There are also beautiful, picturesque places in Moldova that are especially good to visit in spring and summer, when everything turns green, the air is filled with the aroma of flowers, and you can breathe easily and freely. Today I want to talk about these places.
First, a few words about the capital of the Republic of Moldova - Chisinau. I'll show you photos of local attractions, without unnecessary text. If anyone needs details, ask :)
Those arriving by plane will enter Chisinau through the city gates.
There are a large number of parks in Chisinau. Pushkin Park. In addition to the bust of Pushkin, there is also an alley of Romanian classics.
Cathedral Park, 5 minutes from Pushkin Park.
Arboretum. My favourite. It has been greatly improved this year. More details
The Botanical Garden is also a good place for a walk.
Valley of Roses with a Soviet Ferris wheel :) There is also a wonderful terrace by the lake. You can see
Government.
Parliament.
Presidential palace. On the right side is the Opera and Ballet Theater.
City view. The round building on the right side is a circus.
Now let’s take a walk around Moldova outside of Chisinau.
One of the beautiful places: Capriana Monastery.
The Capriana Monastery is located in a picturesque location in the middle of Codri (ancient Moldovan forests), not far from the capital - Chisinau - only 40 kilometers.
The most famous legend claims that it was from this monastery that the Moldavian state began its existence. The first mention of the Capriana monastery dates back to 1429.
History of the name: Capriana Monastery is located in an amazing depression, surrounded on three sides by forested hills. They say that six hundred years ago, Stephen the Great himself hunted here. According to legend, his men drove a young roe deer into a trap. The Lord was about to shoot her, but looked at her and saw that the animal seemed to be bowing. The hunter took pity on the roe deer and ordered the soldiers to leave it alive. A few hours after the hunt, Stefan learned about the birth of his daughter. That same night he had a vision that a great monastery would stand in this place, the name of which would be made up of the name of his daughter - Ana and the memories of an amazing roe deer - Capra. Together it turned out - Capriana.
At the exit from the monastery, there is an observation deck - wonderful landscapes open from there.
Do you like wine? Wine tourism lends itself to this:) You can visit the Cricova cellars, Milesti, Purcari. I will show you a place that I really like - Chateau Vartely. (40 km from Chisinau)
You can sit on the terrace with comfortable sofas.
For those who do not want to leave, you can stay overnight in comfortable houses.
The plains and hills of Moldova, its rivers and waterfalls, religious monuments, interesting simply because they have survived, excellent wines and traditional cuisine are just some of the reasons to visit this very small country.
Tourists, who have not paid attention to this land for a long time, are increasingly choosing it as an exciting travel destination. And they are not left disappointed!
Without a doubt, churches and monasteries, recently qualitatively restored, are the main attractions of Moldova. But not only! If you made a list of the most interesting places, it would look like this:
Cathedral of the Nativity, Chisinau
Built in 1832-1836 on the initiative of Archbishop Dumitru Sulim and designed by architect A.I. Melnikov in the empirical Russian style, the Cathedral of the Nativity consists of a church with 3 altars, a 4-level bell tower and the Holy Gate.
If you look from the outside, you will notice the majestic dome of the temple, which is supported by 4 massive columns. Its interior, decorated with paintings on biblical and evangelical themes, is literally flooded with light, primarily thanks to 12 beautifully outlined windows. The cathedral's bell tower was destroyed in the 60s of the last century, but was rebuilt in 1998.
Location: Piața Marii Adunări Naționale – 12.
Cathedral of Saints Constantine and Helena, Balti
One of the most majestic churches in Moldova, the Balti Cathedral was built in 1934. Built in the traditional Byzantine style, it is decorated with many decorative elements of the Art Nouveau style that was fashionable at that time. The entrance to the church is through an open porch, 2-level, with semicircular arches that are supported by woven columns. In the post-war period, the cathedral building was used as a warehouse, and later it housed a museum of history and ethnography.
Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Chisinau
It is not known exactly when the oldest church in Chisinau was built (according to some sources in 1752). It is located in the Old Town, on the banks of the Byk River. The church has an elongated nave, with 2 semicircular side apses. The temple's bell tower is beautiful, covered with a bell-shaped dome.
In 1960, the church was transferred to the Russian Old Believer community. To meet the needs of the community, in the 90s 2 porches were built to provide separate access for men and women, which significantly changed the appearance of the church.
Hidden in Codri, the Capriana Monastery was founded in 1429 by the ruler Stefan the Great. The monastery was for a long time the residence of the Metropolitan of Moldova. Many prominent figures of the country were buried here, including the chronicler Eftimi and the poet Ciprian. Having been closed and devastated during the Soviet era, the monastery was revived in the early years of independence. Superbly restored, today it is visited by a huge number of tourists.
In 1678, in Codri, at the source of the Kogalnik River, the great steward Mihail Hancu founded, at the request of his daughter, a nunnery. The wooden monastery was often devastated by the Tatars in the 17th century. In 1835, a stone church was built in the Russian-Byzantine style. During Soviet times it was closed by the authorities. In 1990, at the request of the local population, the monastery was reopened, soon becoming one of the most comfortable in the country. Near the monastery there are several springs with increased mineralization.
The village of Zhapka is well known to tourists, primarily due to the convent located here. This is the only monastery in Moldova that was not closed during Soviet times.
