Cocoș Monastery
About Cocoș Monastery
Cocoș Monastery lies at the foot of a hill covered in lime forests, a few kilometres from Niculițel, in northern Dobruja. A hermits' skete, first mentioned in 1679, stood here before the monastery was founded in 1833 through the efforts of the monks Visarion, Gherontie and Isaia. The name comes from the nearby Cocoșului Hill.
The present three-domed church was built between 1911 and 1913 to plans by the architect Toma Dobrescu, replacing older churches demolished in 1910. The massive bell tower, about 30 m tall, dates from the time of Abbot Daniel (1862–1884); it burned in 1946, and the church and the tower were restored in 1954–1955. Since 1973 the monastery has kept the relics of the holy martyrs Zotikos, Attalos, Kamasis and Philippos, found in the crypt of the early Christian basilica at Niculițel, which makes it a place of pilgrimage.
What you can see
You can walk into the wide courtyard around which the ensemble's buildings stand, and visit the church. A mosaic of the Holy Trinity decorates its façade. The two wings of cells, with an upper floor, arcades and timber balconies, give the precinct the look of a monastery on Mount Athos. The bell tower stands guard over the entrance from the road.
Good to know
It is a working monastery of monks: visit quietly, outside services.
Information verified on 28 October 2026.
- The three-domed church, with the Holy Trinity mosaic on its façade.
- The bell tower, about 30 m tall, guarding the entrance.
- The cells with an upper floor, arcades and timber balconies around the courtyard.
- The relics of the martyrs Zotikos, Attalos, Kamasis and Philippos, brought here in 1973.
Good to know before you go
- Getting there
By car: the monastery is ~8 km from Niculițel (~8 minutes), on the DJ229C, along a road through the forest, and ~11 km from Isaccea (~16 minutes). From Tulcea it is ~37 km (~40 minutes): on the DN22 towards Isaccea, then on the county road towards Niculițel. In the same area you can combine the Noviodunum Fortress at Isaccea and the Măcin Mountains National Park.
- Where to park
A paved car park in front of the monastery gate.
- Rules
Modest dress: shoulders and knees covered, women with their heads covered in the church. Keep quiet within the precinct and switch phones off during services. Photos in the church only with the monks' permission.
Frequently asked questions about Cocoș Monastery
How long does a visit to Cocoș Monastery take?
A visit to Cocoș Monastery takes about 45 min (church, courtyard and cells).
Can you visit Cocoș Monastery with kids?
Yes, Cocoș Monastery is suitable for children (modest dress and quiet).
Where can I park at Cocoș Monastery?
There is free parking at Cocoș Monastery (in front of the gate). More under “Where to park”
How do I get to Cocoș Monastery?
Cocoș Monastery is located at DJ229C, ~6 km from the centre of Niculițel commune, Niculițel, Tulcea County. More under “Getting there”
When is the best time to visit Cocoș Monastery?
The best season for Cocoș Monastery: All year round (all year, greener in summer).
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