Ten Things to Do in Trebujeni Monastery, Orhei Moldova
Trebujeni Monastery is a picturesque religious complex located in the village of Trebujeni, in the Orhei District of Moldova. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities and events to explore. From exploring the monastery’s history to taking part in traditional festivals, here are ten things to do in Trebujeni Monastery, Orhei Moldova.
1. Visit the Monastery – Trebujeni Monastery was built in 1660 and is the oldest monastery in Moldova. It is home to an impressive collection of religious artifacts and artworks, including a large wooden crucifix and a number of icons. Visitors can explore the monastery grounds, which include a church, a bell tower, and a cemetery.
2. Attend a Festival – Trebujeni Monastery is home to several traditional festivals throughout the year. The most popular is the annual Easter festival, which features traditional music and dancing. Other festivals include the Festival of St. Nicholas in December and the Festival of St. John the Baptist in June.
3. Explore the Local Culture – Trebujeni Monastery is a great place to learn about local culture and traditions. Visitors can explore the nearby villages, where they can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. The monastery also hosts art exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.
4. Try Local Cuisine – The village of Trebujeni is home to several traditional restaurants, where visitors can sample local dishes. Popular dishes include mamaliga (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and placinta (sweet or savory pies).
5. Visit the Orheiul Vechi Archaeological Complex – Located just a few kilometers away from Trebujeni Monastery is the Orheiul Vechi Archaeological Complex. This site features the ruins of several ancient settlements, including a 13th century fortress and a 7th century Byzantine church.
6. Take a Hike – There are several hiking trails in the area surrounding Trebujeni Monastery. Visitors can explore the nearby forests and hills, and take in the stunning views of the countryside.
7. Visit the Local Markets – The village of Trebujeni is home to several weekly markets, where visitors can shop for local produce and handmade goods. The markets are also a great place to try traditional snacks such as plăcintă (dumplings) and borş (soup).
8. Go Bird-Watching – The area surrounding Trebujeni Monastery is a popular spot for bird-watching. Visitors can spot a variety of species, including hawks, owls, and woodpeckers.
9. Visit the Local Wineries – The village of Trebujeni is home to several wineries, where visitors can sample a variety of local wines. Popular varieties include Feteasca Neagră and Rara Neagră.
10. Take a Day Trip – Trebujeni Monastery is a great starting point for a day trip. Visitors can explore nearby towns such as Orhei and Chisinau, or take a trip to the nearby Prut River.
Trebujeni Monastery is a beautiful and historic destination in Moldova. From exploring the monastery’s grounds to taking part in traditional festivals, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled day trip, Trebujeni Monastery is the perfect destination.