. According to researchers, it was formed approximately 11,000 years ago. Along its path, the river carved into the mountain wall what is known as the Breakthrough Gates – a natural formation that looks like a mystical passage into another world. Beyond these gates begin the sacred realms of Lada.

background
pas-1

Created
by humans

The 10.4-meter figure of Lada was shaped
by human hands approximately 40,000 years ago

pas-2

Mystery
for Scientists

To this day, scientists remain puzzled by how
the 8-ton head of the figure was placed

pas-3

Legend
of New Life

According to legend, Lada helps
bring new life into the world

pas-4

Astronomical
Sanctuary

Ternoshorа Lada is considered an astronomical
sanctuary, interconnected with other places
of power throughout the Carpathians

pas-5

Energy
Site

The sanctuary is regarded as one of the most powerful
places of spiritual energy in Ukraine

Gallery

We’ve curated a collection of photographs that capture the warm beauty and gentle charm of Ternoshora Lada
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery
gallery

Legend
of New Life

We’ve curated a collection of photographs that capture the warm beauty and gentle charm of Ternoshora Lada

Read more
терношорська лада

Goddess Lada 

The most famous megalith of the sanctuary is a 10-meter-tall anthropomorphic figure, associated with the Great Primordial Mother – the goddess Lada. She is depicted with broad feminine hips, a pregnant belly, milk-filled breasts, her right hand resting between chest and womb, a straight back, and a head with four faces gazing toward the four cardinal directions. The head rests on three supporting legs, with the neck serving as a pedestal that transitions into a square-shaped neck ornament. Slightly leaning back, the woman gazes toward the east. 

Researchers believe that the figure’s posture and the shape of her belly indicate that this was an ancient astronomical observatory. As noted by scholar Lyubomyr Derzhypilsky in his book, the apex of the triangular belly and the head are aligned with the point of sunrise at the equinox, while the angle between the left and right planes of the belly encompasses the sector where the sun rises throughout the year. Thus, Lada – pregnant with the sun – seems to embrace the space where the sun is born.

The Solar Disc 

At the foot of the Ternoshora Sanctuary lies a massive stone circle, 8 meters in diameter, made of two parts and shaped by human hands into a perfect ring – the symbol of the sun god. Upon closer inspection, the chips and grooves on its surface reveal the face of a lion: narrowed eyes, a broad nose, and even a discernible mane. In many cultures, the lion represents the supreme celestial body. This lion gazes southward, squinting as the bright sun shines into its eyes throughout the year – even in winter. 

Above the solar disc is a small cave, symbolizing the feminine womb, and above that stands a stone figure of a pregnant woman. She looks toward the horizon where, each year in late December, the sun pauses. Her hand rests in the familiar gesture of expectant mothers – on her belly, just below the chest. 

This story carved in stone tells the legend of how, each year, when the first stars of the constellation of Perun (Sagittarius) appear, the goddess Lada gives birth to the new Sun – Bozhych-Kolyada, the Sun of the Winter Solstice. Thus, Day (BiloBog) triumphs over Night (ChornoBog). From this point, the Sun begins its journey toward summer. 

терношорська лада
терношорська лада

The Passage and the Chthonic Serpent 

A narrow passage (about 50 cm wide) between two rocks is also part of the legend. At the exit of this rocky crevice lurks a serpent – a two-meter stone shaped like the head of a dragon-serpent, with an open mouth and a clearly defined left eye. Above this otherworldly creature looms a massive rock, scorched by fire. 

According to researcher Professor Mykola Vasylovych Kugutyak, this passage is a vital element of the mythological system of the Ternoshorа Sanctuary. It is yet another legend carved in stone, telling how each day the god of the sky – the Sun – descends into the underworld, battles the serpent, and triumphs. 

There is a belief that women enter the passage from the northern side, while men enter from the opposite direction. Here, in the shelter of ancient rocks, one can make a wish or create a personal ritual – for in such charged places, our thoughts and desires acquire extraordinary power. In mythology, passages symbolize transition: from the ordinary to the sacred, beyond the bounds of time and space – a gateway to change and profound transformation.

