Visiting the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța in Transylvania

Our Romania holiday was filled with unforgettable experiences, from exploring Bucharest to the breathtaking mountain landscapes along the Transfăgărășan to the encounter with brown bears in the Carpathian Mountains. Each stop on our journey offered a unique glimpse into Romania’s rich history and natural beauty, making it a truly memorable adventure.

After landing in Bucharest, we spent a couple of nights at the Vienna House Easy by Wyndham Airport hotel, which gave us a chance to explore the capital city. From there, we drove to Brașov and stayed for a few nights, using it as a base to explore the surrounding areas. During our stay, we also drove along the famous Transfăgărășan highway, which was an incredible experience. Afterward, we based ourselves in the village of Arpașu de Jos (at Casa Suzy and Roxy Homestay), from where we visited the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța, which was about a 45-minute drive away. 

The Cistercian Abbey of Cârța, founded around 1205, is considered to be one of the oldest and easternmost Cistercian monasteries in Europe. Historically, it played a key role in the spread of religion and the development of the surrounding Transylvanian region, influencing agriculture and local architecture. Though largely in ruins today, the abbey’s Gothic-style church and monastic structures still showcase the simplicity and elegance characteristic of Cistercian design.

Architecturally, the abbey is a blend of Romanesque and early Gothic features, making it a must-see for those interested in medieval architecture. If you are passionate about history, architecture or spirituality then this is a good place for you. It is also a great destination for those seeking a peaceful, reflective experience in a scenic setting.

The Cistercian monks arrived in Cârța around 1205, sent from Western Europe to establish one of the easternmost Cistercian monasteries. The Cistercian Order which was founded in France in 1090s, was known for its strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict, emphasising on simplicity, manual labour and prayer. The monks chose remote, undeveloped areas for their monasteries, like the one at Cârța, where they could create self-sufficient communities through farming, building and religious life. The abbey at Cârța is a testament to this, as the monks not only left a spiritual legacy but also transformed the region through their work and presence.

In the 15th century, the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța faced a major turning point when it was dissolved under the orders of King Sigismund of Hungary. Following its dissolution, the monks were forced to leave and the abbey's properties were seized by the crown. The once-thriving spiritual and agricultural center fell into decline and over the centuries, much of the abbey's structures crumbled into ruins. Despite this, parts of the church and other buildings still stand tall today and you get a glimpse into the abbey's grand past and its significance in medieval Transylvania.

Several renovation and preservation efforts have been made over the years to maintain the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța. This work has ensured that key parts, like the church walls and tower, remain accessible to visitors. It was great to explore what remains of the abbey and its grounds and experience its medieval charm. 

When we visited the abbey, we were struck by the quiet beauty of the site. The abbey's church ruins are the main attraction, with its towering Gothic arches and weathered stone walls offering a glimpse into its former grandeur. Walking through the remains of the church, you can still feel the spiritual atmosphere that once filled these halls. Though much of the abbey is in ruins, the standing sections are still impressive, and it’s easy to imagine how magnificent the site must have been during its peak.

Just beside the abbey ruins is a small but solemn military cemetery, which holds the graves of soldiers who fought during World War I. It’s the kind of spot that makes you pause and reflect on both history and nature. 

If you are interested in history, architecture or simply looking for a peaceful place to escape the modern world, then a visit to this abbey is recommended.

After exploring the abbey ruins we went for a walk in the village. And this has to be one of the nicest villages we visited in Romania. It was clean, the public spaces were well-maintained and there were flowers everywhere. A very inviting vibe it had.

Fun fact: Did you know that the movie, the Nun (2018), was shot in Romania and that one of the locations was Cârța Abbey?

How to get to the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța

From Sibiu to the Cistercian Abbey of Cârța, the distance is about 45 kilometers (28 miles) and should take you approximately 45 minutes.

To reach the abbey from Sibiu, take the DN1 (E68) road heading east towards Brașov. The route is straightforward, and after about 40 kilometers, you will reach the village of Cârța. The abbey is located near the center of the village, and there are signs directing visitors to the site.

If you are travelling from Brașov to abbey, then the distance is about 100 kilometers (62 miles) and should take you around 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.

From Brașov, take the DN1 (E68) road heading west towards Sibiu. After about 90 kilometers, you’ll pass through the town of Făgăraș. Continue on the same road for another 10 kilometers until you reach the village of Cârța. The abbey is well-signposted and easy to find once you enter the village.

The Cistercian Abbey of Cârța is open to visitors during daylight hours, but specific opening times may be in place depending on the season. Generally, it's open from around 9am to 6pm, especially during peak tourist seasons in Spring and Summer.

We visited in September and the abbey was not busy, so we almost had the entire place to ourselves. In our opinion, around an hour should be ample time to explore the ruins, visit the small military cemetery and take in the peaceful surroundings. If you're interested, you can explore the village as well. Look out for the White Stork nests. You will find them on most electric pillars in the countryside.