Small Moldova is often simply not noticed on the map of Europe. For some reason, it is believed that Moldova is a kind of “Romania in miniature”. This is partly true, of course. But, nevertheless, Moldova is an independent, unique state that will appeal to any traveler. Moldova has medieval monasteries, churches, fortresses, and other interesting sights. In addition, this country has several balneological resorts and, of course, a lot of wine.
Geography of Moldova
Moldova is located in Eastern Europe. In the west it borders with Romania, and in the north, south and east – with Ukraine. The total area of Moldova is 33,846 square meters. km., and the total length of the border is 1,389 km.
About 13% of the territory of Moldova is occupied by forests; the highest point in the country is Mount Balanesti, whose height reaches 430 meters.
Capital
The capital of Moldova is the city of Chisinau, whose population now numbers more than 730 thousand people. Human settlement on the territory of modern Chisinau appeared in the first half of the 15th century.
Official language
In Moldova, the official language is Moldovan, which belongs to the Romance language family.
Religion
The vast majority of the population of Moldova (more than 93%) professes Orthodox Christianity. However, there is also a small number of Protestants in the country (more than 1.9%).
State structure of Moldova
According to the 1994 Constitution, Moldova is a parliamentary republic, the head of which is the President, elected by deputies of the local Parliament. The Moldovan Parliament consists of 101 deputies.
Deputies of the Moldovan Parliament are elected by direct universal suffrage for a term of 4 years.
Climate and weather
The climate in Moldova is temperate continental with mild and dry winters and warm summers. The average air temperature in January is -4C, and in summer +20C. As for precipitation, in the north of Moldova the average annual precipitation is 600 mm, and in the south – 400 mm.
Rivers and lakes
There are several large rivers in Moldova. These are, first of all, the Dniester, Prut, and Reut. In addition, Moldova has 600 meters of Danube coastline.
As for the lakes in Moldova, there are almost 60 of them in this country. The largest of them are Beleu, Drachele, Manta, and Rotunda.
History of Moldova
The first people appeared on the territory of modern Moldova approximately 6,500 years ago. During the Chalcolithic period, tribes of the Trypillian and Gumelnitsa cultures lived in Moldova. Then the Cimmerians, Thracians, and even Scythians lived on the territory of modern Moldova.
At the beginning of the 6th century, the Slavs appeared in Moldova, and in the 10th century, the Polovtsy. Then a significant part of Moldova became part of the Mongol-Tatar Golden Horde.
Only in 1359 was the Principality of Moldova formed, which was dependent on Poland. In 1456, the Principality of Moldova became a vassal of the Ottoman Empire.
In the 18th century, Moldova fell into the sphere of interests of the Russian Empire. As a result of long wars with the Ottoman Empire, after the Kuchuk-Kainardzhi Peace, the Principality of Moldova actually became part of the Russian Empire.
In accordance with the Treaty of Bucharest in 1812, Moldova officially became part of Russia, while enjoying greater autonomy. In 1871, Moldova was transformed into the Bessarabia province within Russia.
In January 1918, Bessarabia declared its independence from Russia. As a result of the turbulent events of the first half of the 20th century, part of Moldova (Bessarabia) was annexed to Romania, and the rest of the country formed the Moldavian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic, within the USSR.
In 1940, Romania, under pressure from the USSR, was forced to agree to the annexation of Bessarabia to the Moldavian SSR.
In the 1970-80s, the Moldavian SSR received significant funds from the USSR budget for the development of industry, science and housing construction. At this time, the standard of living in Moldova was one of the highest in the entire USSR.
In August 1991, Moldova declared its independence. After this, the Transnistrian Moldavian Republic was created in Tiraspol, which is now classified as the so-called. "unrecognized" republics.
Culture
Moldova is located at the intersection of Slavic and Latin (Catholic) cultures. Thanks to this, Moldovan culture is very original and unique.
The most popular holidays in Moldova are New Year, Christmas, Independence Day, National Language Day, “Martisor” (welcoming spring), Easter, Trinity, and National Wine Day.
The Martisor holiday is celebrated in Moldova every year on March 1. On this day, Moldovans give each other chains decorated with flowers - Martisors. This means that Spring defeats Winter.
Cuisine of Moldova
Moldavian cuisine is very similar to the cuisine of Romania. At the same time, Russian, Ukrainian, and Turkish culinary traditions also had a noticeable influence on Moldovan cuisine. The main products of Moldavian cuisine are meat (beef, pork), potatoes, cabbage.
We definitely recommend that tourists in Moldova try “Zama” soup, lamb chorba, borscht with corn grains, Moldavian schnitzel, mamaliga (porridge made from corn), “olivanka” (a dish made from corn, sheep cheese, pork and flour), placinda with a variety of fillings (baked goods), sarali with cottage cheese (reminiscent of pies), and much more.
Moldova is famous for its wines. In general, there is a kind of cult of wine in Moldova. Every year on the second Sunday of October, Moldova celebrates “Wine Day”. In addition, Moldovans produce several good brands of cognac.
Sights of Moldova
The centuries-old history of Moldova is reflected in a large number of different attractions. The top ten best Moldovan attractions, in our opinion, include the following:
Cities and resorts
The largest cities in Moldova are Rybnitsa, Balti, and, of course, Chisinau.
There are many thermal and mineral springs in Moldova. Balneological resorts have been built near some of them. Thus, the mineral springs of the Moldovan city of Cahul were known back in Soviet times.
Souvenirs/shopping
Office hours
Banks:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-17:00
The shops:
Mon-Fri: 08:00-17:00
Offices:
Mon-Fri: 09:00-17:00
Visa
Citizens of Ukraine do not need a visa to enter Moldova (if the duration of the trip does not exceed 90 days); they only need to present their Ukrainian passport at customs.
Currency of Moldova
The Moldovan Leu (its international designation: MDL) is the official currency of Moldova. One Moldovan leu = 100 bani. All major credit cards are accepted in shops, hotels and restaurants in Chisinau.
Customs restrictions
You can import foreign currency into Moldova without restrictions; we recommend declaring the money. It is prohibited to import firearms into Moldova without permission, and animals can only be imported with a veterinary certificate.
For many residents of Russia, a country like Moldova is unknown. Despite its small area and low population, it has a fairly rich history and culture. The sights of Moldova are unique in their own way and each of them deserves attention. During its existence, the state “suffered” several historical transformations. What to see in Moldova is described below; if possible, the places suggested in the list are best visited.
What to see first in Moldova?
Any trip should be carefully planned, then it will definitely be remembered for its bright events and interesting places. In the Middle Ages, there were entire wars for independence in this country; these and other events are reflected in some of the sights. Below is a ranking of the most significant for the state.
