Stone church Naeni
✨ Short description
The Stone Church in Năeni is a unique landmark, built entirely of locally quarried limestone, located on the highest hill in the Dealu Mare area. The project was initiated by Manole Gabriel and finalized by Florin Jean Utica, who fully financed the work. The interior painting, done in the Byzantine style in the Greek tradition, and the hand-carved stone catapet are distinctive features. The churchyard offers a spectacular view of the Carpathian Mountains and the Romanian Plain and is a major tourist attraction. Nearby are the Năeni sculpture camp and Thracian tombs.
📜 History of the location
The church was built from Năeni stone, material extracted from the local quarry, and was initiated by Manole Gabriel, the first investor in the area. Florin Jean Utica from Bucharest took over and finalized the project, providing the necessary financing. The church was built to reflect the durability and purity of local materials and is a cultural symbol of the region.
⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location
The church is remarkable for its all-stone architecture and its carved “catapeza”, a rarity in European Orthodoxy. The interior paintings, in Byzantine style, follow the work of the Greek monk Dionysius of Furna. The “Strana”, also carved in stone, adds a unique charm to the location. The location offers an extraordinary view to the Dealu Mare area.
🐉 Local myths and stories
Local legend has it that the church was built as a symbol of faith and durability, and the material used reflects the centuries-old tradition of stone carving in Năeni.
🗺️ What to visit
- Main Church: The centerpiece of the site, with unique paintings and sculptures.
- Inner courtyard: Offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
- Năeni Sculpture Camp: An impressive collection of works created by teenage artists at the camp.
📍 How to get there
Access is from DN 1B (Buzău-Ploiești), through Săhăteni and then Năeni, following DJ 205.
🔎Things to keep in mind
- Code of conduct: Respect the silence and the sacredness of the location.
- Accessibility: Suitable for small vehicles only; large buses are not recommended.
- Weather: Being located on a high hill, visiting may be influenced by weather conditions.
⏳ Visiting hours and Fees
Area is accessible all year round, but the church is only open for special occasions.
Admission is free, but donations are appreciated for the upkeep of the site.