Stavropoleos Monastery is a historic church and monastery complex in Bucharest Old Town, at Strada Stavropoleos nr. 4. You can visit the church, courtyard and gallery outside service times, and admission is free. The monastery is about a two-minute walk from an aparthotel in Bucharest Old Town.
- Location: Strada Stavropoleos nr. 4, Bucharest, Sector 3.
- Visiting hours: Open daily
- Admission: Free.
- Origins: Founded in 1724.
Where Stavropoleos Monastery sits in Old Town
Stavropoleos Monastery stands at Strada Stavropoleos nr. 4 in Bucharest’s Old Town. Its address places it among the area’s historic streets and other nearby sights, including the National Museum of Romanian History, Old Princely Court and Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse.
For a broader route through the district, connect the monastery with a first-day walk through Bucharest Old Town.
What to notice in the church and courtyard
The church and enclosed courtyard form the heart of Stavropoleos Monastery, whose architecture reflects the Brâncovenesc style, combining Byzantine, Greek and Oriental elements. Stone carvings and stuccowork decorate the church façade.
Founded in 1724 by Archimandrite Ioanichie, the church was built as a place of prayer for his small monastic community and for travellers staying at the inn in the compound.
The inn and its annexes were demolished at the end of the 19th century. The courtyard enclosure came later: architect Ion Mincu designed it in Neo-Romanian style in the early 20th century.
Inside the church porch, look for scenes from Genesis, the Seven Ecumenical Councils and miracles of the Archangel Michael. The church is dedicated to the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The complex also includes an exterior gallery, monastic cells, a library and a museum.
Visitor etiquette and access
You can visit the church, inner courtyard and gallery outside service times; the nuns’ cells, library and museum are reserved for research or documentation. The monastery holds services every day and on holidays, so plan your visit around prayer and other services.
Admission is free. For current service details and any changes to access, check the official site before you go.
Opening hours
- Monday to Saturday: 8:00–19:00
- Sunday: 12:00–19:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Nearby stops for a short Old Town walk
Pair the monastery with nearby historic sights for a compact Old Town walk. The National Museum of Romanian History, Old Princely Court and Pasajul Macca-Vilacrosse are among the nearby places to add to your route.
Hanul Gabroveni offers another historic stop in the district; it is about a three-minute walk from DeGoya Studios. You can include a visit to Hanul Gabroveni as part of the same outing.
FAQs
Is admission to Stavropoleos Monastery free?
Yes. Admission is free.
When can you visit Stavropoleos Monastery?
Visiting hours are Monday–Sunday, 08:00–19:00, subject to services, prayer and confession. The monastery holds services daily and on holidays.
Which parts of the monastery can you visit?
The church, inner courtyard and gallery are open to visitors outside service times. The nuns’ cells, library and museum are accessible for research or documentation.