Blog

We’re collecting articles from sanctuary researchers to help you explore the history and deeper meanings of this sacred place

blog
Yuliia Vonsovytch • 1 August 2025 Energy Recharge Center 

The people of this land – and later, our distant ancestors – perceived, with both Mind and Heart, the many ways in which divine energy manifests. They knew how to structure it, see it as alive, interact with it, and hold the State. They lived across all dimensions simultaneously:  • In Yav – our visible…

blog
Nastia Tiutiunnyk • 5 August 2025 Lada – A Cultural-Historical Portal to the Past 

I believe in places of power – though it’s a deeply personal experience. For some, their place of strength is at their grandmother’s village, for others it’s by the sea, and some even recharge on Khreshchatyk (one of the busiest streets in Kyiv*). Not everyone needs a “prayed-over” site to feel something special.  Ternoshorа Lada…

blog
Liubomyr Derzhypilskyi • 5 October 2024 Ternoshorа Calendar Sanctuary 

Numerous academic and popular publications explore the Ternoshorа Sanctuary – also known as Ternoshorа Lada, Dovbush’s Head, or simply “the Stone”. One of the first to suggest that the sanctuary was dedicated to the Woman (Mother, Grandmother) was S. Pushyk, who linked local toponyms such as Babyn, Velykyi and Malyi Rozhen to the archetype of…

Mini-Documentary on Lada

We created this video to give you an up-close and detailed view of the Ternoshorа Sanctuary

Our Partners

Затишок ЖИВА

Hotel for relaxation and unity with nature "Zatyshok ZHYVA"

Снідавка - чисте село

Environmental NGO

Visitor Reviews
of the Ternoshorа Sanctuary

Serhii, Engineer, Kyiv
“A creation that defies all logic of construction”

As a practical man, as an engineer, I was struck by the mastery shown by nature or – perhaps a supernatural force – that created this stone structure. How??? There is no answer. But it is a fact! Things that shuoldn’t be joined are connected, and constructions that defy logic have been made. One is left in awe, admiration, and a desire for answers, even without hope of receiving them. 

It’s truly magnificent!

Anna, Kyiv
“A Feeling of Grandeur and Gentleness” 

My first encounter with Lada happened in May. I was walking toward the place  She had chosen to dwell, and I felt that the location was no accident))) I knew I needed time to attune myself for the meeting, so the lush green thickets, the streams, the gentle ups and downs seemed to prepare the canvas… and now She would appear. Of course, I was the one who was walking—She patiently waited. 

I arrived! A strange feeling of grandeur and gentleness. A little frightening yet calming at the same time. 

These energies cannot be describe – they must be felt. And for each person, it’s a unique vibration, a personal resonance. 

I remember Her with warmth, with the feeling I received. I want to return. 

I bow to your greatness, Lada))

Oksana, Kyiv
“Far Older and Wiser Than We Can Comprehend” 

I came to Lada by chance. But as with everything in life – chance is never truly random. 

To put it simply: a powerful ancient force. When you touch the stones, you feel that this is something far older and wiser than we can comprehend. A quiet, flowing stream of underground energy and wisdom. And right at this point, it finds its way to the surface. 

If you allow yourself to open up to it, change is inevitable. Lada cleanses, releases the old, and makes space for the new to be born. 

I’m glad that such places are coming back to life, and that people have the chance to remember what they are truly part of.

Vika, founder of the “Zhyva Khata” project, Verkhovyna
“Some come here to conceive, others to heal” 

For me, Ternoshorа Lada is a place wrapped in legends. Some come here to conceive, others to heal. I’ve visited more than once, and each time I discover something new. 

What captivated me most was the natural pool along the path to Lada. The first time I bathed there, I felt like a Goddess. 

And in winter – you can see enormous icicles! And that waterfall… it’s so beautiful! You arrive, admire, bathe, and with freshly cleansed thoughts and body, you walk to bow before the Pregnant Woman.

Olesia, founder of the brand Ptashkin Sad, Kyiv
“It felt like I experienced being born again” 

Friends once told me about Lada as a feminine place of power. I’ve been there three times, and each visit was a profound experience of reconnecting with my feminine essence – my wild nature. 

The third visit was especially transformative. I felt powerful sensations as I passed through the narrow crevice between the rocks. It was a difficult passage. My mother had a hard labor when I was born – long and painful – and as I moved through Lada’s monoliths, it felt as though I was reliving that birth. 

But in the end, I felt as if a lost part of me had returned. Later, I learned that those who know such things associate this crevice with the birth canal. 

I truly hope that the traditions and power of this place continue to be revived, and that more women – those who wish to bring new life into the world or reclaim their feminine strength – can come and experience it.

Zhenia, military serviceman, Chernivtsi
“There’s a place at Lada where I instantly feel warmth and peace” 

I once heard from an energy therapist that the most powerful energetic spot at Lada is the Sun-Lion – a massive round stone at the base of the sanctuary. And it’s true, something special happens there. But I believe everyone finds their own favorite corner at Lada. 

After several visits, I’ve also found my own spot – the place where I instantly feel warmth and peace. Now I return from time to time to recharge and seek answers to pressing questions. And after each visit, I always receive an answer – through people, events, or situations. 

