Zăbriceni Monastery

The Monastery of the Nativity of the Lord in Zabrychany is a spiritual center and educational monastery.

If you're planning a trip to Moldova and want to experience the country's contemporary spiritual life, be sure to visit the Nativity of the Lord Monastery , located in the village of Zabriceni . The monastery combines religious heritage, educational programs, and modern architectural design, making it a unique destination for Orthodox pilgrimages.

The founding of the monastery

On August 4, 1999 , the feast day of the Holy Martyr Foka, the monastery was founded in the premises of the former Albinuţa Sanatorium. Initially, eight monks settled here, led by Abbot Damian , abbot of the Skete of the Holy Martyrs Vincent and Dormidont, subordinate to the Novo Neameț Monastery (Chitcani) .

Educational activities

Immediately after the monastery's founding, with the blessing of Bishop Dormidont, the Saint Martyr Phocas Theological Lyceum for Men was established in September 1999. Over the years, approximately 200 people have graduated from the seminary , becoming clergy and educators.

In 2004, the Edinet Theological Faculty was established on the monastery grounds , becoming a higher theological educational institution. The faculty library is the largest in Moldova , containing over 12,000 books and 60,000 electronic works .

In 2007, the Theological Lyceum was renamed in honor of Bishop Dormidont and continued to provide students with a lyceum-level education in the humanities, with a basic course in theology . Graduates receive two diplomas: a bachelor's degree and a theological diploma , and the course of study lasts three years . The head of the educational institution and abbot of the monastery is Archimandrite Damian (Burlaku) .

Spiritual life and architecture

In 2005, a unique Zabrichanskaya icon of the Mother of God was brought from a workshop in Romania and became a sacred relic of the monastery.

In 2007, construction of a church complex , including a cathedral and two chapels , was completed on the monastery grounds . By that time, the monastic community numbered 11 people . Today, the monastery actively welcomes pilgrims, tourists, and students from theological schools.

Why you should visit the Monastery of the Nativity of the Lord

A modern spiritual center: an active monastic community and service to parishioners;
Educational monastery: theological lyceum and theological faculty with the largest library in Moldova;
Shrines: Zabrichanskaya Icon of the Mother of God;
Infrastructure for visitors: cathedral, chapels, well-maintained territory;
Accessibility: easily accessible from Chisinau and surrounding areas.

Result

The Nativity of the Lord Monastery in Zabriceni is a unique place where spiritual practice, education, and contemporary religious life come together. A visit to the monastery leaves a profound impression and allows one to experience the contemporary Orthodox tradition of Moldova.