Medieval History Tour in Moldova: Old Orhei & Curchi Monastery

Pick-up & Welcome
We start with a comfortable pick-up from your accommodation in Chișinău, where you’ll be warmly greeted by your professional local guide and begin an unforgettable journey.

This tour is truly the best that Moldova has to offer today.

Our journey continues to one of the most beautiful and impressive monasteries in Moldova — Curchi Monastery. Surrounded by forests and peaceful countryside, this remarkable Orthodox complex feels like a hidden paradise.

Founded in the 18th century, Curchi Monastery is famous for its stunning architecture, elegant domes, and one of the tallest church domes in Moldova. Carefully restored, the monastery shines today as a symbol of faith, resilience, and spiritual life.

Here, you’ll have time to explore the grounds, admire the detailed frescoes, and enjoy the calm atmosphere that makes this place so special. It’s a perfect moment to relax, reflect, and experience Moldova’s deep religious and cultural heritage.

Continue toward Moldova’s most iconic historical destination, Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Natural Reserve, also known as Old Orhei. Dramatically located on limestone cliffs above the winding Răut River valley, this open-air archaeological and cultural complex reveals the fascinating story of Moldova’s medieval past.

Our adventure takes us to Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi), the country’s most iconic historical and cultural landmark. Set among dramatic limestone cliffs above the Răut River valley, Old Orhei showcases an extraordinary collection of archaeological treasures, cave monasteries and monastic complexes, medieval ruins, and fascinating museums.

Together, these sites reveal the many layers of civilizations, cultures, and peoples who have lived here — from prehistoric times through the medieval period and into the present day. Walking through Old Orhei is like stepping back in time, where every path and stone tells a story waiting to be discovered.

The architectural ensemble of the Medieval Mosque and Caravanserai was constructed during the period of Mongol domination between 1350 and 1365. This complex reflects the cultural, religious, and commercial life of the era, combining sacred architecture with facilities that supported long-distance trade.

Step back in time as you walk through ancient cave monasteries, archaeological remains, and scenic hilltop trails with panoramic views over the valley. Discover the traditional villages of Trebujeni and Butuceni, where local families preserve Moldovan customs, warm hospitality, and authentic rural lifestyles.

During the tour, you will have free time for an optional traditional Moldovan lunch featuring homemade specialties, local wine, fresh cheese, seasonal vegetables, and authentic countryside flavors prepared by local guesthouses.

Throughout the journey, your expert local guide will share captivating stories, legends, historical facts, and hidden corners of Old Orhei, bringing Moldova’s medieval heritage vividly to life.

Welcome to Eco-Resort Butuceni, one of the most picturesque places in Moldova. Our experiences have been created to give you the most pleasant stay in our complex. You enjoy a gastronomic experience, or participate in a culinary master-class offered by the most welcoming chefs. Moreover, we also have a mini zoo where you can spend a nice day with the whole family.

Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei) has two museums in the village of Butuceni that allow visitors to go deeper into the history and culture of the area. The Museum of Archeology and Anthropology to help visitors understand the area’s vast history and archeological findings from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages through different historical exhibitions. The Ethnography Museum located n a traditional Moldovan country house preserves the cultural and rural traditions of this area from the 19th to 20th centuries.

The Old Orhei cave monastery “Peştera” located at the northern edge of Butuceni village is one of the main attractions for visitors to Orheiul Vechi. The monastic complex dates back to the 15th century and consists of two basic units: the church and the body of monastic cells. Above the monastic complex, on the surface of the Butuceni promontory (ridge) is installed a stone cross (17th-18th centuries) and Bell Tower (1820).

This Monastery of the Birth of the Virgin Mary is located in Butuceni village and dates back to the 15th- and 16th centuries, when there was a small wooden church at the site of the current building. The work of the monastery is closely linked to that of the Peștera (the Cave) hermitage. Over the next three centuries, there is no evidence of the activity of the hermitages in the area.

By the end of the 19th century. the monastic life in the region began to be revived. In 1905, the Monastery of the Birth of Virgin Mary was sanctified and reopened. However, after the establishment of the Soviet regime, the Monastery of the Birth of Virgin Mary, including the hermitage of the cave, was converted into an open air museum.