Abstract: This article examines the gradual realization of the need for preserving the relics of ancient times among the secular expert and representatives of the Orthodox clergy, as well as the steps made by the state and Russian Orthodox Church (as a part of government) regarding the conservation of ancient church monuments in the XIX – early XX centuries. The analysis of literary sources allows drawing a conclusion about the creation of a unified system of historic preservation, which was previously impeded by the Russian revolutionary events of 1917. The article names the causes that hindered the establishment of the national system of historic preservation. The scientific novelty is characterized by the analysis of the indicated sources and literature: from the periodical press of the XIX century until the contemporary research. The author introduces into the academic discourse the fact about the activity of unrenowned personalities of clerical hierarchy.