1. Chisinau Botanical Garden
Chisinau Botanical Garden from a bird's eye view For residents of Chisinau, this piece of land, planted with bushes, flowers and trees, is one of the main attractions and a favorite vacation spot. The year of its creation is 1950. Today, an area of more than 100 hectares is divided into sectors. Some contain exclusively arboretums, shrubs, and there is a flower production area. The garden would not be complete without plants of tropical and subtropical origin. A lot of space in the garden is allocated exclusively for experiments; there is also a hybridization sector. What to see in Moldova in 1 day? You can get acquainted with the varieties of the country's topography, of which there are 24 species in one place.
2. Curki Monastery
Orthodox monastery Kurki Gikü This real estate remarkable object of spiritual creativity of the 17th century is considered one of the main attractions of Moldova. It rises on beautiful hills with dense forests. On one terrace there is a monastery along with buildings for economic purposes, and on the other there is a pool-pond made of natural stone. Since 2000, the Kurki monastery has been under the protection of the UN. It was decided to use the organization’s funds to begin restoration work in order to restore the building. To date they have not been completed.
3. National Museum of the History of Moldova
Exhibit of the National Museum of the History of Moldova U.S. Embassy Moldova Carrying out an overview of the institution in which historical monuments are collected and stored, I would like to say that the institution is located in a former general education institution for men. It was the first in the described state. Today there are 10 sites where products are presented. There are not only permanent exhibitions, but also temporary ones. Numismatic and archaeological collections are of great interest to tourists. Among the unique exhibits are the tip of a war chariot, the helmet of a representative of the ancient warlike Thracian people, and a bronze candlestick.
4. Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ in Chisinau
View of the Cathedral of the Nativity in Chisinau This landmark of Moldova is one of the main religious ones; it is located at the intersection of two main streets in Tiraspol. It was built literally in a year. The large church is part of an architectural complex that includes several buildings. We are talking about a parish house, a diocesan administration, a Sunday school, and a baptismal church. Excursions are often organized here in Moldova, because the place is very beautiful, the building is stylized as Russian classics.
5. Museum of Ethnography and Natural History
Facade of the Museum of Ethnography and Natural History Luytique Throughout the entire territory of the described state, it is the largest and oldest. Located in the city of Chisinau, the Museum of Agriculture was created back in 1889. It was located in another building because there was not enough space to store all the exhibits. Nowadays, this landmark of Moldova is considered an important scientific and cultural center of the historical region in southeastern Europe. His fame spreads far beyond the borders of the state. The room consists of two large halls, one decorated on the theme of flora and fauna, the other introduces historically important events, culture and customs of Moldova.
Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Moldova!
6. Tipova Monastery
Tipova Rock Monastery If you don’t know what to see in Moldova, go to a mysterious place - a small village. Nothing has changed in it since the first mentions. There is a unique historical monument there that attracts tourists with many legends and tales about itself. Reviews about this place indicate that one simply cannot help but admire its beauty and uniqueness. Along with the monastery, you can see many waterfalls here that will take your breath away. Guides from Moldova tell a lot of interesting things about the monastery and the settlement itself.
7. Capriana Monastery
Capriana Holy Dormition Monastery It is located in the village of the same name, located 40 km from Chisinau. It was first built of wood in 1429, but a few centuries later a large church made of stone “grew” in its place. About 70 years ago, the monastery was closed, all the monks were dispersed, it was decided to use the building as a children's tuberculosis clinic, but in the early 90s it was returned to the believers. Are you thinking about where to go in Moldova? Visit the Capriana Monastery, you won’t regret it.
8. Pushkin House-Museum in Chisinau
Pushkin House-Museum in Chisinau Pushkin House-Museum in Chisinau. The sights of Moldova are scattered throughout the country, but most of them are concentrated in Chisinau. One of them is the house in which the famous poet A.S. Pushkin lived during his exile. He described this period of his life in his work “The Black Shawl.” There was also a poem “Prisoner of the Caucasus”, which was created under the impression of the beauty of Moldova.
Sights of Moldova: what else to visit in Moldova?
9. Stefan cel Mare Park
Monument to Stephen the Great in Stefan cel Mare Park What to see in Moldova? Visit the oldest park and you won’t regret it. It was built back in 1818, initiated by the governor’s wife. On the territory of the park there are other attractions of Moldova, namely, a monument to Pushkin, Stefan cel Mar, many beautiful fountains, stone lions. It is believed that the oldest park in Chisinau in Moldova is really worth visiting.
10. Soroca Fortress
Entrance to the 15th century Soroca Fortress Adam Jones It is a unique example of defensive architecture of the 15th century. This landmark of Moldova was once built to protect the garrison and local residents (the city of Soroki) from Tatar invasions. In the photo it can be noted that the fortress is in good condition today. It includes 5 towers, the height of the walls is 21 m, the thickness is as much as 3 m. Characteristic of the Soroca fortress is its similarity with those in northern Italy.
11. Winery Cricova
Interior of the Cricova Cellars for VIPs Hans Põldoja One can assume that today it is the most famous plant in the country. Its uniqueness lies in the production of champagne using classic champagne technology. The official description says that the company produces vintage and ordinary wines. The length of the cellars reaches 120 km; the collection itself includes more than a million bottles of wine. Still don't know what to visit in Moldova? Take a look at the winery, where the remains of Goering's world-famous collection are stored in its cellars.
12. Old Orhei
Museum-Reserve Old Orhei Serbinov Maria This is the name of a full-fledged historical and archaeological complex. It has a rich history, is characterized by an incredibly beautiful landscape, and many legends are associated with this place. Going on a trip , try to see the high limestone hills with powerful energy. Their appearance cannot but fascinate; it is also surprising that they are more than 14 million years old. Excavations at this site have been going on since the 40s; the museum complex itself was founded in 1968. Now this attraction in Moldova is one of the most visited.
13. Wine cellars in Milestii Mici
Famous wine cellars in Milestii Mici This is not only a famous landmark of Moldova, but also the oldest wine storage facility in the country. The length of the underground city is about 200 km; only 55 km are used for technological purposes. A tour of the site includes a wine tasting. On the territory of the complex there are places to take interesting photos, for example, against the backdrop of wine-themed fountains.
There are no problems with hotels in Moldova; you can find a suitable option for yourself using special services, such as https://www.booking.com/index.ru.html. Well, in general, there really is something to see in Moldova. If you go on vacation to this country, you will not regret it. The above is not a complete list of attractions in Moldova; more information can be found on the Internet. All of it is freely available.
What else to see in Moldova? There are interesting places in the cities of Chisinau, Balti, Bendery, Rybnitsa, Orhei, Tiraspol. By planning your trip responsibly, you will ensure a great vacation.
