Frumoasa Quarter – Frumoasa Monastery

The Frumoasa Quarter, built as a result of the communist „sistematizare” (radical planning) in the 1980’s, takes its name from the fortified monastery that dominates the area. In 1729, the Moldavian Prince Grigore II Ghica restored an old monastery and transformed it into a little paradise, which served as Southern entrance into the city. Later on, the tower, the wall and two palaces were built, one for the ruler and the boyars and another one for the women. The latter was surrounded by a beautiful garden with flowers and artesian fountains. The dam on the Nicolina River also created an artificial lake for boat sailing, and thus the site became “Frumoasa” („the beautiful”). The church aspect dates from the restoration of 1812-1842, when four fake Russian-style towers were added. (PHOTO : Ozolin DUȘA)