Snagov Monastery and Historic Bucharest

 

Depart from your hotel hotel and drive out of Bucharest – panoramic tour of downtown Bucharest, on the way to Snagov (~1h drive). Founded apparently in the 14th century by a shepherd named Bucur, Bucharest is also connected to Prince Vlad the impaler, as it got its 1st official mention in history, under this name, in a 1459 document from his court. Situated just 25 miles outside of Bucharest, Snagov is a very beautiful and historically relevant location. There is a small island on the lake with an amazing 15th century church on it, one in which, Vlad the Impaler aka Dracula is entombed. The tomb is the main attraction as it is parallel with the altar, so that the priest blesses it each time he walks over it. Accessing the island is easy, as there is a bridge connecting the lake shore with the island. The style of the church is Byzantine and the walls of it are covered in apparent brick. The place used to be a monastery, first attested in 1408, under the rule of Vlad the Impaler's grandfather. Over the centuries it was used as a treasury, as a prison, or as a place of refuge by the various rulers of Wallachia. In the late 16th century there was a printing press there, established by Monk Antim Ivireanu, which printed religious books in Greek, Slavic & Arab. The entire island is a true paradise, with gardens, flowers and secular trees and a trip to it is always a success. After the visit we drive back to the city and have lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch, you’re invited to an insightful guided walk through the oldest part of Bucharest which includes a look at the Princely Court (founded by Vlad the impaler). Thus, you will gain interesting knowledge about the medieval history of Bucharest, and not only. Return to the hotel. End of tour. Languages English