Ciolanu Monastery

✨ Short description

Ciolanu Monastery, located in the commune of Tisău, Buzău County, is a monastic monastery, considered the most important in the area, dating from the 16th century. The complex includes two churches: the old church dedicated to “St. Great Martyr Gheorghe” and the large church dedicated to “Saints Apostles Peter and Paul”, built in 1828. There is also a museum which houses icons painted by Gheorghe Tattarescu, cult objects and religious vestments. The monastery is closely linked to the local history and traditions, with legends linked to founders such as Doamna Neaga and has been involved in the spiritual life of the region over the centuries. The nearby Magura Sculpture Camp completes the tourist offer of the area, attracting many visitors.

📜 History of the location

Ciolanu Monastery is documented in the 16th century, being considered the oldest monastic settlement in Buzău County. According to tradition, the monastery would have been founded by Doamna Neaga in 1590, but other sources indicate 1568 as the year of foundation by the boyars Dumitru Ciolanu, Radu and Dragomir Sorescu from Vernești. According to the historian Constantin C. Giurescu, the founding date would be around 1570.

The old church, located on the hill, was built by the Sikhs who took refuge here after the Turkish conquest of Byzantium. The large church in the valley, dedicated to Saints Apostles Peter and Paul, was built between 1823-1828 by Bishop Chesarie of Buzăului and painted by Nicolae Teodorescu between 1828-1831.

In the 19th century, the monastery was badly damaged by fire, but was restored with the support of Bishop Filotei. Over the years, the relics of several saints, such as St. George, Panteleimon and Parascheva, were brought here.

⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location

The Ciolanu Monastery is a historical monument of reference in Romania, known for the icons painted by Gheorghe Tattarescu and for its remarkable architecture. The monastery’s museum houses religious objects, icons and religious books, including a copy of Coresi’s Tetraevangelium. The two churches, 100 meters apart, reflect different architectural styles and offer a unique spiritual experience.

🐉 Local myths and stories

The legend of the name “Ciolanu” suggests that it originates from the bones of some Sikhs discovered in the meadow where the monastery is located. Mrs. Neaga is said to have erected the old church in memory of a lost child or as a sign of gratitude for saving herself and her family from invaders.

🗺️ What to visit

Old Church (St. George): Situated on the hill, it is older and offers an atmosphere of silence.
The big church (St. Apostles Peter and Paul): Built in 1828, with paintings by Nicolae Teodorescu.
Monastery Museum: It houses icons, cult objects and religious books.
Magura Sculpture Camp: Located 200 meters from the monastery, it is an open-air exhibition of stone sculptures.

📍 How to get there

Access from Buzău on DN 10 (Buzău-Brașov), DJ 100H-DJ 203G, then 7 km to the monastery. The GPS coordinates are N 45.2356, E 26.5472. It is recommended to follow the local signposts to avoid wrong routes.

The access is from Buzău on DJ 100H (towards Tisău) then on DJ 203G or from Măgura commune, from DN 10 Buzău – Brașov take DJ 203G.

🔎Things to keep in mind

Accessibility: The road is paved, but visitors are advised to be aware of weather conditions.
Code of conduct: Visitors are asked to be quiet and wear decent attire.
Contact information: 0753 342 854 / 0783 234 588.

⏳ Visiting hours and Fees

The monastery is open daily and times may vary depending on religious services. Contact the monastery for further information.

Admission is free but donations are welcome for the upkeep of the monastery.

🏛 Sights nearby

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