Trei Ierarhi Monastery

Trei Ierarhi Monastery in Iași centers on the Church of the Three Hierarchs, built in 1637-1639. The complex is best known for its richly carved stone exterior and its role as a dynastic mausoleum.

The principal attraction is the church’s exterior, covered in dense, intricate stone reliefs and patterns that cover walls and portals; this decorative program is distinctive for 17th-century Moldavia. Inside, visitors can see funerary monuments and historical burial sites associated with the monastery’s founders and patrons.

The monastery church was commissioned by Prince Vasile Lupu in 1637-1639 and served both liturgical and commemorative functions for Moldavian rulers. Over time the site expanded with ancillary monastic buildings and conservation work to preserve the carved stone surfaces.

Situated in the city of Iași in northeastern Romania, the monastery sits within the urban fabric of the city and is within walking distance of other historic churches and civic landmarks.

• Carved stone facade: Exterior stonework features dense sculpted ornamentation from the 17th century that is unique in Moldavian architecture.
• Founding and burials: Founded by Prince Vasile Lupu in the late 1630s and retains funerary monuments of Moldavian rulers.

What to See #

• Church of the Three Hierarchs: Built between 1637 and 1639 by Prince Vasile Lupu, the main church is notable for an intricately carved stone facade that mixes Byzantine and local Moldavian motifs.
• Burial chapel and tombs: Royal tombs and funerary ensemble dating from the 17th century contain burials of local rulers and patrons who founded and maintained the monastery.