The name 'Plumbuita' derives from the Romanian word 'plumb', meaning lead, referring to the original lead roofing of the church.
The monastery hosted the first printing press in Bucharest, established here in 1573.
It was built during the reign of Prince Petru cel Tânăr (Peter the Younger) between 1560 and 1564.
The complex underwent significant restoration in the early 20th century, directed by architect Grigore Cerchez.
The interior frescoes have been repainted several times due to fires and structural damage over the centuries.
It originally functioned as a fortress due to its location on a small hill surrounded by the Colentina river and marshes.
Plumbuita Monastery is a 16th-century Orthodox monastic complex situated on an island-like peninsula within Lake Plumbuita in the northeastern part of Bucharest. The church is noted for its distinctive 'Plumbuita' style, characterized by a roof originally covered in lead sheets to prevent fire. Founded by Petru cel Tânăr in the 1560s, the monastery served as a strategic defensive point and a significant center for early Romanian printing. The site contains a medieval church, a 19th-century bell tower, and a princely house that now functions as a museum. The complex is protected by high fortified walls and is surrounded by lush gardens that contrast with the surrounding urban landscape of the Colentina district.
From the park paths on the opposite side of the lake, capturing the monastery reflected in the water.
Walk along the edge of the surrounding lake for the best views of the monastery's fortification walls.
Respect the ongoing monastic life by maintaining a low volume inside the courtyard.
Visit the small museum collection located within the princely house to see historical religious artifacts.
Avoid taking photographs of the monks or during ongoing liturgical services.
Visitors are required to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees; women should cover their heads inside the church.
