Kurki Monastery

Curchi Monastery: Moldova's Spiritual and Historical Heritage

Curchi Monastery is located in the Orhei district of Moldova, in a picturesque area at the source of the Cogylnic River, just 55 km from Chisinau. This monastery is one of the oldest monastic complexes in the region, founded in 1678, and is an important site for spiritual and cultural tourism.

History of the monastery

According to legend, the first monastic community was founded by Iordache Kuri , a resident of the nearby village of Morozen , who took monastic vows under the name John . On his own land, he built a wooden church in honor of the holy Great Martyr Demetrius , marking the beginning of monastic life in the area.

There are also more dramatic legends about Iordache's past. One tells that he once led a band of robbers who terrorized Codri. One fateful evening, the bandits killed a man and a woman on the road, who turned out to be Iordache's parents. After this tragic event, he repented, founded a monastery, and became a monk. Following his example, some of the robbers also became monks. The truth of this story is unknown, but it lends the place a special mystical atmosphere.

Architecture and complex

The modern monastery complex was formed in 1773. It is built on two terraces—upper and lower—and surrounded by a stone wall with corner towers. Cells for the brethren are located around the perimeter of the complex, and a stone pool-pond remains on the lower terrace. In 1880, the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary was built , which today serves as the monastery's central spiritual center.

Why you should visit

Kurki Monastery attracts tourists not only for its history, but also for its solitude, natural beauty, and spiritual strength. Here you can:

Stroll along the ancient terraces of the monastery and see the stone buildings.
Get acquainted with the history of the monastery’s founding and its legends.
Enjoy the picturesque views of the Kogylnik River and surrounding forests.
Experience the atmosphere of peace and tranquility that Moldova's monasteries have preserved for centuries.

Practical information

Location: Orhei district, at the source of the Kogilnic River, 55 km from Chisinau.
Opening hours: the monastery is open for visits every day.
Tourist infrastructure: on the territory you can see the fraternal cells and the temple, and also stroll through the surrounding area.
Getting there: Regular buses and minibuses run from Chisinau and Orhei; excursions can also be booked through travel agencies.

Curchi Monastery is a great place for those who want to combine the history, culture, and nature of Moldova , learn local legends, and enjoy the tranquility of an ancient monastery.

At the end of the 19th century, the abbot's quarters with a winter church, monastic cells and a fence with a gate tower were built, and a winter church was built.

The Winter Church is a monument of the neo-Byzantine style.

From 1958 to 2002, the Kurki Monastery was closed and a psychiatric hospital was located on its territory.

The restoration of the monastery is currently being completed.

The main entrance to the monastery grounds