Cave Monastery: A Spiritual Sanctuary in the Moldovan Cliffs
Explore the ancient Cave Monastery in Butuceni, Moldova, a unique spiritual and historical site carved into stunning limestone cliffs.
The Cave Monastery, also known as Peștera Monastery, is a 15th-century Orthodox monastic complex carved into the limestone cliffs near Butuceni village in Moldova. This historical site features a church and monastic cells hewn directly into the rock, offering a glimpse into the lives of monks who sought refuge and practiced their faith in this serene location.
A brief summary to Cave Monastery
- Butuceni, MD
- +37323556005
- Visit website
Local tips
- Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; avoid shorts and tank tops. Women should cover their heads when entering the church.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the caves and surrounding trails.
- Check the marshrutka (minibus) schedule in advance if using public transport, as the schedule can be infrequent.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the river valley from atop the cliffs.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Chișinău, take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Central Bus Station to Butuceni or Trebujeni. Buses leave approximately every 30 minutes. A ticket costs around 46 MDL. From the bus stop in Butuceni, walk approximately 10 minutes along the marked path to the monastery. If you arrive in Trebujeni, the walk to the monastery is about 30 minutes. Check the return schedule in advance.
-
Taxi
Taxis can be hired from Chișinău directly to Orheiul Vechi. The journey takes approximately one hour. Use the YandexGo app or call a local taxi service. Expect to pay around 300-400 MDL for a one-way trip.
-
Walking
Once in Butuceni, follow the main road through the village. Look for signs directing you to the Cave Monastery. The walk from the village center to the monastery entrance is approximately 10-15 minutes. The path is unpaved but relatively flat.
Discover more about Cave Monastery
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Geto-Dacian Monument
0.5 km
Explore the ancient Geto-Dacian Monument in Butuceni, Moldova, and step back in time to discover the rich history of this archaeological site.
Paragliding Site
0.9 km
Soar above Criuleni, Moldova, and experience the breathtaking beauty of the countryside from a unique paragliding perspective.
Old Orhei. Paragliding Site
0.9 km
Experience the thrill of flight amidst the ancient wonders of Old Orhei, Moldova – a unique blend of history and adventure.
Resedinta Rotundu
1.1 km
Experience authentic Moldovan hospitality at Resedinta Rotundu in Butuceni, your gateway to the historic Orheiul Vechi and stunning natural landscapes.
Старый Орхей
1.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Old Orhei, a nature preserve in Moldova that captivates with its beauty and cultural heritage.
Старый Орхей
1.4 km
Discover Moldova's ancient heart at Old Orhei: Explore cave monasteries, dramatic landscapes, and centuries of history in this captivating cultural reserve.
Vila Roz
1.5 km
Experience Moldovan hospitality at Vila Roz, a charming guesthouse near Old Orhei, offering traditional cuisine and a tranquil rose garden retreat.
Tatar Bath Ruins
1.6 km
Explore Moldova's Tatar Bath Ruins: An open-air museum revealing the fascinating history and cultural significance of a 14th-century bath complex.
Caves Viewpoint
1.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and ancient history at Caves Viewpoint, a must-see destination in Moldova's Orheiul Vechi region.
Manor of the Balioz family
8.5 km
Discover the architectural elegance and historical charm of the Balioz Family Manor in Ivancea, a cultural gem in the heart of Moldova.
Conacul familiei Bogdasarov
12.0 km
Explore the historic Conacul familiei Bogdasarov in Orhei, Moldova - a serene retreat steeped in culture, nature, and rich heritage for every traveler.
Panorama orașului Orhei
13.1 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Orheiul Vechi from this hilltop viewpoint, where nature and history converge in Moldova's heartland.
Orhei Town Hall
13.5 km
Discover Orhei Town Hall, a landmark embodying Moldova's heritage and community spirit, in the heart of a historically rich town.
St. Dumitru Church
13.6 km
Discover the historic St. Dumitru Church in Orhei, Moldova, showcasing Byzantine architecture and rich religious art from the 17th century.
