Background

Saharna Monastery: A Moldovan Pilgrimage Site

Discover Saharna Monastery: a Moldovan treasure with sacred relics, stunning landscapes, and a rich spiritual history. A must-see pilgrimage site!

4.8

Nestled in a picturesque valley near the Dniester River, Saharna Monastery is one of Moldova's most important religious pilgrimage sites. It features multiple churches, ancient relics, and stunning natural surroundings, including waterfalls and the legendary footprint of St. Maria.

A brief summary to Saharna Monastery

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the natural surroundings, including the waterfalls and trails.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the monastery, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the waterfalls or the footprint of St. Maria.
  • Visit during the summer to enjoy the waterfalls and the surrounding nature at its best.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chișinău, take a bus to Orhei. From Orhei, a taxi is required to reach Saharna Monastery. The bus journey to Orhei takes approximately 1.5 hours, and the taxi ride from Orhei to the monastery is around 45 minutes. The bus fare is approximately 50-70 MDL, and the taxi fare is around 200-300 MDL.

  • Driving

    Driving from Chișinău to Saharna Monastery takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes via route M21. The distance is about 101 km. Be aware that the roads in the region may be in variable condition. Parking is available near the monastery entrance. Expect to pay around 10-20 MDL for parking.

Unlock the Best of Saharna Monastery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Saharna Monastery

Saharna Monastery, officially the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, is located in the village of Saharna, approximately 110 km north of Chișinău. This monastic complex is considered one of the largest centers for religious pilgrimages in Moldova. The monastery is not only a place of worship but also a natural reserve encompassing 670 hectares, protected by the government. The history of Saharna Monastery is shrouded in legends. One tells of a monk who saw a shining figure of St. Maria on a rock. Upon reaching the spot, he found a footprint, believed to be left by the Virgin Mary. This event was seen as a divine sign, leading to the establishment of a wooden church in 1777, which was later replaced by a stone structure decorated with frescoes. The monastery houses the relics of St. Macarie, adding to its significance as a pilgrimage destination. The complex includes several notable churches: the Holy Trinity Church, the cave church of Holy Annunciation, and the Church of the Nativity of Theotokos. The cave hermitage, dating back to possibly the 14th century, is located just 200 meters from the main monastery and is open to visitors. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rocky hills, forests, and the Saharna River, which features numerous cascades and waterfalls.

Popular Experiences near Saharna Monastery

Popular Hotels near Saharna Monastery

Select Currency