Old Orhei

Old Orhei is a cultural site and geologic phenomena unlike any in the world. It is a mini-grand canyon dotted with religious sites.

Some locals paint their houses blue; the best reason I heard was to ward off mosquitoes.

The river and geologic formations at Orhei made for excellent natural defenses. The Golden Horde used it in the 14th century to shield their herd.

The Church of Saint Mary is maintained by Orthodox monks, who also inhabit cave churches below.

The church was recently renovated.

The entrance to one of the caves. This cave church was maintained by one very old monk, who slept there.

These are seashells in the walls of the cave. All of Moldova was once underwater.

An interesting restaurant was established in a limestone quarry near Old Orhei.

It has some great cave art.

Quite the stove