Saint Nicolae Church in Roznov

Set in the heart of the town of Roznov and surrounded by the dendrological park, the parish church dedicated to Saint Nicolae is an architectural jewel. Its founder, Colonel Gheorghe Ruset Roznovanu, a prominent politician of his day, decided with his family to build this church in memory of his son, who died at the age of 20.

The church’s orientation and the location of its foundations followed the recommendations of His Grace Melchisedec Stefănescu, Bishop of Roman. The building nevertheless incorporates features of Russian church architecture, with stone walls forming an equal-armed cross and an onion-shaped dome, reflecting the Roznovanu family’s close ties with the Russian nobility.

The iconostasis, made in Moscow from gilded bronze with enamel between 1890-1892, was donated to the church in 1897 by Princess Alforuzzi, née Sturza. The interior was painted between 1913- 1915, and the church was consecrated in 1915, on 14 July, as recorded on the marble plaque in the porch. Particularly expressive are the scenes of the Resurrection and the Nativity, the Virgin and Child, and the two votive paintings on either side of the entrance. Two imposing staircases lead up to the building’s monumental entrance. The bell tower has 10 bells: 7 small ones, one large one and two of equal size, which play Colonel Roznovanu’s refrain, a combination of Greek and Russian melodies.

In 2002, the parish established the “Gheorghe Ruset-Roznovanu” Museum, which houses the finest historic objects preserved in the church.

The patronal feast is the religious celebration honouring the church’s patron saint, Saint Nicolae, who combined humility with generosity throughout his life; it brought together parishioners of all ages, as well as others, to share in this spirit of kindness.