Towards the end of the 15th century, the decisive contribution of the Christian rulers of Moldovlachia began, a patronage which lasted until the 18th century. The list is long: John Simon funded the fresco decoration of the refectory in 1496/7; the nobleman and leader Konstantine and his brother Radu provided considerable sums in the 16th century for fresco painting in the old cathedral; at the same time, the Lord of Lower Vlachia Nilkumanu and his wife Aga subsidized the painting of entrance nave. The list also includes generous contributions by the rulers Barbo Kraiovescu, Neagoe Basarab, the well-known sponsor of several Athonite monasteries Radu Serban, and Matthaius Basarab.
