The Church of the "Stavropoleos" Monastery — Attraction in Bucharest

A Sanctuary of Art and History in Bucharest

Nestled within the lively and often bustling streets of Bucharest's historic Old Town, there is a beautiful and serene sanctuary that stands as a stunning contrast to the city's energy. This is the Stavropoleos Monastery Church, a true hidden gem that feels like a discovery the moment you find its peaceful courtyard.

From the outside, the church is an absolute masterpiece of the Brâncovenesc architectural style, a unique Romanian blend of Renaissance and Byzantine elements. Built in the early 18th century, its façade is a tapestry of intricate stone carvings and delicate floral motifs that are astonishing in their detail. The graceful columns and beautiful arches of the entrance are a testament to the skill of the artisans who crafted this stunning monument.

It's a building that invites you to pause and appreciate the quiet beauty of its design before you even step inside. The feeling of awe only deepens within its walls. The interior, while not large, is overwhelmingly beautiful and feels rich with centuries of history. Almost every surface is covered in magnificent frescoes that glow with a soft light. The space is a symphony of colors and intricate details, with every scene and figure meticulously painted. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the peaceful scent of incense and the hushed tones of visitors, creating a profound sense of quiet reverence.

The surrounding monastery courtyard is just as essential to the experience as the church itself. It's a peaceful, enclosed space with a beautiful cloister and a small garden, offering a moment of quiet reflection away from the energetic streets. This peaceful haven is home to a library that holds a fascinating collection of old books and manuscripts, adding another layer of historical depth to the visit.

The Stavropoleos Monastery Church is more than just a place of worship; it is an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression. It's an absolute must-see for anyone who appreciates breathtaking art, a deep sense of history, and a tranquil escape from the...

Stavropoleos Convent, also known - during the last century when the convent was dissolved - as Stavropoleos Church, is an Eastern Orthodox nunnery in central Bucharest, Romania. Its church is built in Brâncovenesc style. The patrons of the church are St. Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The name Stavropoleos is a Romanian rendition of a Greek word, Stauropolis, meaning "The city of the Cross". Among other things the convent is particularly famous for is Byzantine music; it has a choir and the largest collection of Byzantine music books in Romania. The church was built in 1724, during the reign of Nicolae Mavrocordat (Prince of Wallachia, 1719-1730), by archimandrite Ioanichie Stratonikeas. Within the precinct of his inn, Ioanichie built the church and a convent which was economically sustained with incomes from the inn. In 1726 abbot Ioanichie was elected metropolitan of Stavropole and exarch [the deputy of a patriarch] of Caria. Since then the convent he built has been known as Stavropoleos, after the name of its old seat. On February 7, 1742 Ioanichie, aged 61, died and was buried in his church. The inn and the monastery's annexes were demolished at the end of the 19th century. Over time the church suffered from earthquakes, which caused the dome to fall. The dome's paintings were restored at the beginning of the 20th century. All that remains from the original nunnery now is the church, alongside the building, dating back to the early 20th century, which shelters a library, a conference room and a collection of old (early 18th century) icons and ecclesiastical objects, as well as parts of the wall paintings recovered from churches demolished during the communist regime. This new building was constructed to a plan by...

Stavropoleos Monastery is a tiny 18th-century Orthodox church in Bucharest’s Old Town, right near the famous Caru’ cu Bere. Built in the traditional Romanian Brâncovenesc style, it’s dedicated to the Archangels Michael and Gabriel and Saint Justin.

A few nuns live there (some speak English and Spanish), and they’re kind and welcoming if you’re respectful. The courtyard is peaceful and full of stone pieces salvaged from churches that were demolished by Ceaușescu in the 1980s. It’s also a great spot for photos thanks to the soft, natural light.

Inside, the frescoes were restored using a special technique that brought the original colors back, even though they are not so vivid and some small details (like the faces and hands of some saints) were lost in the process. Few people know that next to the altar, there is a small square that has been left unrestored, just to see how black the walls used to be before rehabilitation. Entry is free, but keep in mind it’s an active place of prayer—quiet and respect are highly appreciated.

If you’re already exploring the Old Town, it’s also worth visiting the Museum of Communism, just a...