"Saint Nicholas" Wooden Church in Colacu

Are you drawn to lesser-known and less-visited places? Are you ready to discover a hidden wooden gem nestled among the valleys of Moldova? Then you must visit the village of Colacu in the Fundul Moldovei commune.

The village is named after the shape of the river that flows through the mountain rock, and legend has it that it was founded by a family expelled from the neighboring village, suspected of plague.

Somehow, around 1800, a beautiful wooden church was built here, dedicated to Saint Nicholas. You'll spot it from afar; it's like a pearl of tranquility and humility. It is not painted on the inside or outside, but its wood endures. The interior walls are carved, and the height of the spire gives it a Gothic air.

Personalities from this village included painters, teachers, and even a former mayor of the city of Chernivtsi during World War II, Traian Popovici, known for saving 20,000 Jews from deportation. Between the church, the people around it, nature, and history, there is a close, special bond throughout Moldova.

You can visit the parish house, which is a museum, and meet Dorin Cocârță, a living human treasure, who will tell you wonderful stories. Surely, when you leave here, you'll be able to say you've discovered a lesser-known but enchanting place!

On the foundation of an old small church, whose iconostasis was preserved, the complex of the church in Colacu was built in 1800. The founder of the monastery, Gavril Ciupercovici, an archpriest, wished to be buried in the churchyard after his passing.

Testimonies of the church's antiquity include the inscriptions on the church bell, the inscription on the icon of the Virgin Mary, and the inscription on the cross of the craftsman Ioniță Șalvari.

Tourists visiting the church have the opportunity to participate in activities proposed by the church staff. Thus, you can participate in activities aimed at educating children in the spirit of moral-Christian values, developing love for others, encouraging good deeds, and encouraging respect for parents. Also, to encourage the expression of feelings through art and personal development, painting workshops, reading workshops, religious knowledge workshops, as well as workshops on traditions and customs are organized to preserve local customs.

Love for the surrounding environment, positive attitude, and the connection between man, nature, and God are supported by activities such as hiking and debates.