Background

Moldovița Monastery: A Testament to Moldavian Art

Discover Moldovița Monastery, a UNESCO site in Bucovina, Romania, famed for its vibrant 16th-century frescoes and rich history.

4.8

Nestled in the heart of Bucovina, Romania, Moldovița Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning exterior frescoes. Built in 1532 by Petru Rareș, it stands as a vibrant example of 16th-century Moldavian art and a protective barrier against Ottoman invaders.

A brief summary to Moldovita Monastery

Local tips

  • Photography is allowed outside, but not inside the church.
  • Dress respectfully; avoid shorts or skimpy clothing when visiting the monastery.
  • Visit the monastery museum to see a collection of embroideries, icons and liturgical books.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Suceava, take a train to Vama. Trains run approximately every 3 hours, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Vama, transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Moldovița Monastery in Vatra Moldoviței. Bus schedules may vary, so check with locals for the most accurate information. Expect to pay around 18-22 USD for the train from Suceava to Vama.

  • Driving

    From Suceava, drive approximately 67 km to Moldovița Monastery. The drive takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. Parking is available near the monastery. Be aware that roads in the region may be narrow and winding. The drive from Gura Humorului to Moldovita Monastery is approximately 20 miles.

Unlock the Best of Moldovita Monastery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Moldovita Monastery

Moldovița Monastery, located in Vatra Moldoviței, Suceava County, is a jewel of Romania's Bucovina region. Founded in 1532 by Petru Rareș, the illegitimate son of Stephen the Great, the monastery was conceived as a protective bulwark against the Ottoman Empire. The monastery is dedicated to the Annunciation. The exterior frescoes, painted in 1537 by Toma of Suceava, are what truly set Moldovița apart. The paintings predominantly feature yellow and blue hues and depict recurring themes in Orthodox Christian art. A procession of saints leads to the Virgin enthroned with the Child, while the "Tree of Jesse" illustrates Christ's ancestry. The "Siege of Constantinople" commemorates the Virgin Mary's intervention in saving the city, reflecting the protection of the Virgin Mary for Moldova. Inside, "The Last Judgment" covers the west wall, portraying a river of fire and the sea giving up its dead. The monastery also houses a museum with embroideries, icons, and liturgical books. Moldovița's frescoes are among the best-preserved of the painted monasteries, offering a glimpse into the artistic brilliance of the era. The monastery was awarded the Pomme d'Or trophy by FIJET in 1975 for its unique paintings.

Popular Experiences near Moldovita Monastery

Popular Hotels near Moldovita Monastery

Select Currency