Saharna Monastery: A Moldovan Pilgrimage Site
Discover Moldova's spiritual heart at Saharna Monastery, a pilgrimage site surrounded by stunning natural beauty and ancient history.
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".
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing, as the terrain around the monastery can be uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike to the waterfalls or the footprint of St. Maria.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the monastery (shoulders and knees covered).
- Consider visiting in the summer to enjoy the waterfalls and natural surroundings.
- Be aware that the monastery was once used as a psychiatric hospital during the Soviet era.
A brief summary to Saharna Monastery
- 5431, Saharna, MD
- +37325478737
Getting There
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Bus and Taxi
From Chișinău, take a bus to Orhei. From the Orhei bus station, hire a taxi to Saharna Monastery. The bus journey to Orhei takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, and the taxi ride from Orhei to Saharna is about 45 minutes. The approximate cost for the bus is 80 MDL, and the taxi fare is around 300-400 MDL.
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Driving
Driving from Chișinău to Saharna Monastery takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 101 km. Follow the main road towards Orhei, then take the route to Rezina and Saharna. Parking is available near the monastery. Be aware that the road beyond Orhei may have some segments in disrepair. Fuel costs for the trip are estimated at 250-350 MDL.
