Căluiu Monastery
Orthodox monastery in Olt County
What it feels like
Beeswax candles, the faint scent of incense, the distant chant from inside. Quiet courtyards walled against the rest of the world.
Căluiu Monastery stands in Călui commune, Olt County, and is dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Construction began during the reign of Neagoe Basarab (1512–1521), as a foundation of the boyars Vladul Ban — grandfather of the Buzești brothers —, Dumitru Pârcălab and Balica Spătar.
Work resumed towards the end of the 16th century under the Buzești brothers — Radu, Preda and Stroe — and was completed on 8 June 1588, as the inscription carved in stone records.
The interior painting, made by the painter Mina in 1594, keeps two votive portraits: one of the Buzești brothers' family and one of Michael the Brave (Mihai Viteazul) and Petru Cercel. Preda and Radu Buzescu are buried in the monastery, which is a listed historic monument (LMI code OT-II-a-A-08808).
Work resumed towards the end of the 16th century under the Buzești brothers — Radu, Preda and Stroe — and was completed on 8 June 1588, as the inscription carved in stone records.
The interior painting, made by the painter Mina in 1594, keeps two votive portraits: one of the Buzești brothers' family and one of Michael the Brave (Mihai Viteazul) and Petru Cercel. Preda and Radu Buzescu are buried in the monastery, which is a listed historic monument (LMI code OT-II-a-A-08808).
Best time to visit
May through October for best access. Active monasteries — dress respectfully.
How to get there
The monastery is in Călui commune, Olt County, less than 15 km from Balș and about 40 km from Slatina.
