Old Orhei Monastery
Central Moldova Region
Old Orhei Monastery is part of the larger Old Orhei archaeological complex located in central Moldova, approximately 60 km northeast of Chișinău. This site uniquely blends natural limestone formations with rich historical layers spanning from the Paleolithic era through the Iron Age, revealing traces of Trypillian civilization, Geto-Dacian fortresses, and medieval Moldavian settlements. The monastery itself, dating back to around the 14th century, is perched atop cliffs overlooking the Răut River and features cave chapels carved into the rock, still in use by Orthodox monks today. These caves contain Old Church Slavonic inscriptions from the 1690s, evidencing their role as refuges for hajduks fleeing Ottoman authorities. The complex also includes remnants of fortifications from the Golden Horde and Moldavian eras, as well as a bell tower built in 1890 and a nearby Orthodox church constructed in 1915. The monastery’s integration into the dramatic natural landscape and its continuous religious significance make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and pilgrims alike.
ヒント: The best time to visit Old Orhei Monastery is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and the river views are most scenic. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear as the terrain involves climbing steps carved into limestone cliffs. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours provide valuable historical context and enhance the experience of the cave chapels and archaeological ruins.
興味深い事実
- •Old Orhei contains archaeological layers from the Paleolithic, Eneolithic, and Iron Age periods.
- •The cave monastery features Old Church Slavonic inscriptions from the 1690s linked to hajduks hiding from Ottoman authorities.
- •A twenty-meter tunnel was carved in 1821 to create a new entrance to the cave monastery.
- •The site includes remnants of a Golden Horde fortress known as Shehr al-Jedid or Yangi-Shehr from the 14th century.
- •The monastery’s bell tower was constructed in 1890, and a new Orthodox church nearby was built in 1915.
歴史
The Old Orhei site has been inhabited since the Paleolithic period, with archaeological evidence of the Trypillian culture and Geto-Dacian fortresses dating from the 6th to 1st centuries BC.
In the 14th century, the Golden Horde established a fortress called Shehr al-Jedid here, followed by a Moldavian fortification between the 14th and 16th centuries.
The Orthodox cave monastery was founded around the 14th century and expanded during the Middle Ages as monks carved additional chapels and cells into the cliffs to escape frequent Tatar raids.
A twenty-meter tunnel was cut in 1821 to create a new entrance, and a bell tower was added in 1890.
In 1915, a new Orthodox church was built nearby, marking a shift in the monastery’s focal point.
場所ガイド
Cave Monastery "Peștera"14th century
The oldest Orthodox cave monastery situated 60 meters above the Răut River, marked by a bell tower built later. It comprises a church with an altar, a group of monks' cells, and corridors with stairs leading down to the river.
Bell Tower1890
Built in 1890 near the entrance of the cave monastery, the bell tower is a prominent landmark visible from afar and signifies the religious importance of the site.
Orthodox Church near the Monastery1915
Constructed in 1915 near the cave monastery, this church became the new religious center, reducing the monastery’s previous central role.
連絡先
電話: 0235 56 005