Voronets is a working convent, included in the list of world cultural heritage compiled by UNESCO. This Romanian monastery is primarily known for its Church of St. George the Victorious. The walls of this unique temple are painted with ancient frescoes from the sixteenth century, both inside and outside.
Voronets Monastery was founded in 1488 by Prince Stephen the Great, and its central temple was built in record time - in less than four months. In memory of this event, a corresponding inscription above the entrance has been preserved.
Because of the unique frescoes, the name “Sistine Chapel of the East” was firmly attached to the people of the Church of St. George the Victorious. The wall paintings truly amaze with their originality and colorfulness: executed on a bright blue background, the frescoes illustrate famous biblical parables and stories. The most amazing thing is that despite the passing centuries, the colors have not faded at all, and still amaze with their rich shades.
The Church of St. George the Victorious at the Voronet Monastery is recognized as one of the most beautiful churches in Romania, and many tourists come to see this place every day.
Throne Fortress
The Throne Fortress is an ancient defensive citadel located on a hill near the city of Suceava, in Romania. It is an important historical monument and one of the few examples of ancient defensive architecture preserved in the country.
The throne fortress was built in the fourteenth century by the Moldavian prince Peter I Mushat. At the time of construction, it was a powerful military fort, surrounded by two-meter thick walls and a ten-meter moat. In the fifteenth century, the Throne Fortress was further strengthened by Stephen III the Great. For a long time, the citadel successfully held back the onslaught of the armies of the Ottoman Empire; it was here, in the Throne Fortress, that the Moldavian rulers were crowned.
However, in 1675 the fortress was still destroyed. For many years, the ruins of the citadel stood in disrepair, and only after the historical value of this object was recognized, intensive restoration began.
But even half-destroyed, the Throne Fortress in Suceava makes a strong impression, and with its monumentality attracts many lovers of antiquity and medieval military architecture.
What sights of Moldova did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Iasi International Airport
Iasi Airport is one of the oldest in Romania. Already at the very beginning of the 20th century, in 1905, unique “art competitions” related to flights were held on the local airfield.
In 1926, the aviation forces of that time established regular flights connecting Moldova and Romania. However, during the Second World War the airport was badly damaged.
In 1969, Iasi Airport received a new life, it was modernized as part of a special national program. Thanks to modern equipment, the airport stood on par with other airports in the country and began operating daily flights. Nowadays, although it is small, it is one of the most equipped regional airports.
The airport is served by Karpatair, Thar and Austrian Airlines.
The Palace of Culture is a beautiful neo-Gothic style palace located in the city of Iasi. Due to its magnificent architecture, the palace is included in the register of historical monuments protected by the state.
The construction of the Palace of Culture was completed in 1925. The county court sat here for several decades, and soldiers were quartered in the building during World War II. At the end of the war, in 1955, after a large-scale reorganization, the building was given over to the Moldova museum complex, which still owns the palace.
The complex includes an ethnographic museum, a history museum and an art museum. And the entire eastern wing of the palace is occupied by the library named after Georg Asaki.
Also located in the Palace of Culture is the Center for Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage, an organization collaborating with UNESCO and engaged in the restoration of art objects.
Of course, the Palace of Culture is the largest museum complex in the region, and it invariably attracts many tourists. However, the building itself is impressive - there are always many people who want to look at its monumental Gothic architecture.
Episcopal Cathedral in Khushi
The Episcopal Cathedral is a Baroque Orthodox church located in the historical region of Moldova, Romania. Currently serves as the cathedral of the diocese of Khushi.
The Episcopal Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul) was built in 1495 on the orders of Prince Stephen the Great, as evidenced by the memorial plaque at the entrance, which has survived from that time. The cathedral had a difficult fate - the building was destroyed several times. In 1692, as a result of an earthquake, both towers of the temple collapsed, but they were soon restored. And in 1709, the church was burned and looted during the Turkish invasion.
The Bishop's Cathedral boasts ancient frescoes from the nineteenth century by the famous painter George Tattarescu. Among the cultural heritage, it is also worth mentioning the ancient Gospel, whose cover is decorated with silver.
In addition to divine services, the cathedral is used as a necropolis - on the territory of the temple there are the tombs of many bishops who headed the diocese of Khushi in the Middle Ages.
The Episcopal Cathedral is the main religious landmark of the Moldova region. And besides, this is a real historical monument, which invariably attracts lovers of antiquity.
Bacau International Airport
Bacau Airport named after George Enescu (Romanian composer) is the largest international airport in the north-east of Romania, which is located in the region of Moldova, at an equal distance from the main cities - Galati, Brasov, Suceava, Iasi, Piatra Neamta, Vaslui, Focsani. The railway and E85 highway are located 400 meters from the terminal, which allows easy and quick access to main destinations.
The airport was opened on April 1, 1946. The dimensions of its runway were 2500 meters long and 80 meters wide.
Airlines such as Carpatair, Blue Air, Tarom cooperate with the airport.
The airport is the hallmark of the Moldavian region. Today its passenger traffic is approximately 200 thousand people annually and continues to increase.
In January 2010, for the purpose of modernization and reconstruction, the airport was transferred to the private company S.C. Blueaero S.R.L.
Painted Church in Arbor
The painted Church of the Beheading of John the Baptist in the village of Arbore is one of the most famous architectural landmarks of Moldova, Romania. The church was built in 1503 by Luca Arbore, one of the closest associates of Stephen the Great. In 1541, the church was painted by the icon painter Dragoš from Iaşi.
The church is covered with frescoes both inside and outside. Its painting is dominated by soft green tones. The inside of the church is painted with frescoes depicting gospel scenes; the outside mainly features frescoes on the themes of the Last Judgment, Akathist to the Virgin Mary, and the siege of Constantinople.
The most popular attractions in Moldova with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Moldova on our website.
As a rule, it is not tourists who go to Moldova to shop. No wonder! It is here that you can buy digital equipment, locally made shoes and even cars at surprisingly competitive prices. When visiting the country, remember that it is not used to pampering guests with expensive shiny trinkets. However, here you will certainly find everything you need and at a very attractive price.
Your friends back home will not understand you if you do not bring back from your trip the symbol of the Moldavian Republic - wine. You can buy it literally everywhere. However, the easiest way to find wine is in Chisinau and Bendery - the largest cities in the country.
Transport
The railway transport of Moldova will be useless for tourists: the communication is very poor and the system itself is not in the best condition. The most adequate and easiest option for traveling around the country is a car. The entire country can be crossed in 4 hours.
River transport is most suitable for tourists. The presence of ports (one of them is in Bendery) makes this type of travel not only cheap, but also exciting. River travel is inexpensive and will leave more impressions than you can imagine.
In addition, there are plenty of bus routes, but the condition of the roads in this country is not always satisfactory.
