Saharna Falls (Gipsy Hole)

This waterfall is located in a spectacular location – the canyon of Saharna stream. This ravine reaches the depth of some 160 – 170 m, creating impressive limestone cliffs and providing spectacular views.

This secluded area has been inhabited for millennia. Around the 8th – 6th century BC here lived Dacians but since the 7th century AD monks here, in the cliffs carved cells. In the 18th century, after a reported sighting of St. Maria here was built the present monastery. One can still observe the footprint of St. Maria and Saharna Monastery is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in Moldova.

On Saharna stream have formed 22 smaller and larger waterfalls.

The largest one is the "Gipsy Hole" – the second tallest waterfall in Moldova. This is a plunge waterfall with some 4.5 – 5 m tall plunge which hits a ledge of a cliff and then flows down along it for an additional 2 – 2.5 m. Waterfall has formed a circus – an enclosed area with overhanging cliffs and a pool.

Unfortunately the popularity of this landmark has left unwanted consequences – waterfall and the stream is littered.

Not too far in a similar ravine is located another monastery – Ţipova Monastery and – also with a group of rather similar waterfalls in ravines above it – Ţipova Falls!