More Communist housing along road from Bucharest where people were forced to live after leaving their villages

Gypsies live in wagons, keep traditions, have 10 or more children, and can attend schools under gov't guidelines

Romanian government will provide jobs for graduating gypsy students - trying to upgrade the gypsy culture

Over 600 monasteries in Romania - Caldarusani held treasures during Communist years; thus was not closed

Banks of secluded Caldarusani Lake, surrounded by forest

Monastery is situated 25 miles north of Bucharest

Dormitory for 35 monks living at monastery today - they follow same rules and traditions as Greece's Athos Mtn

"Maicii Domnului" icon - one of many made of wood or precious metals (silver or gold) in treasury room

Religious treasures allowed to be guarded by only a few monks at the monastery during the Communist years

"Catapeteasma" cross - precious icons represent Virgin, Trinity, and Saints  - all painted by Caldarusani monks

At one time there were 8K monks, now 3K, in Romania.  Famous painter Nicolae Grigorescu was schooled here.

Local guide translates that monastery started in 1778 and is one of first European schools of religious painting

One of 200-300 nuns

Each monk supports himself and has job to do

Beautiful color of rose at monastery that hosts museum collection of old art objects

Another splendid rose

Monks served our group delicious meal of soup, chicken entree, and special dessert in the abbott's house

Bill , Nancy, and  are served by the cook and server