Tipova monastery
It may seem that there are no places on the territory of modern Moldova that can surprise an experienced traveler. That is why I want to talk about the unique monastery of Tsipova, which numerous pilgrims and tourists strive to get into. This holy place is located among the picturesque forested hills above the Dniester River.
Scientists still cannot determine the exact date of the foundation of the monastery. The most common version remains the period of the 10th-12th centuries, when a community was founded by monks on the site of Tipov. There is another version, according to which the monastery already existed in the 6th century, although it was later destroyed and rebuilt.
It is impossible to remain indifferent at the sight of amazing cells carved right into the rocks above the Dniester, to which paths hidden in tall grass run, which did not allow enemies to discover the monastery.
In 1776, the Monastery of the Assumption of the Mother of God was at its peak, being the largest rock monastery in all of Moldova. And now you can see traces of the painting that adorned the walls of the monastery, and if you imagine the numerous icons and massive columns that separated the impressive premises, it becomes clear why Prince Stefan the Great chose this place for his wedding with Maria Wojcica.
When the dangers of external invasion passed, a church was built on the territory of the monastery and convenient ways of communication with the outside world were laid. The troubles of the monastery began with the advent of Soviet power, when the monastery was closed and destroyed. Only in 1975 were the first attempts of the authorities to restore the rock monastery, and already in 1994 the monks resumed their activities. Now the cells meet all the needs of the ministers, heating has been provided for them, and they have been completely reconstructed.
There is a legend according to which it was in this unique place, surrounded by beautiful nature, that the poet Orpheus, the hero of myths and legends, lived for the last few years. They say that even his coffin was found here, only scientists disagree about the place of burial. Some testify that the poet was buried in one of the cells, others that at one of the waterfalls located in the immediate vicinity of the monastery.
Tipova monastery is covered with numerous legends. To believe or not to them, everyone chooses for himself, but one thing is known for sure - this place cannot leave anyone indifferent.