Ion Neculce (1672–1745) takes note of the existence of an old wooden church up on Zion Hill, which had already been scattered at the moment of his narrative. This means the first building existed there before the beginning of the 17th century. On the presumed site of the Holy Altar, a stone cross was erected in 1875.
The Chapel on Zion Hill
The Chapel on Zion Hill
Soon after celebrating 500 years since the dormition of Saint Stephen the Great, the monastic community of Putna Monastery decided to build a wooden chapel on the site.
The local craftsmen built the church on the monastery's expense using only one fir tree trunk.
On July 10, 2006, it was consecrated by His Eminence Pimen, Archbishop of Suceava and Rădăuți, during the abbacy of Archimandrite Melchizedek Velnic.
The consecration of the chapel dedicated to Saint Stephen the Great on Zion Hill on July 10, 2006.
It was precisely the same day, 540 years before, that Putna’s first founder laid the first foundation stone of the monastery. To honor him, as a token of gratitude and to receive his blessing and protection, the small chapel was dedicated to him, being placed under the patronage of Holy Voivode Stephen the Great.
The interior of the chapel on Zion Hill, near the monastery precincts. The little church is dedicated to Holy Prince Stephen the Great.