Govora Monastery, Orthodox monastery in Scărișoara, Romania.
Govora Monastery is an Orthodox monastery in Vâlcea County, Romania, enclosed by stone defensive walls. Inside the walls stand a church with a bell tower, monks' cells, and several other religious buildings built across different centuries.
The monastery is thought to have been founded in the 14th century and was rebuilt in the late 15th century after a period of destruction under several Wallachian princes. It grew into a major religious and cultural center during the 16th and 17th centuries.
The monastery is known for its 16th-century printing press, where the first printed translation of the Bible into Romanian was prepared. It remains an active place of monastic life, and visitors can observe the daily routines of the community.
The monastery sits in a rural area of Vâlcea County, so it works best as part of a day trip in the region. Paths around the grounds can be uneven, and modest dress is required when entering the church or other religious buildings.
The monastery church preserves an Epitrahil, a liturgical vestment hand-embroidered with gold and silver threads depicting holy figures. This piece is considered one of the most valuable textile objects held in a Romanian monastery.
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