Manastirea rupestra Sinca Veche

## Overview Mănăstirea Rupestră Sinca Veche (the Rock-Hewn Monastery of Sinca Veche) is a remarkable cave monastery located in the hills near the village of Șinca Veche, in Brașov County, Romania. Often referred to as the "Temple of Wishes" or "Temple of Destiny" by locals, this ancient site is one of Romania's most enigmatic and spiritually significant landmarks. The monastery is carved directly into sandstone rock and is believed by some researchers to date back over 7,000 years, though its documented history as a Christian hermitage extends to the medieval period. The cave complex features a small chapel adorned with carved symbols — including a Star of David, a yin-yang-like motif, and Christian crosses — leading to speculation that the site served as a place of worship for multiple spiritual traditions over the millennia. A natural spring emerges near the monastery grounds and has long been considered sacred by pilgrims and visitors. The water from this spring has historically been used as a drinking water source by monks and visitors alike, and many locals regard it as having beneficial or even healing properties. The spring is publicly accessible and is a traditional stop for those making the pilgrimage to the cave monastery. The surrounding landscape is a mix of forested hills and pastoral countryside typical of the Transylvanian foothills of the Southern Carpathians, making the journey to the monastery as scenic as the destination itself. ## Directions 1. From **Brașov**, head northwest on the E68/DN1 toward Făgăraș (approximately 60 km). 2. Before reaching Făgăraș, turn right (north) toward the village of **Șinca Veche** — follow signs for "Mănăstirea Rupestră" or "Templul Ursitelor." 3. Pass through Șinca Veche village and continue on the local road heading into the hills. The road narrows and becomes a forest track in the final stretch. 4. After approximately 3–4 km from the village center, you will reach a small parking area near the monastery grounds. 5. From the parking area, a short uphill footpath (roughly 10–15 minutes on foot) leads to the cave monastery and the spring. **GPS Coordinates:** 45.755609, 25.166906 The official monastery website — [manastirea-sincaveche.ro](https://www.manastirea-sincaveche.ro/) — may provide updated access information and visiting hours. ## What to Expect Visitors will find a peaceful, forested setting with the cave monastery carved into a sandstone cliff face. The spring is located near the monastery entrance area and typically flows year-round, though flow may vary seasonally. The water has been historically used for drinking by pilgrims, though as with any natural spring, water quality cannot be guaranteed. The footpath from the parking area is moderately steep and can be slippery in wet conditions — sturdy footwear is recommended. The site is open to visitors and does not charge an entrance fee, though donations are welcomed. The cave interior is small and atmospheric, with carved niches, an altar area, and the mysterious multi-faith symbols that have fascinated historians and spiritual seekers for decades. The area is especially popular during warmer months (May–October), and weekends can draw larger crowds of both tourists and pilgrims. Early morning visits offer the most tranquil experience. In winter, access may be more difficult due to snow on the forest road and trail.