Chronic pancreatitis (CP) is a challenging problem in modern gastroenterology because its multifaceted character makes it difficult to choose the optimal therapeutic strategy. The incidence of CP grows continuously throughout the world. However, the comprehensive algorithms for the treatment of patients presenting with chronic pancreatitis remain to be developed. The present paper was designed to highlight the main classifications of CP with special reference to their advantages and disadvantages. It appears that the existing classifications based on the analysis of the results of numerous studies and observations allow clinicians no more than just to plan switching to the etiotropic treatment. We believe that modern classification of CP must take into consideration etiological data and clinical manifestations of the disease to enable physicians to choose the optimal therapeutic strategy and methods of control of this disease.