Schitul Maicilor Monastery

The Nuns' Skete, known in Romanian as Schitul Maicilor, is a significant Romanian Orthodox church located at 47 Mitropolit Antim Ivireanul Street in Bucharest. Dedicated to the Feast of the Annunciation, this historic edifice traces its origins to the summer and autumn of 1726 when Tatiana Hagi Dinu served as its founder (ktetoressa). Initially established as a skete, it later became a metochion of Țigănești Monastery and eventually a chapel under the Patriarchate. The monastery's history is marked by periods of development, property grants, and the preservation of relic fragments of Saints Nicholas and Charalambos.

Historical Context and Transformations

The church underwent several significant transformations throughout its history. Following the secularization of monastic estates in 1865, it came under the administration of the Albă Postăvari Church. Later, in 1926, it was returned to Țigănești Monastery, and in 1952, it became a chapel of the Patriarchate. Notable repairs occurred in 1896, during which original frescoes were painted over. The structure was consolidated after the 1940 earthquake, and a comprehensive restoration of the ensemble, including surrounding buildings designed in Neo-Brâncovenesc style, was undertaken between 1955 and 1958 under the personal care of Patriarch Justinian Marina.

Resilience and Relocation

A dramatic chapter in the monastery's history unfolded during the regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu. In 1980, a decree ordered the demolition of the ensemble to make way for the Republic's House. Despite strong opposition, demolition proceeded in 1982, but only the church itself remained. In a remarkable feat of engineering, the 745-ton structure was moved 245 meters eastward over a period of 72 hours. Following this move, the church was isolated and soon surrounded by large government buildings. The regime subsequently ordered its closure after only one month of operation. Despite facing clandestine repairs, the church remained closed until after the Romanian Revolution.

Restoration and Current Status

Following the Romanian Revolution, the painting was restored and further repairs were carried out in 1995, leading to the resumption of services the following year. The church is recognized for its ship-shaped design, measuring 17.75 meters long, with a single dome and a bell tower. Its open portico, supported by slender stone columns, and decorated facades contribute to its aesthetic appeal. The church is listed as a historic monument by Romania's Ministry of Culture and Religious Affairs, safeguarding its cultural and religious significance.