The legends of Văratec Monastery: Veronica Micle’s spirit and the hidden unfinished book

Varatec Monastery is the largest nunnery in Romania. Veronica Micle retired there after the death of her lover, Mihai Eminescu, Romania’s greatest poet. Her grave is in the monastery cemetery.

It is said that the spirit of the poet Veronica Micle, who spent her last years at Varatec Monastery and is buried there, still lingers in the area. Visitors and nuns have reported feeling her presence, especially near her grave.

Pilgrims and locals alike whisper tales of encountering her ghost, often described as a sorrowful figure dressed in white, wandering the monastery grounds. These stories contribute to the mystique of Varatec, blending literary history with the supernatural, and attracting both believers in the paranormal and enthusiasts of Romanian literary history.

Among the many mysteries of Varatec Monastery is the legend of a hidden tunnel, rumored to connect the Varatec Monastery with the nearby Agapia Monastery. According to local lore, this secret passageway was constructed during times of political unrest to provide a safe escape for the nuns in case of an attack. Although no concrete evidence of the tunnel’s existence has been found, the story persists, captivating the imagination of those who visit. Some adventurous souls have even attempted to find the entrance, but the monastery keeps its secrets well, shrouded in the whispers of history and legend.

At the heart of Varatec Monastery lies its most revered treasure: the Miraculous Icon of the Virgin Mary. Believed to have miraculous powers, this icon attracts numerous pilgrims seeking healing and spiritual solace. Stories abound of miraculous recoveries and answered prayers attributed to the icon’s divine intervention. Encased in a beautifully adorned shrine, the icon is a focal point of daily worship and special religious ceremonies, embodying the deep faith and devotion that permeates the monastery.

There is a story that the monastery’s bell tower is enchanted. According to legend, the bell can only be rung by those who are pure of heart, and if someone unworthy tries to ring it, it remains silent.

It is said that a monk who lived at Varatec Monastery was writing a book containing profound spiritual knowledge. He passed away before completing it, and the manuscript disappeared mysteriously.

Some believe the manuscript is hidden within the monastery, waiting to be discovered, while others think it was taken to protect its secrets.