The monastery was founded by Father Nicolae Gherman after his young daughter, Anuța, reportedly saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary at the site.
Nicolae Steinhardt, a Jewish convert to Orthodox Christianity and author of 'The Happiness Diary', took his monastic vows here.
The monastery library contains over 20,000 volumes, including many rare theological texts.
The site features a commemorative museum dedicated to the life and work of Nicolae Steinhardt.
The monastery's location on 'Dealul Viei' (Vineyard Hill) was chosen to symbolize a retreat from the secular world.
The original wooden church structure was transported from the village of Finteușu Mare to the hill in 1926.
The monastery serves as a pilgrimage site for those interested in the connection between Romanian intellectual history and Orthodoxy.
Rohia Monastery, founded in 1926, is an Orthodox monastic site situated on a hill known as 'Dealul Viei' near Târgu Lăpuș. The monastery gained prominence as the home of theologian and writer Nicolae Steinhardt, who lived there as a monk from 1980 until his death in 1989. The current wooden church, moved from a nearby village in 1926, serves as the spiritual heart of the complex. The site includes an extensive library housing thousands of theological, historical, and literary volumes. It functions as a center for religious life and cultural research in the Maramureș region. Its architecture features traditional wooden elements characteristic of the surrounding area. The site overlooks the Lăpuș River valley, providing clear views of the Gutâi Mountains. It is currently an active religious establishment with ongoing monastic life.
The terrace near the main entrance offers the most expansive view of the surrounding hills and valley.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the approach involves a steep incline from the valley floor.
Be prepared for changing mountain weather by carrying a light waterproof layer even in summer.
Maintain silence, as this is an active monastery with resident monks.
Taking photographs inside the church without explicit permission from the monastic authorities.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered for all visitors. Headscarves are recommended for women.
