Ana Rohia Monastery, Maramureș

1. Courtyard, the tomb of Archbishop Chira

The courtyard of Rohia Monastery welcomes you with a deep tranquility and a warm atmosphere, enveloped by the thick woods that surround the entire settlement. The well-kept alleys, lined with flowers and tall trees, lead you naturally to the main points of interest in the enclosure, while offering numerous places to stop for a moment of silence.

The tomb of Archbishop Justinian Chira, one of the most respected figures of the Orthodox Church in Maramureș, is a place with a special spiritual charge. Located right in the monastery courtyard, the tomb is simple but well-kept, and constantly attracts the faithful who come to light a candle or say a prayer.

The presence of this resting place adds depth to the experience of the visit, recalling the strong bond between the monastery and the local community. It is a space where time seems to slow down and silence becomes part of every visitor's experience.

2. „St. Anne” Church”

„St. Ana” Church is the spiritual heart of Rohia Monastery and the place where the main religious services are held. Built in a traditional style, with specific influences of Maramureș architecture, the church impresses with its elegant simplicity and deeply soothing atmosphere.

The interior is richly ornamented, with religious paintings depicting biblical scenes and the faces of saints, done in warm colors that contribute to a sense of peace and recollection. The light streaming through the narrow windows creates an intimate ambience, ideal for prayer and reflection.

The church dedicated to St. Anne is celebrated annually on July 26, when the monastery becomes an important place of pilgrimage. During this period, many pilgrims climb the Rohiei Hill to attend the services and experience the special atmosphere of this moment.

Visiting the church offers not only a spiritual experience, but also a cultural one, being a representative example of tradition and faith from Maramureș.

3. „St. Nicholas” Chapel and Icon of the Mother of God

The „St. Nicholas” Paraclete is a smaller space, but particularly important in the spiritual life of Rohia Monastery. Here more intimate services are celebrated and the atmosphere is deeply peaceful, ideal for personal prayer and recollection.

A particular point of attraction is the Icon of the Virgin Mary, considered a miracle-worker by the faithful. Many visitors come especially to pray in front of this icon, seeking comfort, hope or answers in difficult times. Local tradition has it that many prayers have been answered here, which has contributed to the fame of the chapel.

The interior is simple but full of symbolism, and the tranquility that reigns here creates a deep connection between the visitor and spirituality. The Paraclete harmoniously complements the monastery as a whole, offering a more personal and introspective experience to those who cross its threshold.

4. New Church and Cultural Center „Nicolae Steinhardt”

The new church of Rohia Monastery completes the monastery complex by its larger size and the practical role it plays on days with a large number of believers. Built in a style that combines tradition with modern elements, it offers a generous space for services, while preserving the atmosphere of tranquillity and recollection typical of the place.

Nearby is the „Nicolae Steinhardt” Cultural Center, a point of interest for those interested in literature, spirituality and history. It houses an impressive library with thousands of volumes, many of which were donated by Nicolae Steinhardt, the monk and writer who lived here in the last years of his life.

Visitors can discover rare manuscripts and books, as well as details about the life and work of Steinhardt, the author of the famous „Diary of Happiness”. The cultural center transforms a visit to Rohia into a complete experience, where spirituality blends harmoniously with culture, providing a deeper insight into this special place in Maramureș.