Voronet Monastery

About

Built by Peter the Great in 1487 to celebrate his victory over the Turks, Voronet stands as perhaps the most stunning of Romania’s painted monasteries. In 1547, the vivid frescoes depicting Biblical scenes, sacred hymns, and even philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle, were added. The unique shade of blue used throughout is so unique, it’s been dubbed ‘Voronet Blue’. To this day, the paint’s composition remains a mystery. In 1785, after almost three centuries of service, monastic life was interrupted, and didn’t resume until 1991. Today, the nuns have made a community combining prayer with housekeeping and farmwork, and even run a painting workshop. They are also happy to give visitors a guided tour of the complex.