Stavropoleos Monastery, Orthodox monastery in central Bucharest, Romania
Stavropoleos Monastery is an Orthodox church and monastery in central Bucharest built in the Brâncovenesc style, which blends Byzantine and Italian Renaissance design elements. The courtyard displays fragments and architectural remains from earlier churches, creating an open-air collection of carved stones and foundations.
A Greek monk named Ioanichie Stratonikeas founded the monastery in 1724 during Nicolae Mavrocordat's rule, building it next to an inn he operated. Over time it became an important center for religious scholarship and craft traditions in the city.
The monastery remains a living place of prayer for Orthodox believers who attend services and venerate the icon collection housed here. Daily religious practice shapes how people move through and use these spaces.
The monastery sits near Lipscani Street and welcomes visitors to walk through the courtyard and examine the architecture and stone fragments on display. Daily services take place inside, so timing your visit thoughtfully helps you respect the active religious community using the space.
A specialized workshop inside the monastery restores ancient religious books, liturgical garments, and icons from Orthodox churches across the region. This careful craftsmanship keeps fragile pieces of spiritual heritage alive for future generations.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