Codru
13.6 km
Experience a touch of Soviet nostalgia at Codru Hotel, your gateway to exploring Orhei's cultural and natural treasures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bosie Cave Monastery
0.0 km
Explore the ancient Bosie Cave Monastery, a sacred site in Moldova that combines spirituality, history, and breathtaking natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.
Eco-Resort Butuceni
0.1 km
Experience the heart of Moldova at Eco-Resort Butuceni, where authentic cuisine meets breathtaking nature in a tranquil setting.
Butuceni
0.2 km
Explore Butuceni, Moldova: A hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture awaits every traveler.
Old Farm Butuceni
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of rural Moldova at Old Farm Butuceni, where tradition meets tranquility in the heart of nature.
Butuceni Ethnography Museum
0.2 km
Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Moldova at the Butuceni Ethnography Museum, where tradition and history come alive.
Old Orhei
0.2 km
Explore Old Orhei, a captivating archaeological site in Moldova, where history meets breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
St. Mary's Church
0.3 km
Explore the spiritual beauty and architectural charm of St. Mary's Church in Butuceni, Moldova, a serene Eastern Orthodox gem steeped in history.
Traditional Peasant House
0.3 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Moldova at the Traditional Peasant House, a heritage museum showcasing authentic rural life and traditions.
Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Natural Reserve
0.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich archaeological heritage of Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Natural Reserve in Moldova, a perfect blend of nature and history.
Ruine
0.8 km
Explore the Ruine of Butuceni, a captivating historical landmark that blends rich heritage with breathtaking natural beauty in Moldova.
Viewpoint towards Old Orhei
0.9 km
Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Old Orhei Viewpoint in Moldova – a must-visit for every traveler.
Old Orhei Fort
0.9 km
Experience the rich history and breathtaking views at Old Orhei Fort, a mesmerizing blend of nature and heritage in Moldova.
Trebujeni Viewpoint
0.9 km
Discover the stunning Trebujeni Viewpoint in Moldova, offering breathtaking views of the Raut River and captivating landscapes.
Medieval Church Remains
0.9 km
Explore the Medieval Church Remains in Moldova's Orhei Vechi, a historical landmark that captures the essence of ancient architecture and natural beauty.
Trebujeni
1.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Trebujeni, a hidden gem in Moldova perfect for immersive travel experiences.
Essential places to dine
Agro Pensiunea Butuceni
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Moldova at Agro Pensiunea Butuceni – where authentic village life meets warm hospitality amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Villa Etnica
0.4 km
Discover authentic Moldovan cuisine at Villa Etnica in Butuceni - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning landscapes.
AgroPensiunea La Popas
0.5 km
Experience authentic Moldavian cuisine at AgroPensiunea La Popas in scenic Butuceni - a culinary gem surrounded by nature.
Epoca de Piatră
2.6 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Epoca de Piatră in Brăneşti – where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
Magazinul LoryGel
2.9 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Magazinul LoryGel, a cozy restaurant offering delightful local dishes in Maşcăuţi.
BLUE RIVER
9.5 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Blue River – where flavor meets tradition in Holercani.
Safari
11.7 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Safari Restaurant in Orhei - where tradition meets taste in a delightful setting.
Casa Sobarului
12.0 km
Discover authentic Romanian cuisine at Casa Sobarului in Molovata with stunning river views and warm hospitality.
Doi Haiduci
12.2 km
Experience authentic Romanian cuisine and family-friendly hospitality at Doi Haiduci in picturesque Moldova.
Casa Porumbeilor
13.3 km
Discover authentic Moldovan flavors at Casa Porumbeilor in Orhei – where tradition meets taste.
Restaurantul "Primăvara"
13.4 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Restaurantul 'Primăvara' in Orhei - where tradition meets taste.
Select Lounge
13.5 km
Discover Select Lounge in Orhei - where Moldovan flavors meet contemporary dining excellence.
SAMURAI SUSHI & ROLLS TERRACE Orhei
13.5 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Samurai Sushi & Rolls Terrace in Orhei—where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Magazin Bisericesc Suvenire
0.3 km
Explore the unique church supply store in Butuceni, Moldova, offering religious artifacts and souvenirs that reflect the country's rich spiritual culture.
DescOperă
0.6 km
Experience the magic of arts and nature at the DescOperă Festival in Butuceni, Moldova, where creativity meets breathtaking landscapes.
Valea Stancii
1.1 km
Experience the serene beauty of Valea Stancii, a perfect blend of nature, hospitality, and exquisite dining in the heart of Moldova.
Restaurant ”de Vis”
1.1 km
Discover the flavors of Moldova at Restaurant 'de Vis' in Trebujeni, where culinary excellence meets breathtaking views.
Casa din Lunca Pension
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Trebujeni at Casa din Lunca, a cozy bed & breakfast offering delicious traditional Moldovan cuisine and warm hospitality.
Agro Pensiunea Casa Verde
1.6 km
Experience a serene getaway at Agro Pensiunea Casa Verde in Trebujeni, Moldova, where nature meets comfort in a rustic setting.
Casa de sub Stinca Pension
1.6 km
Experience the charm of Moldova at Casa de sub Stinca Pension in Trebujeni, where tradition meets comfort amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Eco Vila
3.9 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Eco Vila in Old Orhei, Moldova, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Gramma
8.1 km
Explore Hîrtopul Mare with ease at Gramma, your convenient store for local snacks and essentials, open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM.
Busuioc Ion
9.0 km
Discover the charm of Moldovan culture at Busuioc Ion, your go-to store for unique local products in Hîrtopul Mare.
Magazin MARKET
11.3 km
Discover the charm of Magazin MARKET in Ohrincea, your essential convenience store for local snacks and travel needs.
Relax
12.3 km
Experience the essence of Moldovan culture at Relax, a charming store in Orhei offering unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Dumbrava
13.0 km
Explore Dumbrava in Orhei, Moldova, for a unique shopping experience filled with local crafts and authentic flavors that reflect the region's rich culture.
La Costin
13.1 km
Discover the charm of Moldovan craftsmanship at La Costin, a boutique in Orhei showcasing unique local art and souvenirs.
Magazin de fructe și legume
13.3 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of fresh fruits and vegetables at Magazin de Fructe și Legume in Orhei, a local gem for culinary enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La bar la Senea
7.1 km
Discover La Bar la Senea in Bălăşeşti – a cozy bar offering a unique blend of local flavors and a warm atmosphere for tourists.
Кафе Сафари этно музей с зооуголок.
11.8 km
Experience the unique blend of culture and cuisine at Café Safari Ethno Museum with Petting Zoo in Moldova.
Aici să dau heetsuri purple
12.1 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings at Aici să dau heetsuri purple in Molovata, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Bere Bună
13.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Orhei at Bere Bună, a lively bar serving local brews and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Fan Kebab
13.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of Moldova at Fan Kebab, where delicious shawarma meets friendly service in a cozy setting.
Diez Café
13.6 km
Discover the charm and flavors of Diez Café, a delightful restaurant in Orhei, Moldova, offering a unique culinary experience in a cozy setting.
Dolce Vita
13.6 km
Experience authentic Italian pizza at Dolce Vita in Orhei, Moldova, where culinary art meets cozy dining for all pizza lovers.
NIPPON SUSHI
13.6 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Nippon Sushi in Orhei, Moldova - a sushi lover's paradise in the heart of the city.
Le Café
13.7 km
Experience the warmth of Moldovan hospitality at Le Café in Orhei, a cozy spot for delicious food and delightful drinks.
Versailles
13.7 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Moldova at Versailles, the premier festival hall in Orhei, where tradition and celebration converge.
Acropolis
13.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Moldova at Acropolis, a must-visit restaurant in Orhei for every food-loving traveler.
VinBere
13.9 km
Discover the charm of VinBere, a cozy bar in Orhei, Moldova, offering local wines and a warm atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Zona de odihnă/picnic
14.2 km
Discover the beautiful Zona de Odihnă/Picnic in Orhei, Moldova - a perfect spot for outdoor barbecues and serene picnics surrounded by nature.
Restaurant Orhei
14.6 km
Experience authentic Moldovan cuisine at Restaurant Orhei, a culinary gem in Orhei, offering delightful dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Cafenea Orhei
14.7 km
Discover the charm of Cafenea Orhei, where delightful local cuisine meets a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the heart of Moldova.
