The monastery was founded by Alexandru cel Bun in 1429 and was later supported by Stephen the Great.
It functioned as the primary residence of the Metropolitan of Bessarabia during the 19th century.
The 1840-built Saint George Church is characterized by its distinct rotunda architecture, rare for local monastic complexes.
The monastery's library was historically one of the most important in the region, housing rare Slavic manuscripts.
During the Soviet era, the site was converted into a sanitarium and museum, closing as a place of worship for several decades.
The Saint Nicholas Church was built in 1840 under the patronage of the local boyar elite.
It is located within the Codrii Scientific Reserve, the oldest nature reserve in Moldova.
Căpriana Monastery is one of the oldest monastic establishments in Moldova, founded originally in the 15th century. It served as the residence of the Bishop of Moldova and remains a significant spiritual and historical landmark. The complex consists of three main churches: the Assumption Church, the Saint Nicholas Church, and the Saint George Church. The site underwent extensive restoration in the early 2000s, which revitalized its original architectural integrity. It holds the tomb of the Moldavian chronicler Cyprian and was once the resting place of Metropolitan Gavril Bănulescu-Bodoni before his remains were relocated. The monastery is situated within the Codrii forest, a protected natural reserve. Its architectural style blends traditional Moldavian medieval elements with later Neoclassical and Neo-Byzantine influences. It remains an active Orthodox monastery today, functioning under the jurisdiction of the Moldovan Orthodox Church.
The raised vantage point on the forest path looking back at the monastery's three distinct church domes.
Visit on a weekday to avoid the high volume of local pilgrims who frequent the grounds during weekend liturgies.
Explore the walking paths leading into the surrounding Codrii forest for views of the monastery from the hillside.
Carry a small scarf or shawl, as the monastery grounds are considered sacred, and modest dress is strictly enforced inside the churches.
Taking photographs during active church services, as it is considered disruptive to the congregation.
Shoulders and knees must be covered for all visitors; women are expected to cover their hair when entering church interiors.
