Mănăstirea Basarabi

The first Christian centuries, fueled by the faith of the martyrs and those who lived in asceticism and prayer, also flourished in Dobrogea (formerly Scythia Minor). Saint Andrew the Apostle, the first called, spread Christianity in these lands, and one of the remarkable places of sacrifice and prayer is the Cave Ensemble from Basarabi, with roots in the III-IV centuries.

In this oasis of tranquility, the monks carved into the limestone places of prayer for the salvation of their souls. Over the course of seven centuries, the Basarabi Cave Complex was built, a place of great spiritual power, with cells and small churches decorated with cave drawings that reflect the deep faith of its inhabitants.

The link between earthly and heavenly life is demonstrated by the tombs and martyrdoms in churches and cells, keeping the flame of faith alive for seven centuries. The numerous inscriptions on the walls attest to the continuity of prayer, such as that of the priest Damian, who lights candles for himself and the travelers.

An inscription from the 7th century mentions the passage of pagans who did not desecrate the church, showing respect for the holy place. However, in the 11th century, the Pecheneg pagans interrupted the monastic life at Basarabi in 1138.

The place was forgotten until 1957, when it was rediscovered during the works on the Danube-Black Sea Canal. The communist leadership restored the site and diverted the canal's path to protect the sacred complex.

In 2001, the Archbishopric of Tomis revived the monastic hearth under the name of Basarabi Monastery, with the patron saint "Saint Hierarch Theotim". In 2005, at the urging of Archbishop Teodosie, the monastery was re-established, bringing here two monks.

With the support of the faithful and the local authorities, a chapel church and a body of cells were built, and a large church and other annexes necessary for the monastery were to be built. The monastery, located on a hill guarding the city of Murfatlar, becomes a beacon of faith for all who cross its threshold.

Today, the monastery has three livings, led by abbot Teotim Popa, who continues the tradition of prayer and piety of his predecessors.

Sursa: arhiepiscopiatomisului.ro