The monastery hill – an old treasure with a new soul in the heart of the Ungheni district – the angle – see the world as it is!

Hidden between the gentle valleys of Moldova, in the vicinity of the village of Boghenii Vechi, part of Boghenii Noi commune in Ungheni district, is elevated the monastery hill – a place with legend and deep peace. The hill is not only a geographical height, but a true bridge between the historical past and the living present of the community.

A corner of history with deep roots

Boghenii Vechi, the village under the hill of the monastery, bears a history that is lost in the dark of the times. Mentioned in documents since 1426, that is, before the reign of Stephen the Great, this village bears the imprint of an ancient inheritance. « The hill that watches the town would have received its name from a monastery that, according to local legends, would have existed on its peaks, although today only a solitary cross reminds of those times, » says Valentina Postolachi, a local.

The cross and the fountain – landmarks of the place

On the peak of the hill, the simple stone cross dominates the surroundings, silent waking over the village and those that climb there. Not far from it is an old fountain, with cold and clear water – a real but for hiking up. Valentina Postolachi adds that the fountain has « grace » water. « Some locals come especially to take water from there, especially around the holidays, » she says.

From above, the view cuts your breath: you can see the neighboring villages, the gentle hills of the Ungheni and the forests that extend as you see. It is a perfect place for rest, contemplation and exits with the family.

A festival that reborn tradition

For two years now, the monastery hill has become the host of one of the most beloved events in the district: the Easter Festival. It is organized by the local public authorities in partnership with public institutions. Here, the localities throughout the district of Ungheni gather to celebrate together, each proudly bringing traditional dishes: steaming sarmale, baked pies, roast lamb, red eggs and coconuts with walnut and poppy. The preparations are judged, and the most tasty receive prizes, but the true reward is the joy of keeping the recipes of the ancestors.

Music, joy and fun for the little ones

In addition to the gastronomic side, the festival also offers a rich artistic program. Loved performers from all over Moldova climb on stage and bring songs that sound over the hills, to the delight of the gathered. The atmosphere is one of authentic holiday – hot, clean, Moldovan.

The children are not forgotten: for them special fun places are arranged, with slides, trampolines. It is the place where each generation finds their joy.

As at the festival, many works of various popular crafts are prepared in time, who come with traditional objects, painted icons, set eggs and handmade fabrics. The atmosphere is one of authentic holiday: the smell of coconuts and Easter, sounds of bells and folk songs that sound around. Locals and visitors gladly gather to admire the old habits, popular dances and to enjoy the spirit of Easter, kept with sanctity from generation to generation.