Unfortunately, Moldova has no access to the sea. No matter what the cunning tour operators tell you.
Connection
Before purchasing a SIM card in Moldova or dealing with your own mobile operator, take into account the fact that here in large cities there are plenty of different Internet cafes, as well as many Wi-Fi access points. The average cost of one hour online is $0.5. And given the popularity of mobile gadgets and laptops with access to programs like Skype, you can save a lot on communicating with relatives at home. Naturally, this is only possible if you are located in Chisinau, Bendery or another large city in the country.
If the option with interactive communication does not suit you, roaming is at your service.
Safety
Due to events taking place in the country, tourists are not recommended to travel independently, especially to unfamiliar regions of the country. The capital and developed cities are still safe, but the borders of Moldova can present a number of unpleasant surprises to an inexperienced tourist due to the not particularly favorable political situation in the country.
In addition, every tourist should remember that any big city entails the possibility of leaving you completely without money, and this is provided that you do not spend a penny. Beware of pickpockets and avoid unfamiliar areas of the city.
Tourists do not require any vaccinations before traveling to Moldova.
Business
According to experts, the most profitable segment of the Moldovan market is agricultural. Alcohol and tobacco products are also in high demand. Medicine is also a profitable market segment.
Real estate
In comparison with prices for living space in the CIS countries, housing in Moldova can be called quite budget-friendly. By the way, a three-room apartment with a good renovation in a new building will cost around $50,000. Your own cottage, in a good area, with at least 6 rooms, excellent renovation, will also be inexpensive - the average cost of quality housing in the suburbs does not exceed $150,000. There are no restrictions on purchasing real estate in this country. The state does not place obstacles for those who want to acquire their own apartment or land in Moldova.
As mentioned above, tourists, and especially beginners, are not recommended to travel to the cities of Moldova remote from the capital. Due to the unstable political situation in the country, its guests may encounter a number of troubles.
Please note that the export of alcoholic beverages, including wine, is strictly limited. You can find out what and in what quantities are allowed to be transported across the border on the embassy website.
Visa information
Moldova is not a member of the Schengen countries.
Residents of CIS countries do not need a visa to visit Moldova for a period of no more than 90 days. Citizens of most European countries do not need a visa at all and can cross the border without hindrance. Residents of other countries must apply for a visa in a standard manner.
The Moldovan Embassy is located in Moscow at the address: st. Kuznetsky Most, 18. Phone: (+7 495) 624 53 53.
Story
The ancestors of the Moldavian people are the Vlachs (Volochs), the ethnic basis of whose formation, as modern science suggests, was the Romanized Geto-Dacian population that lived on both banks of the Danube. The Vlachs lived in communities in ancient times. The community was governed by a council made up of wealthy peasants. The council also included the “knez” (leader), who initially exercised power in wartime. Gradually, power passed to the prince and became hereditary.
The first political formations of the Vlachs arose in the form of “knezats” and voivodships; the socio-political prerequisites for Moldavian statehood took shape in the depths of the Old Russian state. In the middle of the 13th century. The Mongols seized power over the region in the 14th century. - Hungarians. In 1359, Voivode Bogdan with part of the Vlachs moved to the territory called in the sources “Moldavian Land” (the center is the Moldovan River basin) and established his power over most of the Eastern Carpathian region, and in 1365 achieved recognition of the independence of the state. This is how the independent Principality of Moldova arose with its capital in the city of Siret.
The first Moldavian rulers had the title of “voivode”, and from the beginning of the 15th century. - “sir.” Alexander the Good (1400–1432) was the first to bear this title. His power was formally unlimited: he issued charters, signed treaties with foreign states, was the supreme commander and judge. However, the boyars who were members of the Boyar Rada played a major role in the state: not a single issue of domestic and foreign policy was resolved without their participation.
Hospodar Peter III Aron in the fall of 1455 was forced to agree to pay tribute to the Turkish Sultan, but Stephen III the Great (1457–1504), who displaced Aron and built a network of fortresses and border fortifications, refused to pay tribute in 1473. The Sultan, who decided to subjugate Stefan by force, was defeated in January 1475 at the Vaslui River. During the reign of Stefan, foreign policy ties between Moldova and Russia strengthened. The union was supplemented by family ties: the son of Grand Duke Ivan III was married to Helen, daughter of Stephen III.
However, at the beginning of the 16th century. The Moldavian principality fell into vassal dependence on Turkey. The Sultan was paid an annual tribute - kharazhd. The Moldavian ruler was confirmed on the throne by the sultan, as a sign of loyalty to whom the rulers were obliged to send sons or close relatives to Istanbul, who were practically in the position of hostages there. During the 16th–17th centuries. There were almost 50 rulers on the Moldavian throne. The central government was weak, the country was actually ruled by a boyar oligarchy - representatives of the 75 most influential families. The class of feudal lords also included “servants” - Moldavian nobles who served in the army of the ruler and received land holdings for their service on the right of estate.
Peasants who in the 15th century. were considered formally free from the second half of the 17th century. began to fall into serfdom from the boyars. According to the new order, a peasant who lived on boyar land for 12 years became a serf. Such peasants (called vechins) worked on the feudal lord’s farm for a set number of days, paid rent in kind and money to their master and delivered homemade products to him; they could be inherited, mortgaged, or sold along with the land. The gypsy serfs were in an even worse situation.
During the reign of Vasily Lupu (1634–1653), the first set of Moldavian laws was compiled - the Code (1646). The norms of criminal law, reflected in the Code, were in force until the mid-18th century, and civil law - until the spread of all-Russian legislation on the territory of Bessarabia in the first half of the 19th century.
In February 1654, ruler Gheorghe Stefan sent his representative Ivan Grigoriev to Moscow with a request to accept Moldavia into Russian citizenship; in March 1656, Russian-Moldavian negotiations on this issue began. Due to complicated international relations (the Russian-Swedish war and other events), the negotiations remained without consequences, but their very fact caused a negative reaction from the Turkish Sultan: in March 1658, George Stefan was removed from the throne.
In 1711, the ruler Dmitry Cantemir concluded an agreement with Peter I, according to which he became Peter's vassal, and the latter undertook to restore Moldova to its former borders. The Moldavian army fought together with the Russian against the Turks, but the failure of the Prut campaign of Peter I prevented the implementation of this agreement. Dmitry Cantemir himself and his associates moved to Russia, where he wrote most of his works.
From 1711, the Moldavian boyars lost the right to elect hospodars, and every three years the Turkish government began to appoint as hospodars people alien to Moldova from among the Greek aristocracy, who went over to the service of the Sultan. These representatives of the Greek nobility (called Phanariotes) ruled Moldavia for over 100 years. The Phanariot rulers did not have the right to maintain their army or conduct foreign policy, but had to collect and send tribute to the Sultan.