It feels like magic. 

Ania, Head of the Tourist Information Center, Kosiv
“The vibrations of this place work regardless of belief” 

Going to the “Mother” means going to Lada. To go to the “Father” means going to the Painted Stone (Pysanyi Kamin)! I’ve heard this from tourists and women’s retreat groups… and I completely agree! I feel drawn to Ternoshorа Lada – I have to visit it at least four times a year, or I start to feel “withdrawal”. 

There have been moments of healing in the Nymphs’ Bath, and even the birth of my true Self. 

This is a place that reveals itself differently to everyone, but its vibrations work regardless of belief. That’s the law of energy. It’s already been proven that “magic” is simply physics we haven’t fully explained yet. 

One undeniable plus is that the route is easy yet beautiful, crossing a river with stunning views. And as a bonus – you meet kindred spirits, soul-aligned companions 🙌 

So… welcome to Lada!

Zoriana, energy therapist and channeler, Ivano-Frankivsk
“There is a birthing energy here – and it’s not only about children, but also about projects” 

Lada is a very special place for me. As an energy therapist, I lead deep practices and feel these energetic processes within myself. I experience Lada as a space of feminine energy – motherhood, unity, co-creation. There’s a sense of peace, harmony, and fullness. 

It’s the energy of birth – and not only of children, but of projects, visions, and new paths. This is a place where you reclaim your creative power, the one we all carry from the moment we’re born. At Lada, this energy awakens, and you can create with ease, with freedom, without worrying how others might react. It’s a union with nature – and with your own inner essence. 

I led a channeling practice at Lada, and the women who joined me shared how deeply transformative it was – each of them felt a powerful inner strength.

Oksana, yoga master and photographer, Ivano-Frankivsk
“Lada is one of my favorite photo locations” 

Ternoshorа Lada is a truly special place for me. I’m an empathic, sensitive, creative person, and I feel a deep pull toward places of power. Each time I come here, I experience a cleansing – followed by a quiet renewal. I’m able to be fully present, to hear myself, to sense the forest’s scent more deeply, the sounds of nature, and my true desires – not those shaped by society or the mind, but those that come from the heart. 

I wholeheartedly recommend this place to women: come, open your heart, feel the strength that lives here. Don’t analyze, don’t overthink – just pause, breathe deeply, and feel what unfolds. 

With 15 years of experience, I can say that Lada is one of my favorite photo locations. Rarely have I found such a unique combination in one place—water, stones, forest, and authentic wooden huts. The air, the energy, the atmosphere create a completely different state of being, and the images that emerge are deeper, more genuine.

Olena, graphic designer, Kosiv
“I felt that Lada was ready to fulfill all my dreams – but through my own hands” 

I immediately felt how this powerful energetic place threads through my thoughts, doubts, and desires like a transparent thread. Everything hidden within becomes visible – ready to be rethought, right here and now. You begin to hear yourself more clearly. 

The first time, I was afraid to walk through the passage – but I deeply wanted to make a wish. The passage can be disorienting, yet it calls you to step through. There, I paused and felt Lada speak: “I’m ready to fulfill your wishes – but are you ready?” 

In that moment, I felt like the center of the unfolding events. I understood that I must realize my dreams myselfand Lada is ready to offer the energy, strength, and confidence. She illuminates the path, and everything I once doubted becomes clear and simple. 

I truly recommend visiting Lada if you’re facing doubts or difficult life questions – this is a place where clarity begins.

Olia, artist and photographer, Chernihiv
“On the way to Lada, we had wild and joyful adventures” 

I came to the Carpathians with my boyfriend to unwind a bit, and our friends led us to Lada. It was spring, rain had fallen, and the rivers swelled with mountain water – at some points, my boyfriend had to carry me in his arms. But those were such fun, “wild” adventures! Especially since the path to Lada is simple and pleasant. 

The legends our local friends told us about this place of power were truly beautiful. 

The views are stunning – ancient forests all around – and you feel as if you’re standing in the very heart of untouched Carpathian nature. 

I definitely want to return again, this time in summer.

Oksana, UI/UX Designer, Kyiv
“There’s a calm here that embraces you from the very first moment” 

This spring, I visited Ternoshorа Lada for the first time. 

What struck me most was the energy of the place. There was a calm that embraced me from the very first moment. I felt inner balance, even after arriving from the noise and chaos of everyday life. It was a space where I could simply be myself, without words or roles. 

It was easy to be alone with my thoughts and just exhale. 

Lada helped me find answers to questions that had been troubling me for a long time. This place inspired me to reconnect with nature, to feel its strength and support. 

