Comana Monastery

<p>Comana Monastery is one of the most striking fortified monasteries in southern Romania. Founded in 1461 by Vlad the Impaler (documented!), rebuilt in 1588 by Radu Șerban as a fortified quadrangle, raised again between 1699-1700 — a historical stratification held in fortress walls.</p><p>Inside is a Brâncovenesc church with 1700 frescoes, the tomb of Radu Șerban (Voivode of Wallachia 1602-1611), a small museum, monks' cells. The inner courtyard has an old well and a monumental linden tree. Atmosphere is best on summer days when rain falls slowly on the gate wood.</p><p>The monastery stands in the middle of Comana Natural Park — 25,000 ha of oak forests, marshes, birds (300+ species), a stud farm. Protected since 2004. Bike trails, horse-cart rides, the peony forest that blooms in May (a unique reserve).</p><p>Tip: open year-round, free (donations for the museum). 35 km from Bucharest. Combine with a day in the park — rent a bike, eat at a local guesthouse, stop by the "Lumea de Sfat" engraving workshop in the village.</p>