During the Russian-Turkish wars of the 18th century. The Russian army liberated Moldova from the Turks three times. According to the Kuchuk-Kainardzhi Peace of 1774 with Turkey, Russia received protection over Moldova. Turkey pledged to return the lands taken from it to Moldova, exempt the tax-paying population from taxes for two years, and not demand tax arrears from them during the Russian-Turkish War of 1768–1774. The result was a weakening of Turkish oppression and the strengthening of economic ties with Russia, where Moldova exported wine and fruit and from where it imported furs, iron products, linen and ropes.
As a result of the Russian-Turkish war of 1787–1791, according to the Peace of Jassy, the territory between the Bug and the Dniester was annexed to Russia, and according to the Treaty of Bucharest, which summed up the Russian-Turkish war of 1806–1812, the territory between the Dniester and Prut (Bessarabia) was annexed.
The inclusion of Moldavian lands into the Russian Empire did not mean the restoration of Moldavian statehood. Moldavian lands were divided between various administrative units. Only Bessarabia, where a compact majority of Moldovans lived, received a special legal status.
In the first years after the annexation, the old system of governing the region, beneficial to the Moldavian boyars, was preserved, as well as the old land relations, laws and customs. In accordance with the Rules of the Provisional Government of the Bessarabia Region adopted in 1813, the administration of Bessarabia was carried out by the governor (he became the boyar Scarlat Sturdza) and the provisional regional government. The region was divided into 9 cinuts, to each of which police officers from the Moldavian boyars were appointed by the governor. The okolashi (volost elders) were subordinate to the police officers.
In 1816, the post of governor was established in Bessarabia, and in 1818 - a Supreme Council of 11 people and a regional court consisting of criminal and civil chambers. The criminal court was guided by Russian laws, the civil court by Moldovan laws. In 1828, with the adoption of the Institution for the management of the Bessarabia region, an all-Russian administrative system of management was introduced on the territory of Bessarabia. Record keeping in the Moldavian language ceased; in 1873 the Bessarabia region was turned into a province.
A stream of immigrants rushed to the annexed territories: both from abroad (Bulgarians, Gagauz, Germans, etc.) and from the central and Ukrainian provinces. Military-economic settlements were created here from retired soldiers, Cossacks, and military personnel. Less severe feudal oppression and favorable natural conditions attracted peasants fleeing serfdom here. Moldavian lands continued to remain agricultural, but the relationship between livestock raising and agriculture changed, the latter in the mid-19th century. has become the dominant industry. Industry developed slowly; in pre-reform times, specific industries predominated - salt production and fishing with fish processing.
In 1818, the local boyars were equal in rights and privileges with the Russian nobility; the lower strata of the ruling class (Boernashi) in the 40s received the rights to personal nobility. However, the main category of peasants - tsarans - were not equated to serfs in Russia. They were declared “free farmers,” but for the use of landowners’ and monastic lands they had to serve corvee labor and pay quitrent. Small landowners - rezeshi - were less dependent on the feudal lords and were mainly in the position of tax-paying peasants.
In 1820 Chisinau became one of the centers of the revolutionary movement in Russia. The Decembrists created the Kishinev government here, headed by M.F. Orlov, who commanded the 16th division. The Kishinev Decembrists launched propaganda among the soldiers, preparing them for an armed uprising. To train cadets and soldiers, Lancaster schools were created, the head of which was the poet V.F. Raevsky, a participant in the Patriotic War of 1812. To expand their influence, the Decembrists also used the Ovid Masonic lodge created in 1821 in Chisinau. A close connection was also established with the secret political society of Greek rebels, Filiki Eteria, operating in Bessarabia.
The revolutionary propaganda of the Decembrists led to the fact that at the end of 1821 unrest occurred in four of the six regiments of the 16th division. After their suppression, M.F. Orlov was removed from command of the division, and V.F. Raevsky was arrested and imprisoned in the Tiraspol fortress.
Peasant reform in Moldavian lands was carried out at different times. In the left bank regions of Transnistria, which were part of the Kherson and Podolsk provinces, it was carried out on the basis of the Regulations on peasants emerging from serfdom on February 19, 1861. For the Kherson province, it was provided for the liberation of peasants and the provision of land to them in the amount of 3 to 7 dessiatinas for ransom .
In Bessarabia, the Regulations concerned only a small part of the peasants, since serfs made up only one percent of the population here. For the bulk of the peasants, the Tsarans, the reform was carried out on the basis of the law of July 14, 1868. The allotment (on average 2.9 dessiatinas) was transferred here for family use. For state peasants and colonists, special reforms were carried out in 1869 and 1871, according to which they received from 8 to 11 acres of land per capita, and for a smaller ransom.
In southern Bessarabia, the reform was carried out in 1864. Peasants received land here for hereditary family use, but their allotment was less than in the Novorossiysk provinces. In the south of the region, where the bulk of the land was in the use of state peasants and colonists, the peasants received land ownership on preferential terms, respectively, 30 and 50 dessiatines per family head. The existing land structure remained here even after these areas returned to Russia in 1878.
The peasant reform contributed to the development of capitalist forms of production, farming, and renting. Bessarabia became one of the provinces of commercial grain farming, and viticulture, gardening, and tobacco growing also began to develop at a faster pace. Trade played a major role in the economy of the province; the share of industry continued to remain insignificant.
During the Russian-Turkish War of 1877–1878, volunteer detachments were formed on the territory of Moldova to fight against Turkey, including the formation of the Bulgarian militia. In Chisinau, the Red Cross Society trained brothers of mercy for Bulgaria. As a result of the war, the southern part of Bessarabia with ports on the Danube again became part of Russia.
The revolution of 1905–1907 in Russia spread to Moldavian lands. On August 21, 1905, a general political strike began in Chisinau, which resulted in a demonstration the next day and led to an armed clash between workers and troops and police. In October, railway workers from Chisinau, Balti, and Tiraspol, as well as printers and workers from many workshops, joined the all-Russian political strike. The unrest also affected the peasants, the army and the navy. In January 1906, a peasant uprising broke out in the village of Comrat, Bendery district, which had to be suppressed with the help of troops. The national liberation movement intensified, demands were made for children to be taught in their native language, and newspapers began to be published in the Moldovan language.
Stolypin's agrarian reform also affected Bessarabia. During 1907–1913, 11,810 peasant farms in the Bessarabian province separated from the community and secured 130 thousand acres of land as private property. About 60 thousand peasants moved to Siberia and Kazakhstan.
