SUCEVITA MONASTERY

Surrounded by high walls and well fortified towers, Sucevita is a great monastic complex that was founded in the late 16th century by Gheorghe Movila, Bishop of Radauti. You can witness an impressive structure with a steeple resting on a star shaped base and gigantic eaves protecting the outside frescoes that have been painted by local artists.

Enjoy looking at this breathtaking sight when you visit Romania which is also one of the eight painted churches from Bucovina that is on the UNESCO Heritage List. This monastery holds a place of immense significance in the history of mediaeval religious art as it marks the end of an era when creativity reached new levels in this part of the country.

Learn about the rich history of the monastery that goes back to the story of the grandsons of Moldavia’s most beloved prince, Stephen the Great. This was the last church in the entire region that had painted exterior walls during this time. Some of the most noteworthy paintings that you can see here include the Ladder of John Climax or The Ladder of Virtue, or Prayer of all Saints that covers seven walls.

Highlights

• Wallow in the majestic sights of this great structure that boasts high walls, defensive towers, surrounding the monastery within
• Admire the spectacular architecture comprising an elegant steeple that rests on a star-shaped base atop the church
• Get mesmerised by the amazing frescoes made by local artists on the outer walls of the monument from 1602-1604
• Enjoy the marvellous depiction of the Ladder to Paradise with its red winged angels on a ladder to the heavens
• Enjoy looking at some of the other interesting works as well such as the Tree of Jesse or the Hymn to the Virgin