Țipova Monastery · Mănăstirea Țipova
Țipova rock monastery — carved into the cliff 100m above the Nistru, site of Stephen the Great's wedding to Maria Voichița, Orpheus burial legend.
Descent via old staircase + tour of 3 rock ensembles + optional visit to Orpheus legend waterfall.
Țipova rock-cut monastery (Rezina district, 42km south of Rezina), on the right bank of the Nistru, **is carved into the cliff 100m above the river**. Complex of **3 rock-cut monastic ensembles** with cells, balconies, terraces on 3 levels, church and bell tower, remains of grand staircase descending to the Nistru. **According to tradition, Stephen the Great married Maria Voichița here**. For long periods it served strategically — refuge against invasions of Huns, Scythians, Mongols, Poles, Tatars, Ottomans. Closed in 1949 by Soviet regime, reopened 1994. **Popular legend**: through the rock galleries it is said that **mythological singer Orpheus** is buried in one of the caves near the local waterfall.
- rock-cut monastery carved into cliff
- Stephen the Great's wedding to Maria Voichița
- 3 rock ensembles on 3 levels
- Orpheus burial legend
- 100m above Nistru
- historic refuge against invasions
- rock window with Nistru behind
- old staircase carved in stone
- rock church interior with candles
- multi-level terrace with panoramic view
- Țipova waterfall
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“A beautiful spot atop the hill. Easily accessible from the road in Butuceni either opposite the cafe in the centre or up the hill from the ethnographic museum. The monastery is burrowed underground and you’re free to wander down and explore. There’s an opportunity to donate or buy some postcards etc. Men are advised not to wear shorts or hats and women are provided with shawls …”
“Tipova Monastery is definitely worth visiting if you’re in Moldova. The place is peaceful, full of history, and the view over the Dniester River is beautiful. But be ready for a bit of a hike the walk from the parking area down to the monastery is long, with uneven steps and rocky paths. If you’re going with kids or older people, take it slow and bring water and proper shoes. O…”
“Beautiful place lots of info in English , it cost a little fee to go in ,you will need cash and it's a tough walk to get to it if your not physically fit , not long but steep. Worth the views though ,such a cool place highly recommended”
- difficult access via old stairs
- modest dress
- no lift — not accessible for reduced mobility