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Hîrjauca Monastery
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The Hîrjauca Monastery is located deep within the Codri forests of the Călărași district, renowned for the harmonious blend of its architecture and the surrounding natural landscape. Founded in 1740 on a site famous for its healing springs, the monastery early on gained a reputation as a spiritual and physical healing center. The current Church of the Ascension was built in 1836 in a classicist style, standing out with its monumental presence and exquisite interior frescoes. A unique feature of the monastic complex is its extensive dendrological park, which houses centuries-old oaks and was meticulously designed in the 19th century by professional landscape architects. In 1953, the Soviet authorities closed the monastery and converted it into a rest home, a function it served for several decades until its return to the church in 1993. Today, the monastery continues to attract pilgrims and tourists alike, drawn by its peaceful atmosphere and historical significance.
- Location: Moldova
- Top sights: Mănăstirea Hîrjăuca · Izvor amenajat · Biserica satului Oricova
- Nearby: Călărași (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 21 | 23 | 23 | 17 | 10 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 36 | 33 | 37 | 48 | 57 | 73 | 69 | 43 | 39 | 46 | 38 | 37 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Hîrjauca Monastery is open year-round, consisting of a church, a bell tower, and a small monastery courtyard. Visitors can explore both the church and the adjacent spa center with its mineral springs.
Typical hours
The monastery is typically open during daylight hours, with the church accessible during services. The spa center has separate hours, often from 9 am to 6 pm; it is best to ask on site.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the monastery courtyard and around the springs, but inside the church only with care and without flash. Respect the privacy of spa guests in the treatment area.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for visiting the church and monastery grounds. If you plan to use the mineral springs or spa center, set aside half a day for relaxation and wellness.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Hîrbovăț Monastery, also in the Călărași region, housing another miracle-working icon. The town of Călărași with its local markets and cafés also invites a stop.
Getting there
The monastery is about 70 kilometers northwest of Chișinău, accessible via the M1 then local roads towards Hîrjauca. A car is most convenient, but regular buses run from Chișinău to Călărași, from where you take a taxi.
Insider tip
Try the mineral water straight from the spring - it is valued for its healing properties. Bring an empty bottle to take some home.
Geography
Facts
- Founded around 1740 near healing mineral springs.
- The Church of the Ascension was constructed in 1836.
- Features a dendrological park with oaks over 200 years old.
- The monastery was converted into a Soviet sanatorium in 1953.
- Its return to the church and reopening took place in 1993.
- In the 19th century, the monastery was famous for its extensive library.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Hîrjauca Monastery (3)
Biserica satului Oricova
Wooden church in Oricova village, built by Savatie Baștovoi, featuring traditional Moldavian architecture.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the remedy of Hîrjauca Monastery?
The monastery is famous for its healing spring located in a nearby chapel.
What is the architectural style of the monastery?
The main St. Spyridon church was built in the 19th century in Classical style with a distinctive rotunda.
What are the surroundings of Hîrjauca Monastery like?
It is located in a very green valley in the Călărași district, surrounded by century-old trees and sanatoriums.
Can the holy spring be visited?
Yes, visitors can take water from the spring, which is said to have healing properties for eye and stomach ailments.
Is Hîrjauca Monastery active?
Yes, it is an active monastery for monks with a small but very hospitable community.
Hîrjauca Monastery: where is it located?
Hîrjauca Monastery is located in Moldova.
Hîrjauca Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mănăstirea Hîrjăuca, Izvor amenajat, Biserica satului Oricova.
Hîrjauca Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Hîrjauca Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
The Hîrjauca Monastery is located deep within the Codri forests of the Călărași district, renowned for the harmonious blend of its architecture and the surrounding natural landscape.
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