Radu Vodă Monastery
Radu Vodă Monastery is a Romanian Orthodox monastery located in Bucharest, Romania, on the banks of the Dâmbovița River. Founded in 1577, it was intended to be the metropolitan church of the capital and was later completed under Radu Mihnea, from whom it derives its name. The monastery has undergone significant renovations throughout its history, including a major restoration between 1969 and 1974, and is the burial site of Patriarch Justinian Marina.
Key Facts
- ›Founded in 1577 by Alexander II Mircea and Catherine Salvaresso.
- ›Intended to serve as the metropolitan church of Bucharest.
- ›Completed under the rule of Radu Mihnea, after whom it is named.
- ›Completely renovated between 1969 and 1974.
- ›Patriarch Justinian Marina is buried within the monastery's interior wall.
- ›Located on the banks of the Dâmbovița River in central Bucharest.
- Site of the Oldest Known Settlement On the Territory of Romania
- Remains of A Fortified Settlement From the Dacian Era
- Grave of Patriarch Justinian Marina
Alexander Ii Mircea, Catherine Salvaresso, Radu Mihnea, Patriarch Justinian Marina
Founded As Thanksgiving For A Battle Victory, Completed Under Radu Mihnea's Rule, Renovated Between 1969-1974, Burial of Patriarch Justinian Marina In 1977
About Radu Vodă Monastery
Radu Vodă Monastery is a significant Romanian Orthodox monastery situated in the heart of Bucharest, Romania, along the Dâmbovița River. Its historical roots are deeply embedded in the site's ancient past, which boasts evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era, making it the location of Romania's oldest known settlement. The area also preserves remnants of a Dacian fortified settlement.
Founding and Early History
The monastery itself was founded in 1577 by Voivode Alexander II Mircea and his wife, Catherine Salvaresso, as an expression of gratitude for a military victory. It was envisioned to serve as the metropolitan church for the capital. The construction was later continued and completed under the reign of Radu Mihnea, from whom the monastery derives its current name.
Later Developments and Renovation
Over the centuries, Radu Vodă Monastery has undergone various transformations and periods of rebuilding. A comprehensive renovation project was undertaken between 1969 and 1974, initiated by Patriarch Justinian Marina. Following his death in 1977, Patriarch Justinian Marina was interred within the monastery's interior wall, a testament to his connection with the site.
Location and Accessibility
Strategically located at Radu Vodă Street, no. 24A, the monastery is close to the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral and a short distance from the Piața Unirii metro station, making it easily accessible within the bustling capital city. The monastery continues to function as an active religious community and is open to visitors, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich religious and historical heritage.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Radu Vodă Monastery founded?
Radu Vodă Monastery was founded in 1577 by Alexander II Mircea and his wife Catherine Salvaresso. The construction was completed under the rule of Radu Mihnea.
What was the original purpose of Radu Vodă Monastery?
The monastery was intended to be the metropolitan church of the capital city. Its founding was an act of thanksgiving for a victory in battle.
Has the monastery always looked as it does today?
No, the monastery has been rebuilt and renovated over the centuries. A significant renovation took place between 1969 and 1974, initiated by Patriarch Justinian Marina.
Where is Radu Vodă Monastery located?
Radu Vodă Monastery is situated in Bucharest, Romania, at Radu Vodă Street, no. 24A. It is located on the banks of the Dâmbovița River, close to the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral and near the Piața Unirii metro station.
Is there any notable burial at Radu Vodă Monastery?
Yes, Patriarch Justinian Marina was laid to rest in a grave within the interior wall of the monastery upon his death in 1977.
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