Cârnu Monastery
✨ Short description
The Cârnu Monastery, the oldest monastic settlement on the BuzăulValley, is located in the village of Tega, commune of Pănătău, Buzău county. Founded in 1546 by the voivode Mircea Ciobanu and his wife, Doamna Chiajna, the monastery was built on the site of an old monastery. Keeping the feast of “Saints Archangels Michael and Gabriel”, the church was renovated several times, and after a long period of neglect, it was reopened in 1991. Legend has it that the monastery’s name derives from a story about Mrs. Chiajna, who, hiding secret documents, was allegedly left with a flat nose. Today, the monastery is a place of tranquility and meditation, situated in a picturesque, easily accessible area and close to other tourist attractions such as the cave settlements of Colți and Aluniș.
📜 History of the location
The Cârnu Monastery dates back to 1546, being founded by the voivode Mircea Ciobanu in his second reign, together with his wife, Doamna Chiajna. It was built on the site of an old monastery in the Codrii Cislăului, around a wooden church dedicated to “Saints Archangels Michael and Gabriel”.
The monastery has undergone several stages of restoration over the years. Ruler Matei Basarab contributed in 1643 with repairs and donations, but from the 19th century the monastery went into decline, being temporarily occupied by Greek monks and then abandoned. After more than 140 years of inactivity, it was reopened in 1991 on the initiative of Bishop Epiphanius Epiphanius Norocel.
⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location
Cârnu Monastery is a symbol of the monastic tradition in the Buzău Mountains, being the oldest monastery of its kind in the Buzău Valley. Situated in a peaceful natural setting on a hilltop on the edge of a linden forest, the monastery offers an ideal place for meditation. It is known for its historical connection with important figures such as Mircea Ciobanu and Doamna Chiajna and for the fact that St. Paisie Velicicovschi lived here for a time.
🐉 Local myths and stories
A local legend says that during an Ottoman invasion, Doamna Chiajna hid in the church tower to protect the country’s secret documents. The cramped space between the walls allegedly forced her to stand with her nose pressed against the wall, which would have led to its flattening, inspiring the name “Horned” for the monastery. Although the explanation is considered rather symbolic, the story reflects Mrs. Chiajna’s spirit of sacrifice.
🗺️ What to visit
- Large church: Built in the traditional style, it is dedicated to the Saints Archangels Michael and Gabriel.
- Paraclery and chapels: recently built at the initiative of Fr Epifanie Norocel.
- Surrounding landscape: The area offers a picturesque natural setting, ideal for walks and contemplation.
📍 How to get there
The monastery is located 69 km from Buzău. The access is on DN 10 (Buzău-Brașov), from Pătârlagele, following the direction Zaharești, Măguricea and Tega (DC 72).
The GPS coordinates are N45.322387, E26.388497.
🔎Things to keep in mind
- Accessibility: The road is paved and accessible both by car and bus, but the area can become more difficult to cross in bad weather conditions.
- Code of Conduct: Visitors are encouraged to respect the quiet and reclusive atmosphere of the monastery.
⏳ Visiting hours and Fees
The monastery is open daily for visitors. For further details or to arrange a visit, please contact the monastery.
Admission is free, but donations are welcome for the upkeep of the monastery.