I wholeheartedly recommend Ternoshorа Lada to anyone who dreams of spending time alone, rediscovering inner peace, and receiving answers to the questions that live in your heart. 🌿

Olia, business coach, Kyiv
“Here I feel stronger – mentally and physically” 

Somehow, everything unnecessary gets cut away automatically here. You can simply be in this place – no vision boards, no goals, no whirlwind of thoughts. Maybe it’s the sanctuary, or maybe it’s just the mountains and Carpathian nature – but here, it’s easier to focus on what matters, easier to say “no,” to set priorities. In the drive and noise of Kyiv, that’s much harder to do. 

I felt the power of this place not only mentally, but physically. I had more strength – I could walk longer, climb higher, descend deeper, and my breath stayed steady. 

And my body awakened powerfully here – all tactile sensations intensified: touching the rough stone, walking barefoot on the earth, leaning against the cool rock. 

Such unforgettable sensations.

Ira, Assistant Director at FSG Group, Kyiv
“You can truly feel the powerful energy at Lada” 

I’ve been to Lada twice. The first time, I was simply hiking – knowing nothing about the place. But even then, I was struck by the massive monoliths rising in the middle of the forest. 

The second time, I discovered Lada as a place of power. A friend gave me a short tour and shared the meaning, history, and legends of the site. I’ve visited various sacred places in different countries, but I didn’t always feel the energy. At Lada, you truly do. 

I hope that in time, the tourist infrastructure will develop – perhaps with QR codes linking to information pages. I’d love for people who come here to see not just a beautiful location, but to learn about its cultural and historical significance, and to feel its strength.

Lusia, Marketing Manager at SkyUp Airlines, Kyiv
“I decided this journey to Lada would be my release from the old and unnecessary” 

I made a personal decision: this journey to Lada would symbolize cleansing, renewal, and letting go of what no longer serves me. 

It felt amazing to climb through the crevice between the rocks, holding the thought that I was being reborn. Then to sit quietly on a stone, meditate, and take in the magical view. 

And to finish the journey by bathing in a mountain river, bare and free – surrounded by dear women. 

Such a powerful surge of energy!

Olena, founder of the Tarnavsky House project, Kosiv
“Mountain monoliths hold powerful energy – they’ve witnessed much in this world” 

Lada was one of the first places I visited on my journey through this region. I was amazed to learn that this stone massif has a history spanning thousands of years. The site is surrounded by legends, and many women come here to make wishes. 

I appreciate that the sanctuary is accessible – it’s easy to reach, and from its summit, the view is breathtaking. 

It’s best to come on weekdays or early in the mornig – here are fewer tourists, and you have a better chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains, the rustling trees, and the cool breeze. 

But for me, any mountain monolith holds powerful energy. They’ve existed for millions of years and have witnessed so much of the world.

Yulia, Marketing Specialist, Kosiv
“Our ancestors encoded their worldview, beliefs, and values into this sanctuary” 

No matter what state I’m in when I come to Lada, I always find peace. I always feel the urge to take off my shoes – to remove the barriers between myself and the earth. 

One of my personal rituals on the way to Lada is immersing myself in the Nymphs’ Bath behind the Ternoshorа Huk waterfall. It feels like a necessary cleansing before fully receiving the power of this place. 

It’s helpful when visitors read a bit about Ternoshorа Lada beforehand – then it no longer feels like just a pile of interesting stones. 

Our ancestors encoded their worldview, their faith, and their values into this sanctuary. 

It’s both fascinating and important to uncover them.

Inna, founder of the “Storizhna Khata” project, Richka village
“Lada helped us make the right choice” 

Once, my future husband and I were searching in the mountains for an old house – to move away from the big city. And Lada gave us a sign – a tiny key we found near her stones. 

That’s how she helped us make the right choice. 

And later, my husband proposed to me at Ternoshorа Lada. 

So for me, this place holds special meaning and power.

Nastia, founder of “Zatyshok ZHYVA,” Snidavka village
“Lada is the perfect place to feel the path that leads inward” 

When I’m at Lada, I feel “symptoms” that signal a shift in energy. First of all, my thoughts stop – I don’t want to think or worry about anything. I enter a state of relaxation and inner focus, attuned to my sensations. I simply want to observe. 

For me, it’s deeply meaningful to connect with a symbol of strength created by the faith and good intentions of our ancestors. I feel united with those ancient people who believed in divine creative energy – and I feel myself entering the field of like-minded souls. 

There’s a living energy of creation here, through which you can revive and manifest your wishes and intentions. 

Lada is the perfect place to feel the path that leads inward.

терношорська лада