Old Orhei: A Journey Through Time and Nature
Explore Moldova's ancient heart at Old Orhei: cave monasteries, historic ruins, and stunning landscapes await just a short trip from Chișinău.
Old Orhei, a natural and historical complex in Moldova, reveals layers of civilizations that have marked this land. Situated on a narrow bend of the Răut River, the area combines dramatic limestone cliffs with vestiges of ancient settlements. Archaeological excavations have unearthed traces from the Paleolithic, Eneolithic, and Iron Ages, including Geto-Dacian fortresses from the 6th to 1st centuries BC. In the 14th century, the Golden Horde established the city of Shehr al-Jedid, later replaced by a Moldavian fort. The Orthodox monastery, founded around the 14th century, features cave chapels adorned with historical artifacts and Old Church Slavonic inscriptions. These caves once sheltered Hajduk warriors fleeing the Ottoman Empire in the 1690s. Today, Old Orhei is an open-air museum, offering hiking trails with scenic views, ancient caves, and archaeological sites. Visitors can explore the cave monastery, the Gaetic fortress on Butuceni promontory, and the ruins of the medieval city. The site offers a glimpse into Moldova's diverse past, blending natural beauty with centuries of human history.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring Old Orhei involves a lot of walking on uneven terrain.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the cave monasteries; women should cover their heads and shoulders, and men should wear long trousers.
- Bring water and snacks, especially during the hot summer months, as facilities are limited.
- Check the bus schedule in advance if using public transport, as services are not frequent.
- Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
A brief summary to Old Orhei
- Old Orhei, MD
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Chișinău, take a marshrutka (minibus) from the Central Bus Station to Trebujeni or Butuceni. Buses depart roughly hourly, with a journey time of around 1.5 to 2 hours. A ticket costs approximately 46 MDL. From either village, it's a short walk or taxi ride to the Old Orhei complex.
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Taxi
A taxi from Chișinău to Old Orhei takes about 55 minutes and costs approximately 15-18 USD. Local taxi numbers for Trebujeni are +387 65 644-425 or 387 65 865 585. Ensure the taxi is marked and agree on the price before starting the journey.
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Walking
Once in Butuceni, a small bridge over the Răut River leads to the trailhead for a 15-minute hike up to the Cave Monastery. Follow the marked paths to explore the various sites within the complex.
