Background

Saharna Monastery: A Moldovan Spiritual and Natural Sanctuary

Discover spiritual solace and natural beauty at Saharna Monastery, a Moldovan pilgrimage site with stunning landscapes and rich history.

4.8

Nestled in a picturesque valley in Moldova, Saharna Monastery is a significant pilgrimage site featuring the Holy Trinity Monastery, a cave church, waterfalls, and stunning natural landscapes. It's a place where spirituality meets the beauty of nature.

A brief summary to Saharna Monastery

Local tips

  • Visit during the summer to enjoy the waterfalls and natural surroundings.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking to the waterfalls and Grimidon Rock.
  • Take time to explore both the upper monastery and the cave monastery.
  • Respect the religious significance of the site by dressing modestly.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as heavy rain can affect trail conditions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chișinău, take a bus to Orhei. From Orhei, hire a taxi to Saharna Monastery. The bus journey to Orhei takes approximately 1.5 hours, and the taxi ride to Saharna is around 45 minutes. A taxi from Orhei to Saharna Monastery will cost approximately 250-350 MDL.

  • Driving

    From Chișinău, drive north on the M2 highway towards Orhei. Continue past Orhei, following signs to Rezina and then Saharna. The journey is approximately 101 km and takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Be aware that road conditions may vary. Parking is available near the monastery.

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, located in the village of Saharna, approximately 110 km north of Chișinău, is one of Moldova's most visited pilgrimage sites. The monastic complex is nestled in a scenic valley on the right bank of the Dniester River and is considered a natural reservation encompassing 670 hectares under government protection. The monastery's history dates back to the 18th century when monk Lavrentie discovered a miraculous icon of the Holy Virgin Mary in a nearby cave, leading to the establishment of the monastery. However, some sources suggest the first monks appeared there as early as the 12th-15th centuries. The monastery consists of three churches: the Holy Trinity Church, the cave Church of the Annunciation, and the Church of the Nativity of Theotokos. The Holy Trinity Church, built in 1821, stands out with its simple architecture and priceless relics. The cave church is an enigma, its origins and founder unknown. Beyond its religious significance, Saharna is renowned for its natural beauty, including approximately 22 waterfalls along the Saharna River. One of the most famous is a 10-meter-high waterfall that forms a deep pool called "Gipsy Hole". Visitors can also climb to the top of Grimidon Rock for panoramic views of the Codru Woods and visit a chapel built around a footprint of St. Maria. During the Soviet era, the monastery was closed in 1964 and repurposed as a hospital and storage facility. It was reopened in 1990, and restoration efforts have been ongoing since. Today, Saharna Monastery continues to attract pilgrims and tourists seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty.

Popular Experiences near Saharna Monastery

Popular Hotels near Saharna Monastery

Select Currency