During the First World War, railway construction developed at an accelerated pace in Moldova, driven by the needs of the front. At the same time, a decline began in agriculture, caused by the mobilization of the able-bodied male population into the army and economic devastation and expressed in a reduction in sown areas and gross grain harvest. Almost from the beginning of the war, the peasant movement intensified in the region. In connection with conscription into the army, the peasantry refused to pay state and zemstvo taxes and resisted the requisition of livestock.
In the first days of the February Revolution of 1917, the bodies of the Provisional Government were formed in Moldova. On March 6, the chairman of the zemstvo government of the Bessarabian province, landowner Mimi, was appointed provincial commissar. Councils of Workers' and Soldiers' Deputies arose in Chisinau, Bendery, Balti and other large cities.
In October 1917, Sfatul Tsariy (“Council of the Country”) was created and the autonomy of Moldova was declared, and a decision was made to create a Moldavian national army. On December 2, 1917, the Council proclaimed Bessarabia the Moldavian Democratic Republic, and on January 24, 1918 declared its independence. In agreement with Sfatul Tarii, Romanian troops entered the territory of Bessarabia. At the same time, the Second Congress of Rumcherod (the executive committee of the Soviets of the Romanian Front, the Black Sea Fleet and the Odessa region), held on December 10–23, 1917 in Odessa, proclaimed a course towards establishing Soviet power on the territory of Moldova. In response to the advance of Romanian troops, the Council of People's Commissars of Russia broke off diplomatic relations with Romania and sent Red Army units to Bessarabia.
The conflict led to the division of Moldovan lands. On April 9, 1918, Sfatul Tarii, by a slight majority of votes, decided to unite the MDR with Romania, and Soviet power was established on the territory of the left bank of the Dniester region during 1919–1921. In the fall of 1924, at the III session of the All-Ukrainian Central Executive Committee of the VIII convocation, the Law on Education within the Ukrainian Socialist Republic of the Autonomous Moldavian Socialist Soviet Republic (MASSR) was adopted. The republic included 11 districts of the Left Bank of the Dniester, the capital became the city of Balta, and since 1929 - the city of Tiraspol.
The First All-Moldavian Congress of Soviets (April 19–23, 1925) adopted a constitution that determined the state structure of the republic, a manifesto to the peoples of Moldova, and elected the Central Executive Committee of the Moldavian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. G.I. Stary was elected Chairman of the Presidium of the CEC at the first session of the CEC, A.I. Stroev became the head of government. The Moldavian ASSR was thus included in the system of state bodies of the Soviet Union.
The creation of a large industry began in the republic, primarily food and construction materials. In 1935, the Tiraspol Thermal Power Plant came into operation. Private enterprises were nationalized, and in 1929–1931 complete collectivization of peasant farms was carried out.
In the second half of the 30s, the leadership of the MASSR, as well as many ordinary people, were subjected to Stalinist repressions. In May 1937, a number of government members (including the Chairman of the Council of People's Commissars of the MASSR G.I. Stary), party, Komsomol and Soviet workers were released from office, and then arrested and repressed. All of them were accused of treason and espionage “in favor of royal Romania.”
On June 26 and 27, 1940, the USSR government sent two notes to the Romanian government, which contained demands for the return of Bessarabia and the transfer of Northern Bukovina to the USSR as a means of “compensating for the enormous damage that was caused to the Soviet Union and the population of Bessarabia by the 22-year rule of Romania in Bessarabia.” On June 28, Romania withdrew its troops and administration from Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina.
On August 2, 1940, the Supreme Soviet of the USSR adopted the law on the formation of the Moldavian SSR. 6 out of 9 Bessarabian districts and 6 out of 14 districts of the former MASSR became part of the new union republic. The northern part of Bukovina, Khotyn, Akkerman and Izmail districts of Bessarabia were included in the Ukrainian SSR. By decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of November 4, 1940, 8 regions of the MASSR were also transferred to Ukraine.
New government bodies were created in the cities, villages and towns of Moldova: executive committees of councils and local Soviet governing bodies. In January 1941, elections were held to the Supreme Council of the Moldavian SSR, at the first session of which a constitution of the republic, similar to the Soviet, was approved.
In accordance with the decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR dated August 15, 1940, banks and credit institutions, loan and savings banks, railway and water transport, trams and buses, communications, major industrial enterprises, power plants, large commercial enterprises, oil and gas industries were nationalized in Bessarabia. reservoirs, medical and socio-cultural institutions, large residential buildings. On the territory of 6 counties of the former MASSR, about 500 industrial enterprises were nationalized.
At the end of July - beginning of August 1941, the territory of the Moldavian SSR was completely occupied by fascist troops. The right-bank regions became part of the so-called “Bessarabia” governorate, the left-bank regions became part of the so-called “Transnistria” (“Transnistria”) governorate. In contrast to “Transnistria,” which was transferred by the Nazis to the Romanian Kingdom for temporary “administration and economic exploitation,” the governorates of “Bessarabia” and “Bukovina” were declared an integral part of Romania. In the period 1941–1944, about 80 anti-fascist underground organizations and groups operated on the territory of Moldova; by the beginning of 1944, almost all of them were defeated. The partisan movement intensified only in the summer of 1944 during the preparation of the Iasi-Kishinev operation.
On March 17, 1944, troops of the 2nd Ukrainian Front reached the Dniester and the border of the Moldavian SSR, and by March 25, Soviet troops had already occupied more than 100 settlements on the right bank of Moldova. On April 12, 1944, troops of the 3rd Ukrainian Front captured Tiraspol.
On August 20, 1944, the Iasi-Kishinev operation began, in which the 2nd and 3rd Ukrainian Fronts, the Black Sea Fleet and the Danube Military Flotilla took part. On August 21, the city of Iasi was taken, on August 24, Chisinau was liberated. In just 10 days, 22 German divisions were surrounded and eliminated.
After the war, 245 thousand hectares of farmland were transferred into the hands of land-poor and landless peasants, seed and fodder loans, and loans for the purchase of livestock were allocated. Some peasant farms were exempt from taxes. In 1946–1947, the territory of Moldova suffered a terrible drought, which led to extremely low yields of cereal crops and grasses. However, the Stalinist system of compulsory grain procurements, extended to the republic, forced local party and Soviet bodies to continue fulfilling government supplies. This led to mass starvation and even death of the population. The Union government urgently provided food and grain assistance to the republic, which did not improve the situation, since grain deliveries, which deprived peasants of insurance food supplies, were not canceled. “The situation in the republic was paradoxical,” note modern Moldovan historians. – In the autumn months, the Moldavian village became a place for cross-transportation of grain. One flow was aid from the regional “Zagotzerno” points going to the villages, and the other – grain procurements – went in the opposite direction to these same points.” According to various estimates, from 150 to 300 thousand people died from hunger in the republic during these years .
In 1949, mass collectivization of agriculture was carried out, accompanied by the deportation of the wealthy part of the peasantry.
