Bokancha Monastery

The Sts. Peter and Paul Monastery in Bokancha – history, spirituality, and nature

If you're traveling through Moldova and want to see little-known but historically significant places, be sure to include the St. Peter and Paul Monastery in Bocancea on your itinerary . Situated in a picturesque area just 105 kilometers from Chisinau , it's ideal for those seeking tranquility, a touch of history, and natural beauty.

The monastery was founded in 1869 as a hermitage of the Hîrjeuca Monastery . The land for its construction was purchased from Leon Bocancea, and the original plan was to relocate residents of the village of Hîrjeuca there. However, the peasants refused to move, and Archbishop Anthony established a monastic farm on the property. By 1872 , a stone church dedicated to the Apostles Peter and Paul had been built .

In 1920, the hermitage was named Bokancha in honor of the former owner of the estate, and between the two world wars it became an independent monastery with its first abbot, Archpriest Gurie Teutu.

Like many Moldovan monasteries, Bocancea experienced difficult times during the Soviet period : the church was used as a grain warehouse and tobacco dryer, the cells became a kindergarten, and the monastery utensils and icons were destroyed.

The monastery's revival began in 1991 thanks to the efforts of monk Bartholomew, who established a convent there. From 1994 to 1997, extensive restoration work was carried out under the auspices of Hîncu Monastery, and in 1998 the monastery was restored to a monastery, gaining independent status.

Why you should visit the Sts. Peter and Paul Monastery in Bokancha:

Historical value – more than 150 years of spiritual life and unique 19th-century architecture.
Picturesque nature - the monastery is surrounded by forests and fields, making it an ideal place for quiet walks and photo sessions.
Spiritual heritage - the Church of Peter and Paul and the monastery complex bear centuries-old history of Orthodox culture.
Peace and quiet - there are no crowds of tourists here, which creates a special atmosphere of tranquility.

How to get there:

By car - the road is convenient, picturesque, approximately 1.5–2 hours from Chisinau.
By minibus - from the central bus station of Chisinau, heading towards the Hîrjeuca district.
Along the way , you can stop by other monasteries in the region, such as Hîrjeuca and Hîncu, to complete a complete spiritual route.

The St. Peter and St. Paul Monastery in Bocancea is a place where history, faith, and nature merge. A visit will not only introduce you to Moldova's spiritual life but also savour the peace afforded by these ancient walls and the surrounding landscape.