The rock rooms
Tunnels and stairs on three levels.
Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Diego Delso — CC BY-SA 4.0
Țipova Monastery is cut into a limestone cliff on the right bank of the Dniester, near the village of Țipova. The cliff rises about 100 m above the river, and its face is lined with rooms, windows and white walls. It is one of the strangest places in Moldova. The monastery spreads over three levels, with more than 20 rooms linked by tunnels and stairs. It holds three rock-cut churches: the Holy Cross from the 11th to 12th century, St Nicholas from the 14th century and the Dormition from the 16th to 18th century. The oldest document about it dates from 13 November 1699. Nine monks lived here in 2012. From the plateau, where a newer yellow church stands, you go down to a path along the cliff edge. You then walk under the overhanging rock and enter the rooms and rock churches, with the river in view from the windows. Nearby, the Țipova stream cuts through the rock in waterfalls up to 16 m high. This is a working monastery, so dress modestly and speak quietly. The monastery is 66 km in a straight line north of Chișinău, 27 km north-east of Orhei and 10 km south of Saharna Monastery. Entry is free. The path and steps are narrow and slippery after rain, so watch children.
Tunnels and stairs on three levels.
The Dniester from the cliff.
Up to 16 m high.
Țipova village, Rezina District, right bank of the Dniester
Yes: cover shoulders and knees, and women usually cover their hair.
The path and steps are narrow and slippery after rain; wear good shoes.