1400AD-Present-Modern Era Europe Romania Churches, Cathedrals, Basilicas, Monasteries

Discover the Dragomirna Monastery in Suceava: The balance between beauty and prayer

Dragomirna Monastery, Suceava
The Dragomirna Monastery was built in 1602 in Mitocu Dragomirnei village, in Suceava County, by Anastasie Crimca of Moldova.

Tourist Information

TypeMonastery
Year1609
FounderPrince Vasile Lupu and his wife, Mrs. Elena
Architectural StyleMoldavian (gothic + byzantine) 
Getting thereCar – from Suceava (14 km)
The closest airports are located in Suceava (SCV) – www.aeroportsuceava.ro
Iasi (IAS) – www.aeroport.ro
When to visitEvery Day, Day time
LocationDJ208U 1, Dragomirna 727365, Suceava, Romania, Europe

Map

Why is Dragomirna Monastery famous?

  • Dragomirna Monastery has a unique church in Romania for its unusual proportions. By far it is the tallest and narrowest church ever founded.
  • The Dragomirna Monastery was built in 1602 in the village of Mitocu Dragomirnei, in Suceava county, by Anastasie Crimca of Moldova on the order of the ruler Prince Vasile Lupu and his wife, Mrs. Elena.
  • This monastery is famous for its architectural complex, which combines elements specific to the Moldavian style with influences of Ukrainian and Polish architecture. Planned in a traditional style, with strong walls and defense towers, the monastery is reminiscent of medieval fortresses.
  • The monastery is surrounded by high stone walls.
  • Dragomirna’s Museum of Medieval Art contains carved cedar crosses mounted in silver-gilt filigree and numerous religious texts.
  • The church tower is 42 m high
  • On the right side of the exit, there is a small shop where you can buy different types of honey, creams, and oils made by nuns.
  • Inside the church, you will find a shop where you can buy religious objects.

What legends does Dragomirna Monastery hide?

  • Legend of the name: One of the legends refers to the name of the monastery and its origin. It is said that the name “Dragomirna” comes from the Slavic language and means “the shelter of love” or “the sweet shelter”. This poetic name suggests the deep spiritual connection between the location and the believers.
  • The Vision of the Holy Sea: Another legend is related to the founding of the monastery in the 17th century. It is said that the monk Daniil, one of the founders of the monastery, had a vision in which Saint Mary showed him the place where to build the monastery. This vision would have directed him to the hill on which the monastery now stands and would have been a divine sign of blessing for this sacred construction.
  • Monastery Paintings: The monastery murals are said to have been done in an incredibly short time, practically overnight. Legend has it that angels descended from the heavens and painted the walls of the monastery during the night, thus helping to create these unique works of art.
Dragomirna Monastery, Suceava
Dragomirna Monastery, Suceava
Dragomirna Monastery, Suceava

About the author

Catalina

I am Catalina, and my passion for travel, mysteries, legends and archaeology drives me to explore the world and uncover its hidden wonders.