The monastery was built specifically to serve as a memorial for the heroes who died at the Iron Gates during World War I.
Founder Pamfil Șeicaru lived in exile in Spain and Germany after fleeing Romania, and his remains were repatriated to the monastery grounds in 2006.
The interior paintings were completed in the 1930s and were restored later in the century to preserve the original artistic intent.
The site is located at an altitude that provides a strategic visual vantage point over the border region between Romania and Serbia.
Saint Ana Monastery is a prominent religious site perched on Dealul Moșului in Orșova, overlooking the Danube River and the Iron Gates gorge. It was founded in 1936 by the journalist Pamfil Șeicaru as a gesture of gratitude for surviving World War I. The monastery grounds house a small wooden church featuring interior murals painted by the artist Sorana Țopa. The complex contains a museum dedicated to Pamfil Șeicaru, showcasing historical documents and personal artifacts. Its location offers expansive views of the Danube river basin where the Cerna river converges with the Danube. The site transitioned from a monastery to a tourist attraction and memorial during the communist era before returning to active religious use. The architecture reflects traditional Romanian monastic styles integrated with early 20th-century memorial design.
The terrace area near the outer fence facing south towards the Danube and the Iron Gates.
Bring a light jacket, as the altitude and proximity to the Danube often result in cooler breezes.
Respect the ongoing religious services; avoid loud conversation near the church entrance.
Look for the wooden memorial plaques located near the entrance for historical context regarding the monastery's foundation.
Attempting to drive up the narrow access road during peak weekend traffic, as parking space at the summit is very limited.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is expected within the church compound.
