Văratic Monastery, located in Neamț County, under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitanate of Moldavia and Bucovina - Archdiocese of Iasi, is one of the most famous and visited monuments in the area and the largest female monastic settlement in Romania. Located in a special natural setting, at an altitude of up to 460 m, the monastery benefits from a mild climate and a submontane landscape with meadows and fir forests.
The history of the monastery begins around the years 1781-1785, when the Olympiad Monastery, with the help of Priest Iosif and other monks, founded a small hermitage. After 1790, the settlement became a hermitage and in 1839, through a charter of ruler Mihai Sturza, it was declared an independent monastery.
The monastery includes three main churches: "The Dormition of the Mother of God" (1808-1812), built of river stone and brick, in an eclectic style; "The Birth of Saint John the Baptist" (1844), in the Baroque style, and "The Transfiguration" (1847), founded by the Nun Eufrosina Lazu.
Monasticism, essential in Romanian spiritual life, was marked by periods of decadence and flourishing. Monastic prayer is fundamental, being considered a force that supports the Church and the whole world. Monks transform the world through their own repentance and inner light, having a profound spiritual impact on those around them.
Sursa: www.manastireavaratic.ro
