Snagov Monastery
Bucharest-Ilfov Region
Snagov Monastery is a historic medieval Orthodox monastery located on an island in the northern part of Lake Snagov, Romania. Established on the foundations of an ancient Thracian settlement, it is one of the oldest spiritual centers in the region, first documented in 1408 and rebuilt multiple times by rulers including Vlad Țepeș and Neagoe Basarab. The current church, built in 1521 by Neagoe Basarab, houses the tomb believed to be that of Vlad the Impaler, a significant figure in Romanian history. The monastery served as a royal necropolis and a pan-Orthodox cultural hub, especially during the 17th century under the leadership of Anthim the Iberian, who introduced a printing press producing books in multiple languages. Architectural highlights include the church, bell tower, and a historic fountain, with frescoes from different periods preserved inside. Despite damage from earthquakes in the 20th century, the monastery has been restored and remains a site of religious and historical importance, administered by the Romanian Patriarchate.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit during the late spring to early autumn months for pleasant weather and easier access. Tickets can be purchased on site, but booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the site's rich history. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Note that access to the island is limited, so planning transport ahead is advisable.
Interesting facts
- •The monastery is believed to be the burial site of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Dracula.
- •A prison built by Vlad III existed on the island until the mid-19th century, used for traitors and thieves.
- •Anthim the Iberian printed church books here in multiple languages, spreading Snagov's fame across Europe and Asia Minor.
- •Archaeological research revealed a monastic settlement from the 11th century predating the current monastery.
- •The imperial doors from the original 15th-century chapel were found submerged in the lake and are now displayed at the National Art Museum of Romania.
History
The monastery's origins trace back to the late 14th or early 15th century, with the first documentary mention in 1408.
Vladislav II built a chapel in 1453, later lost to the lake around 1600.
Vlad III (Vlad the Impaler) fortified the island in the mid-15th century, constructing a prison and defenses.
The current church was built in 1521 after an earthquake destroyed the original.
The monastery flourished culturally in the 17th century with a printing press established by Matei Basarab and led by Anthim the Iberian.
It served as a royal necropolis and a center of Orthodox spirituality through centuries, undergoing restorations after damage in the 20th century.
Place Guide
Church of Snagov Monastery1521
The central building constructed in 1521 by Neagoe Basarab, featuring preserved frescoes in the narthex from 1563 and later paintings from 1815 in the nave and altar. It serves as the main place of worship and houses the tomb slab believed to be Vlad the Impaler's.
Bell Tower
A historic bell tower located on the island, part of the surviving medieval structures of the monastery complex.
Fountain
An ancient fountain on the island, one of the few original features remaining from the monastery's earlier periods.
Island Fortifications and Prison Remainscirca 1456
Ruins and archaeological traces of the 15th-century prison and defensive walls built under Vlad III, including tunnels that reportedly connect the island to the mainland.
Contact
Phone: 0724 768 949