In 1988, two opposition groups emerged: the Democratic Movement in Support of Perestroika and the Aleksei Mateevich Musical and Literary Club. On May 20, 1989, the Popular Front of Moldova was created, advocating for the autonomy of the republic. With the direct participation of these organizations, in the summer of 1989, numerous demonstrations took place in Chisinau under the slogan: “Moldova to the Moldovans!” The demonstrators demanded the political and economic independence of Moldova, the annulment of the consequences of the German-Soviet treaty of 1939, and the recognition of the Moldovan language as the official language of the republic. In response to this, the founding congress of the Unitate-Unity inter-movement took place on July 8.
On August 31, 1989, the Supreme Council of the MSSR proclaimed Moldovan the official language in the “political, economic, social and cultural spheres”, Russian as the language of interethnic communication. A law was adopted on the return of Latin script to the Moldovan language. Mircea Snegur was elected Chairman of the Supreme Council with the support of the Popular Front.
On February 25, 1990, elections were held to the Supreme Council of the Moldavian SSR. Popular Front supporters won the majority of seats. On April 27, the country's state symbols changed; a blue-yellow-red tricolor resembling the Romanian blue-yellow-red tricolor was introduced as the state flag. Deputies opposed to the Popular Front resigned from parliament on May 24.
On August 2, at the Second Extraordinary Congress of the Workers of Transnistria, who did not want to secede from the USSR, a decision was made to form the Transnistrian Moldavian SSR, and on November 22–25, elections were held to the Supreme Council of the republic. However, the Supreme Council of the MSSR declared these elections invalid.
On March 6, 2005, parliamentary elections were held in Moldova, in which 64.84% of voters took part. 45.98% of voters voted for the Party of Communists of the Republic of Moldova (PCRM), 28.53% for the Democratic Moldova bloc (BDM), and 9.07% for the Christian Democratic People's Party (CDPP). The election process was monitored by 747 observers from the OSCE, the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) and the European Union, as well as 2.5 thousand local observers. Russian observers were expelled from Moldova on the eve of the elections.
On April 4, 2005, the parliament re-elected the current President Vladimir Nikolaevich Voronin for a new term (75 deputies voted for him). The second candidate, Giorgi Ducu (head of the Academy of Sciences of the republic, also a candidate from the Communist Party) received one vote. Voronin's inauguration took place on April 7, 2005.
Economy
Agriculture remains the most significant area of economic activity. Private ownership of land was legalized only in 1991, but the sale of agricultural land began only after 2001. Agriculture provides more than 2/5 of national income. The mild climate and fertile soils allow the cultivation of a large number of crops. Moldova is a major producer of grapes and wine products. Its orchards produce large harvests of plums, apricots, cherries and peaches. Fruit cultivation is concentrated in the north, central regions and the Dniester valley. An important commercial crop is tobacco. Sugar beets are grown everywhere in the country, which provides raw materials for numerous sugar factories. Sunflower is grown to produce vegetable oil. Corn and wheat are sown everywhere; they are consumed on the domestic market, used for feed and exported. Meat production accounts for less than half of total agricultural production. About half of the meat products are pork, followed by beef, poultry, and lamb.
Moldova has developed some heavy industries that emerged during the Soviet period, as well as light and food industries. The leading branch of heavy industry is mechanical engineering, the main products of which are electric motors, electrical and agricultural equipment. There is a chemical industry (production of plastics, synthetic fibers, paints and varnishes), as well as building materials and cement. Consumer goods include fabrics, clothing, refrigerators, furniture, televisions, and radios. The food industry is of great importance. According to IMF estimates, in Moldova (with the exception of Transnistria) the share of food in 1995 was 50% of total production. The food industry produces a wide range of products, including canned vegetables and fruits (jams, jellies, fruit juices), refined sugar and vegetable oil. Moldova is famous for its wines, including sparkling and cognacs.
Industry, including mining, construction and energy production, accounted for an increasingly large share of Moldova's economy in the early 1990s, despite a general decline in production. In 1995, industry accounted for 36.4% of the increase in net material product. In 1994, 19.4% of the country's working population was employed in the industrial sector. In the second half of the 1990s, there was a significant reduction in industrial production.
During the Soviet period, Moldova was an importer of industrial raw materials, industrial goods and fuel. The main exports were fresh and processed agricultural products. After gaining independence, the volume of foreign trade, largely oriented towards the CIS countries, declined sharply, although trade with these countries accounts for more than 2/3 of the total volume of foreign trade transactions. The main trading partners are Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Belarus and Germany. Exports are dominated by agricultural products (primarily wines and tobacco), textiles, machinery and chemical products. The main import items are oil, natural gas, coal, cars, and food. In 1996, Moldova's trade deficit reached $254.1 million.
Moldova is an independent republic located in southern Europe. On one side it borders with Romania, on the other with Ukraine. The country's population hovers around 3 million people. According to this indicator, Moldova ranks 118th in the world.
Subtleties of the region
It is best to start a description of Moldova with its capital. It is the city of Chisinau, in any sense, that is the heart of this sunny country. The official language is Moldovan, but Romanian is the constitutional language on the territory of the republic.
The main authorities are the President and Parliament. Territorially, the unitary state is conditionally divided into 32 districts, 5 municipalities and 2 autonomous entities. The largest cities in Moldova, in addition to the capital: Balti, Soroca, Tiraspol, Orhei and Bendery. Most of the population professes Orthodoxy.
Moldova is not a very rich country. Its annual GDP is just over $7.5 billion. On the territory of the republic, the main monetary currency is the Moldovan leu.
It is interesting that the country became independent politically only in August 1991, after the collapse of the USSR.
Advantages of geographical location
Moldova on the map is located just west of the Black Sea. It does not have a common border with the water area. The territory has a second time zone. The largest and most famous rivers are the Dniester and Prut. It is worth noting that Moldova has a long access to the Danube.
The total area of the republic is about 33.7 thousand square meters. km. The extreme geographical points are considered to be villages such as Naslavcea, Giurgiulesti, Palanca and Criva. There are practically no mountainous areas in the region, with the exception of minor massifs and ridges. But the soil contains a lot of sand, limestone, gravel, and gypsum.
The climate here is continental, temperate. In winter, the average temperature is -10 degrees, in summer - from +22 to +25. Precipitation is rare, so its annual level varies from 380 to 500 mm.
Most of the territory is occupied by villages, villages, plowed fields and forests. The cities of Moldova are evenly distributed throughout the region.
Historical property
Until the 14th century, the territory of modern Moldova was inhabited by tribes such as the Goths, Dacians and Antes. Then state formations began to appear, for example, the Galician and Old Russian principalities, the Golden Horde. From the end of the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire took control of the region.
