Mănăstirea Ostrov Călimănești

Ostrov Monastery stands on a small island in the Olt River, in the resort of Călimănești in Vâlcea, in a natural setting that makes it seem to float above the water. It is considered one of the oldest nunneries in Wallachia, the present church having been founded in the early sixteenth century by the ruler Neagoe Basarab and his wife, Lady Despina. The small church preserves fragments of old wall painting and an atmosphere of contemplation heightened by the island's isolation. Around the church, the monastic community keeps gardens and cells, and the view over the Olt and the surrounding hills is remarkable.

The place has been tied to legends of healing waters in the area, near the mineral springs of Călimănești and Căciulata. Visitors can easily reach the island and combine a spiritual stop with a walk along the riverbank. Appropriate dress is recommended when visiting a place of worship.