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Căpriana Monastery
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Căpriana Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monastic complexes in Moldova, located in an easy on the eye valley within the Codru forest of the Strășeni District. First mentioned in an official charter in 1429, its foundation is associated with Prince Alexander the Good. Throughout its history, the monastery was a cultural center and a favorite of Moldovan rulers, including Stephen the Great, who rebuilt the main Church of the Assumption in 1470 following a military victory. The site features three distinct churches: the medieval Church of the Assumption, the mid-19th-century St. Nicholas Church, and the early 20th-century St. George Church. Forced to close in 1962 during the Soviet era, the monastery served as a sanatorium before being returned to the church in 1989. Extensive restorations in the early 2000s returned the site to its former glory, and it now serves as a major pilgrimage site and home to the tomb of Metropolitan Gavriil Bănulescu-Bodoni.
- Location: Moldova
- Top sights: Casa-Muzeu ,,Alexandr Puskin" · Conacul lui Zamfirache Ralli
- Nearby: Nisporeni (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 18 | 10 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 41 | 33 | 38 | 40 | 52 | 70 | 61 | 36 | 39 | 46 | 42 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The monastery is open to visitors and can be visited for free. The church and monastery grounds are accessible, but please respect the monks' peace.
Typical hours
The monastery is usually open daily from morning until evening. During services, access for tourists may be restricted.
Photography
Photography inside the church is usually allowed without flash. On the monastery grounds, you can photograph freely, but avoid taking pictures of monks.
Time needed
For visiting the monastery, you should allow about one hour. If you want to explore the surroundings and gardens, it can take up to two hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Curchi Monastery or the Șerpeni Bridgehead Memorial. The capital Chișinău is also a short drive away.
Getting there
The monastery is located about 40 kilometers northwest of Chișinău and is easily accessible by car. There is a parking lot in front of the monastery, and the road is in good condition.
Insider tip
Visit the monastery on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds. Take your time to admire the beautiful icons and frescoes in the church.
Geography
Facts
- First mentioned in 1429
- Founded by Alexander the Good
- Stephen the Great rebuilt it in 1470
- Complex includes three different churches
- Closed from 1962 to 1989
- Tomb of Metropolitan Gavriil Bănulescu-Bodoni
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Căpriana Monastery (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How old is Căpriana Monastery?
It was founded in the 15th century and is one of the oldest.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, shoulders and knees covered; women should wear headscarves.
Is there an entrance fee?
Entry is free, but donations for maintenance are welcome.
Can you eat there?
There is often a small shop with monastic products.
Is photography allowed inside?
Inside the churches, photography is often allowed only without flash.
Căpriana Monastery: where is it located?
Căpriana Monastery is located in Moldova.
Căpriana Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa-Muzeu,Alexandr Puskin", Conacul lui Zamfirache Ralli.
Căpriana Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Căpriana Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Căpriana Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monastic complexes in Moldova, located in an easy on the eye valley within the Codru forest of the Strășeni District.
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Strășeni
An industrial center in the heart of the Codru forest.
Nisporeni
Nisporeni is located in a hilly region in western Moldova.
Bucovăț
Bucovăț is a city in the Strășeni district of central Moldova.
Vatra
Vatra is a city located near Chișinău, situated on the shore of the Ghidighici Reservoir.
Cornești
Cornești is a city in the Ungheni district of western Moldova.
Durlești
Durlești is a suburb of Chișinău, part of the capital municipality.
Ialoveni
Ialoveni is located south of Chișinău and is world-famous for its wine production.
History & landmarks
Căpriana
One of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Moldova, located in the heart of the Codri forest, once the seat of the Metropolitan.
Cojușna
A significant wine-producing village near the capital, famous for its underground cellars and dessert wines.
Codru Highlands
The Codru Highlands form the geographical center of Moldova, characterized by highly fragmented hills and deep valleys.
Hâncu Monastery
A historic 17th-century monastery nestled deep within the forests of the Codru Nature Reserve.
Lăpușna Hills
The Lăpușna Hills are part of the southwestern Codru Highlands.
Nature
Codru Scientific Reserve
Founded in 1971, Codru Reserve is the oldest protected area in Moldova, preserving the central forest massifs of the country.
Nisporeni Hills
The Nisporeni Hills host the highest points of Moldova within the Codru massif.
Balanesti Hill
The highest point in Moldova rises in the central part of the country near Ungheni city.
Ghidighici Reservoir
The Ghidighici Reservoir, located northwest of Chișinău, is one of the largest artificial water bodies in the country.
Bic River
The Bic is a central river in Moldova that flows through the capital city, Chisinau.
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