10 Things to Do in Voronet Monastery (Manastirea Voronet), Suceava, Romania
Situated in the picturesque Bucovina region of Romania, the Voronet Monastery (Manastirea Voronet) is one of the most stunning and impressive religious monuments in the country. Built in the 15th century by Stephen the Great, it is renowned for its unique frescoes which depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Today, the monastery is a popular tourist destination and here are 10 things to do when visiting this incredible site.
1. Admire the Frescoes: The most stunning feature of the monastery is undoubtedly its exterior frescoes. Painted in a distinctive shade of blue, known as ‘Voronet Blue’, the frescoes depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as the life of Saint George.
2. Visit the Church: The Voronet Monastery is home to a stunning church which was built in the 15th century. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning frescoes, as well as the impressive wooden iconostasis, which dates back to the 18th century.
3. Explore the Courtyard: The monastery’s courtyard is a great place to explore and admire the tranquil atmosphere. Here, visitors can admire the stunning architecture, as well as the beautiful gardens and fountains.
4. Learn About Its History: The monastery has a fascinating history and visitors can learn more about it by visiting the museum. Here, visitors can see a range of artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, religious icons, and other items of historical importance.
5. Visit the Bell Tower: One of the most impressive features of the monastery is its bell tower, which stands at over 30 metres tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Take a Guided Tour: There are a number of guided tours available at the monastery which will take visitors around the site and explain the history and significance of the various features.
7. Visit the Chapel of the Three Hierarchs: Located in the courtyard of the monastery, the Chapel of the Three Hierarchs is a beautiful and serene place to visit. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning frescoes which depict the three saints.
8. Attend a Concert: The monastery is home to a stunning concert hall which hosts a range of classical and religious concerts. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience by attending one of these concerts.
9. Participate in a Pilgrimage: Every year, thousands of people visit the monastery to take part in a pilgrimage. This is a great way to learn more about the religious significance of the site and to experience the spiritual atmosphere.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The surrounding area is home to a range of traditional restaurants which serve a range of delicious local dishes. Visitors can enjoy a unique culinary experience by sampling some of the local cuisine.
Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or simply want to admire the stunning architecture, the Voronet Monastery is a must-visit destination. With its stunning frescoes, impressive church, and beautiful courtyard, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience.