Capriana Monastery

About

One of the oldest monasteries in Moldova, Capriana Monastery was first documented in 1420, and it’s first stone church was built in the 16th century. Due to Moldova’s economic decline and cultural stagnation during the 17th century, the monastery decayed until 1813, when monastic life was reinvigorated. Under Communist rule, the monastery was plundered and secularized, serving as everything from a children’s sanitorium to a discotheque. Today, the monastery has been restored and is actively performing services once again. Visitors can enjoy the three churches: the 16th century Assumption of the Virgin Mary in medieval Moldovan style, the Church of St. Nicholas from 1840, and St. George from 1907. It’s also possible to get a more intimate glimpse of monastic life in the abbot's house, refectory, and monk's cells. Thanks to its age and importance, the monastery also holds nation’s largest religious library, along with gifts from different kings.