Stavropoleos Monastery (Manastirea Stavropoleos)
Strada Stavropoleos, Bucharest, Wallachia, 030167
Located in central Bucharest, Stavropoleos Church (Biserica Stavropoleos, also known as Stavropoleos Monastery, is one of the oldest churches in the city. Built in the 18th century, this small, ornately-decorated church is considered one of the most beautiful in the city, and offers an oasis of peace in the heart of Old Town Bucharest.
The basics
Stavropoleos Church was built in the Brâncoveanu architectural style and is renowned for its ornate façade, adorned with patterned frescoes. Admire the intricately carved wooden doors, carved stone columns, and tiled domes topping the small towers on the exterior. Step inside and be dazzled by an interior covered with frescoes and gilded icons. Don't miss the courtyard full of old tombs, and a library with Romania’s largest collection of rare Byzantine musical scores. Recitals and concerts of Byzantine music are held here regularly.
Stavropoleos Church is featured on a number of sightseeing tours. Many walking and bike tours of the Old Town will include a stop here, along with nearby attractions like Manuc’s Inn, Lipscani Street, or the Old Princely Court. Opt for a full-day Bucharest sightseeing tour and also see top attractions like the Palace of Parliament and the Village Museum.
Things to know before you go
- Stavropoleos Church is a must-visit for first-time visitors to Bucharest and architecture fans.
- It’s free to enter the church, but donations are accepted.
- Stavropoleos Church is an active place of worship, so please be respectful during your visit.
How to get there
Stavropoleos Church is located in the historic Lipscani neighborhood. It’s within easy walking distance of most sites in Old Town. The nearest metro stop is Universitate.
When to get there
Stavropoleos Church is open daily from 7am to 8pm. Sunday mass is held at 9:30am and 10:30am. Try to time your visit for a musical concert or recital if possible. Check the church’s website for the latest schedule. Other important dates include feast day celebrations of important saints.
Brâncoveanu Style
Also known as the Wallachian Renaissance and Romanian Renaissance, the Brâncoveanu art and architectural style developed during the reign of Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, a patron of several churches and monasteries in Southern Romania. The style combines local, Byzantine, Ottoman, Renaissance, and baroque elements.
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