Bărboi Church

The church was built between 1841-1844 by the Sturdza family, on the site of an old church erected by the headman Ursu Bărboi in 1615, dedicated to Mount Athos. On the roof, four small towers flank the central steeple of Greek inspiration. The church’s plan is rectangular, with small semicircular apses, and the stone blocks alternate with rows of bricks which reflect the Byzantine tradition. Inside, the harmony of the arcs leaning upon massive Carrara marble columns makes it unique in Romania. The remains of the patriot poet Alecu Russo are placed here, along with the tomb of the Sturdza family and the voivodes` tombs. The supple arched tower at the entrance hosts the bell room and the clock. The parochial house on the premises reproduces the model of traditional Moldavian houses. (PHOTO : Ozolin DUȘA)