In 1711, the great ruler of Moldavia swore allegiance to the Russian throne. He soon became a close associate of Peter I himself. At that time, Moldova was only a small part of the map of the Russian Empire, but it was extremely important from the point of view of military strategy. That is why the Turkish khans repeatedly captured it. And yet the Russian army managed to recapture the region after each enemy attack.
The republic was part of the Soviet Union as an autonomous MSSR.
Tourist destinations
Oddly enough, all the attractions of Moldova come down to historical heritage and winemaking. The tourism industry in the country is practically undeveloped. However, anyone who comes to Moldova can easily check into a hotel for little money and book any excursion they want. On the other hand, you can travel around the entire region using your own transport in a couple of days, visiting all the most interesting places and establishments.
Of course, the most important asset of the republic, which glorifies it throughout Europe, is winemaking. Even the most experienced taster must visit the famous cellars in Milesti and Cricova at least once in his life.
However, the attractions of Moldova do not end with the wines. There are a huge number of large and significant monuments and memorials throughout the country. Every city and village has its own historical monuments. The most notable are the monuments to Stefan cel Mare, victims of repression, Lenin, Kalinin, Kotovsky, Karl Marx, Pushkin, Komsomol heroes, Dzerzhinsky, etc. It would be a good idea to visit a place called Eternitate. The monument is also popular among tourists. This monument was erected by the Azerbaijani sculptor A. Askerov in honor of the cult Persian classic.
The main wineries of the country
In Moldova there are several factories and cellars where the sparkling drink of the gods is produced in compliance with all norms and old traditions. However, the city of Cricova is rightfully considered the main winery of the country. It is located near Chisinau and is part of the Riscani municipality.
The signature wines of Moldova have been produced here since the end of the 16th century. The legendary Cricova cellars are located under the city. They stretch for many kilometers, storing hundreds of wine collections within their walls. You cannot taste such drinks anywhere else in the world. All wines are squeezed only from berries growing in the country. The Cricova plant also produces vintage champagne drinks.
The city's basements maintain an optimal temperature of +12 degrees with a humidity of 97%. The total length of the complex is about 120 km.
History of the Soroca Fortress
This building represents a unique historical heritage of Moldova. Soroca Fortress was built in the 14th century. Its task was to establish control over the Dniester River and the surrounding territory. Based in the city of Soroca, two hours drive from Chisinau.
The fortress is made in a typical medieval style of defensive architecture. In 1543, thanks to the nobles of Transylvania, work was carried out to strengthen the main walls of the complex. Until this moment, the Soroca Fortress consisted of several towers and wooden fences. Artifacts from the ancient colony of Olkhonia and the Trypillian culture were repeatedly found on the territory of the historical monument.
The complex has an oval shape. It consists of 5 towers, one of which is an observation tower above the main entrance. The walls rise 21 meters. Their thickness varies within 3 m. It is worth noting that the foundation of the fortress is 7 m deep. The complex itself is small - 30.5 meters in diameter, but it never ceases to amaze with its majesty and massiveness.
Museum "Old Orhei"
To the east of the capital there are perhaps the main historical attractions of Moldova. First of all, this is the ancient architectural complex “Old Orhei”. It is a kind of open-air museum of the remains of settlements of ancient civilizations.
The complex is located in a gorge 200 meters deep. The caves date back hundreds of thousands of years. The remains of the first people testify to this.
Today, a favorite place for tourists in “Old Orhei” is the 12th century rock monastery. The territory of the museum occupies almost 1 square. km.
Bendery fortress
This architectural monument has been located on the banks of the Dniester since the mid-16th century. The construction of the fortress in Bendery began in 1538 on the instructions of the Ottoman emperor.
During the Russo-Turkish War from the 18th to the 19th century, the complex was captured by the Russian army several times. The most significant and final victory was marked in 1789. Then, under the leadership of A. Suvorov, the Russian army dealt a crushing blow to the Turks on the banks of the Dniester.
Currently, on the territory of the complex there is a military unit and the Orthodox Church of Alexander Nevsky. In addition, the attractions of Moldova include the Medieval Museum at the Bendery Fortress. Exhibits such as the Iron Lady, a knee crusher, an interrogation chair, piercing goats, etc. are collected here.
Monastery "Holy Trinity"
Built about 200 years ago in the village of Saharna. According to legend, here on a rock an old hermit monk saw the image of the Mother of God, who turned to him with instructions to erect a chapel on this place. Later, the Holy Trinity Monastery was founded in Saharna.
The local nature is picturesque and detached. Thousands of Orthodox people and pilgrims from all over the country come here every year. The monastery is also popular among foreign tourists.
The complex amazes with its majesty. It covers an area of 650 hectares. The monastery contains the relics of the Great Martyr Macarius and the trace of the Mother of God. There is a holy spring nearby.
Kitskani Monastery
This Ascension-Nyamets shrine is located an hour’s drive from Chisinau. The Kitskani monastery is strictly for men. It belongs to the Orthodox Church within the Moldovan Metropolitanate.
The complex consists of 4 churches: Voznesensky, Assumption, Nikolsky and Vozdvizhensky. Oak alleys with figures of novices carved on tree trunks lead to each cathedral. The Orthodox complex has its own hotel for pilgrims, its own library with ancient writings, a large museum, an icon-painting workshop and a full-fledged printing house.
Interestingly, the bell tower of the Kitskani Monastery is considered the highest point in the republic.
Holy complex in Tsypovo
The local Orthodox prayer service was founded in 1746. Thanks to her, the small village of Tipovo became famous far beyond the borders of Moldova. The monastery is located near the Dniester. It is a historical rock complex in which medieval monks lived one and a half millennia ago. It is noteworthy that this monastery is one of the ten largest rock shrines in Europe. About 20 spacious cells and 3 vertical levels with balconies have survived to this day.
The Tsypovo nature reserve and waterfalls are also famous attractions of Moldova. The nature here delights with its unique beauty. It is worth noting that it is in Tsypovo that the largest waterfalls in the country are located.
Opera and Ballet Theatre
This is the country's primary cultural heritage. The National Opera and Ballet Theater of the Republic of Moldova is based in Chisinau. Its founder is considered to be the famous artist Maria Biesu. The first foundation stone was laid in 1955.
The theater's debut production was Gershfeld's play "Grozovan." The first ballet was staged in 1957 by the master of his craft Astafiev - “The Bakhchisarai Fountain”. Since then, the National Theater annually attracts tens of thousands of classics lovers within its walls. Troupes and directors from all over the world come here. Local actors have repeatedly toured Romania, Bulgaria and many other European countries.
Every year, international festivals in honor of Maria Biesu are held within the walls of the Chisinau Opera and Ballet Theater.
