Nestled in the mountain resort town of Sinaia, surrounded by a spectacular mountainous landscape, lies Sinaia Monastery. This 17th-century spiritual retreat is home to a small group of Christian Orthodox monks and features frescoes and religious treasures from hundreds of years ago. Visit the monastic complex to explore its art and architecture.
Go to the old church, which was built in 1695. Look over the stately entrance with its beautifully carved rock portal, ornate door and frescoes featuring moments in the life of St. Catherine. The inscription above the entrance dates back to 1795 when the church underwent restoration work following a fire. Once inside, marvel at the magnificent paintings that cover the walls and ceilings.
Study the neo-Byzantine-style gold mosaic paintings inside Saint Trinity Church. These paintings feature prominent people in the country's history including King Carol I and his wife Elisabeth of Wied, the queen consort of Romania. Among the other highlights of this church are ornate furniture made of gold-plated sycamore and chairs that were used by members of the country’s royal family.
See the tomb of Tache Ionescu, who was briefly the prime minister of Romania during the early 1920s. On the walls of the crypt are engraved excerpts from some of his speeches.
Visit the monastery's museum for centuries-old religious icons, a 17th-century Bible, altar crosses from the 16th to the 19th centuries and the first books of religious music published in Romanian. Stop at the Chapel of the Transfiguration, which served as a school for monks in the 17th century.
This important religious site is located in Sinaia, which is 76 miles (123 kilometers) north of Bucharest, the Romanian capital. Arrive by train and walk about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from Sinaia railway station. If you are driving, use the on-site car park.
Visit Sinaia Monastery any day of the week, but during the winter, the museum and the old church are only open by request for groups of 10 or more people. Admission charges apply.
