Capriana Monastery
Chisinau Region
Căpriana Monastery, located about 40 km northwest of Chișinău in Moldova, is one of the country's oldest and most significant monastic sites. Founded in medieval Moldavia and first documented in 1429, it was granted royal monastery status by Alexander the Good. The monastery is set in the picturesque Codrii Lăpușnei forest, offering a tranquil spiritual retreat surrounded by nature. It has undergone several restorations, notably between 1542 and 1545 under Petru Rareș. The complex includes three churches: the Church of the Dormition, which is the oldest standing church in Moldova built in the Moldavian style during the late 15th century; the 19th-century Church of St. Nicholas; and the 20th-century winter Church of St. George built in a Neo-Byzantine style. The Church of the Dormition also houses the tomb of Metropolitan Gavril Bănulescu-Bodoni, adding to its religious significance. The monastery's architecture and serene environment make it a unique cultural and spiritual landmark in Moldova.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during spring or early autumn for pleasant weather and to experience the monastery's peaceful forest setting. Advance ticket purchase is not mandatory but may be recommended during religious holidays or weekends to avoid crowds. Modest dress is appropriate for visiting the sacred site. Visitors can explore the churches and grounds independently, with guided tours sometimes available for deeper historical context.
Interesting facts
- •The Church of the Dormition is the oldest extant church in Moldova, built in the Moldavian style between 1491 and 1496.
- •The winter Church of St. George was constructed in 1903 in Neo-Byzantine style during the Bessarabia Governorate period.
- •Metropolitan Gavril Bănulescu-Bodoni, an important religious figure, is buried within the Church of the Dormition.
History
The earliest known reference to Căpriana Monastery dates back to 1429 when it was granted royal monastery status by Moldavian ruler Alexander the Good, who endowed it to his wife, Princess Marena.
The monastery experienced decline but was rebuilt between 1542 and 1545 under the patronage of Petru Rareș.
Over the centuries, it expanded with additional churches constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries, reflecting various architectural styles and the evolving religious significance of the site.
Place Guide
Church of the Dormition1491-1496
The oldest church on site, built in stone between 1491 and 1496 in traditional Moldavian style. It serves as a summer church and contains the tomb of Metropolitan Gavril Bănulescu-Bodoni, making it a key spiritual and historical landmark at the monastery.
Church of St. Nicholas19th century
A 19th-century church dedicated to St. Nicholas, representing the continued religious development of the monastery in the post-medieval period.
Winter Church of St. George1903
Built in 1903, this church features Neo-Byzantine architectural style and was constructed during the Bessarabia Governorate era, serving as the winter place of worship at the monastery.
Contact
Phone: 0237 68 321
