Mihai Vodă Monastery
Orthodox Christian·Romania·Partially preserved (church moved, cloisters demolished)·16th century
Mihai Vodă Monastery, established in 1591 by Mihai Viteazul, is a historically significant and one of Bucharest's oldest buildings. Originally conceived as a fortress-like structure near the Dâmbovița River, it has served various roles including a residence for leaders, a military hospital, a medical school, and the home of the National Archives of Romania. Despite its church being moved to preserve it during the communist era, the monastery remains an important archeological and historical site.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1591 by Mihai Viteazul.
- ›One of the oldest buildings in Bucharest.
- ›Originally built with stone walls resembling a fortress.
- ›Served multiple functions over its history, including housing the National Archives of Romania.
- ›The church building was relocated 285 meters east in 1985 to make way for the CIVIC Centre.
- ›Classified as a historical monument under code B-II-a-A-19644.
- Original Fortress-Like Stone Walls
- Site of A 3000-Year-Old Dacian Archeological Discovery
- Relocated Church Building
Mihai Viteazul, PăTrașCu Cel Bun, Alexandru Cel RăU
Mihai Viteazul's Vow To Build A Monastery, Relocation of the Church Building In 1985, Discovery of A Dacian Archeological Site
About Mihai Vodă Monastery
Mihai Vodă Monastery is a historically significant complex in Bucharest, Romania, renowned as one of the city's oldest surviving structures and a testament to its rich past. Founded in 1591 by Mihai Viteazul, the Voivode of Wallachia, the monastery was initially constructed with robust stone walls, giving it a fortress-like appearance. Its strategic location near the Dâmbovița River meant it was well-positioned to serve multiple crucial functions throughout history.
Over the centuries, the monastery's buildings were repurposed, housing leaders, serving as a military hospital and a medical school, and most notably, becoming the site of the National Archives of Romania. The grounds themselves held deep historical importance, containing an ancient Dacian archeological site dating back over 3000 years, from which numerous relics were unearthed.
The monastery's most dramatic transformation occurred in 1985 under the communist regime. To facilitate the construction of the Civic Centre, the medieval cloisters and ancillary buildings were demolished. However, the main church building was ingeniously moved 285 meters to the east on rails, finding its current location on Sapienței street, where it remains preserved.
Legend of Foundation
A compelling legend surrounds the monastery's origin. It is said that Mihai Viteazul, facing a death sentence after being arrested for alleged conspiracy, prayed at the Church Albă Postăvari. Bowing to the icon of Saint Nicholas, he vowed to build a monastery nearby if he were spared. Accounts vary on how he escaped execution, with possibilities including a ransom paid by aristocrats, the executioner's refusal to carry out the sentence, or community protests.
Historical Status
Once described as "one of the largest monasteries of Romania" in 1813, Mihai Vodă Monastery is now recognized for its historical and archeological value. It is included in Romania's List of historical monuments, classified under code B-II-a-A-19644. While the monastic community is no longer active and much of the original complex has been lost, the relocated church and the historical significance of the site continue to be recognized.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mihai Vodă Monastery founded?
Mihai Vodă Monastery was founded in 1591 by Mihai Viteazul. The legend surrounding its founding suggests the promise was made between 1589 and 1591.
What is the historical significance of Mihai Vodă Monastery?
It is one of the oldest buildings in Bucharest and has played various roles in the city's history, serving as a residence for leaders, a military hospital, a medical school, and the site of the National Archives of Romania.
Why was the church building moved?
During the communist regime in 1985, the church building was moved on rails 285 meters east to make way for the Civic Centre. The medieval cloisters and ancillary buildings were demolished.
What is the legend behind the monastery's founding?
According to legend, Mihai Viteazul, facing execution, vowed to build a monastery nearby if he escaped death. After his liberation, he kept his promise and founded Mihai Vodă Monastery.
What archeological importance does the site hold?
Inside the monastery yard, there was a Dacian archeological site over 3000 years old, where ancient pottery and other relics were discovered, highlighting its long historical depth.
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