Saharna Monastery: A Moldovan Pilgrimage Site

The Saharna Monastery, officially the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, is one of Moldova's most significant religious sites, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. Located approximately 110 km north of Chișinău, near the village of Saharna, the monastery is set in a stunning natural reserve on the right bank of the Dniester River.The monastery complex comprises two monasteries: the cave monastery of the Annunciation and the Holy Trinity Monastery. The area's history stretches back to the Iron Age, with remnants of Geto-Dacian fortresses still visible. The monastery itself was founded in 1776 by the monk Bartholomew, who built a wooden church and cells enclosed by a stone wall. According to legend, the monk saw a shining figure of St. Maria on a rock, and upon reaching the spot, discovered a footprint, which is now a revered relic.The Holy Trinity Church, constructed of brick in the old Moldavian style between 1818 and 1821, replaced the original wooden structure. The monastery also features a winter church and various buildings, including monks' cells, a refectory, and outbuildings. The Soviets closed the monastery in 1964, converting it into a psychiatric hospital and destroying many religious objects. It was reopened in 1991 and has since been restored.Visitors can explore the cave monastery, see the footprint of St. Maria, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, including the Saharna River's 22 waterfalls, one of which forms a deep pool known as the "Gipsy Hole".