Mănăstirea Brâncoveanu (Sâmbăta de Sus)

Brâncoveanu Monastery at Sâmbăta de Sus, at the foot of the Făgăraș Mountains, is one of the most important and best-loved Orthodox sites in Transylvania. Founded in the early 18th century by prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, it was destroyed by the Austrians and rebuilt and extended in the 20th century by Metropolitan Nicolae Bălan, becoming a great spiritual and cultural centre. The Brâncovenesc-style complex, with fine stone frames and open porches, is mirrored in a lake, in a superb natural setting with the Făgăraș ridges as a backdrop.

The monastery hosts an academy, a glass-icon painting workshop and a museum, and is renowned for its spring, considered healing. It is a natural stop for those setting out on the Transfăgărășan or exploring the Făgăraș country. Respect the dress code and the calm of the place, and check the service and museum hours.