The first mention of it took place in 1693. The main church of the monastery was rebuilt several times. Today the monastery can be visited daily. Near it there are several other attractions: the paleontological monument “Skala Zhapka”, the Rashkov and Adanka Valley nature reserves, the “Nistru” sanatorium.
Located on the banks of the Dniester, the Saharna monastery is rightfully considered the largest religious center of pilgrimage in Moldova. It has been in operation since the 12th century. A new church was built in the Moldavian style closer to the gorge in 1777.
From the highest point of the monastery you can see the Saharna River, whose waters overcome more than 30 rapids and waterfalls. Near the monastery there is an interesting archaeological site dating back to the Iron Age, as well as a fortress from the Getae, the best preserved in Moldova.
On the rocky bank of the Dniester you can visit a unique rock monastery, which is considered one of the largest in Europe. The monastic community existed here long before the formation of the feudal state of Moldova.
It is believed that some of the cells were dug into the rocks in the 10th century. After the devastation during communist rule, the monastery was taken under state protection in 1994. Today the monastery is part of the Tsypovo conservation area, extensive and very interesting.
Ethnographic Museum, Chisinau
The oldest museum in Moldova, located in a building that is itself an architectural monument, was founded in 1889. The permanent exhibition of the museum, called “Nature. Human.
Culture”, introduces visitors to human evolution, the organic world and ecology of the Republic of Moldova. The museum also owns the Botanical Garden, where vegetation common throughout the country reigns.
Location: Strada Mihail Kogălniceanu – 82.
Historical Museum, Chisinau
Opened in 1987, the Chisinau Historical Museum has in its archives about 263,000 exhibits. It consists of several sections: archeology and ancient history, the Middle Ages, history of Bessarabia, modern history, treasures.
Of particular interest in the museum is the collection of weapons and armor, where you can get acquainted with Western European, Eastern, Soviet and Russian white weapons and firearms dating from the 16th to 20th centuries.
Open Air Museum Old Orhei, Orhei
Along the Reut River stretches Old Orhei, perhaps the most spectacular place in Moldova. It's full of history. In the 13th century, the residence of the Tatar Khan was established here: archaeologists found part of a Tatar bathhouse, with heated floors and radiators.
During the time of Stefan the Great, a fortress reinforced with towers was built in Old Orhei. However, the most impressive are the caves in the rocks of the gorge, carved by human hands. And today monastic life continues in them.
An excellently preserved medieval monument, the Soroca Fortress is located in the middle of the city of the same name. It was erected on the banks of the Dniester in 1499 by order of Stephen the Great on the site of an ancient Genoese fortress.
Throughout history, Peter the Great, Bogdan Khmelnitsky, Alexander Suvorov visited here. The Soroca Fortress is not very large (37.5 meters in diameter), but very strong, with 4 round towers, walls 3 meters wide and 21 meters high. It is located on a foundation that goes underground to a depth of 7 meters.
Reserve “Padurea Domneasca”, Donduseni
Between the Prut and Kamenka rivers there is an ancient forest, in which most of the oak trees are centuries-old. In 1993, the “Princely Forest” was declared a nature reserve. In 2005, 3 bison were brought here, which comfortably settled on these lands and began to breed. Every year, the reserve is visited by about 7,000 tourists who prefer the eco option.
Cinderella Cave, Kriva
The cave was discovered in 1959 during blasting operations to expand a gypsum quarry. Called Cinderella, it is one of the world's largest gypsum caves.
Hidden here about 20 lakes, the largest of which are: Green Lake, Dinosaur Lake, Nautilus Lake and Lake Sip of Water. The water in them is rich in mineral salts, which have a healing effect on the human body. Cinderella consists of galleries and labyrinths, 91 kilometers long, located on 4 levels. Particularly impressive are the gigantic halls (approximately 60 meters long, 30 meters wide and 11 meters high), which also have names: Waiting Room, Cathedral Hall, 100 Meter Hall.
The largest wine cellars in the world are located in Moldova, just a few kilometers from Chisinau, in the city of Cricova. There is a city of winemakers, streets named after wines, tasting rooms, warehouses. You can travel along the underground streets of Cabernet, Feteasca or Pino on tourist buses, accompanied by guides. The total length of Cricova's galleries exceeds 60 kilometers.
The ambient temperature here is always +12 degrees, and the humidity is 97-98%. After all, they are the ideal conditions for storing more 30,000,000 liters branded wines. Cricova is a real calling card of Moldova! Interesting, colorful, sparkling!
When you mention this small, but very colorful and hospitable country, you immediately see endless sun-drenched grape fields and picturesque valleys where flocks of sheep graze in green spaces. In addition to natural resources, Moldova is rich in monuments of ancient Orthodoxy, which will be interesting for every Christian to see.
Located in the South-West of the European Plain, between Ukraine and Romania, Moldova captivates the eyes of tourists with its unique and varied landscape. This “little piece of Paradise,” as this country is called, has everything: dense protected forests, numerous rivers, wide plains and hills covered with a variety of flowers and herbs...
But in Moldova, in addition to the picturesque nature, there are many other attractions that tourists must see with their own eyes.
Sights of sunny Moldova
Soroca Fortress
Being part of a large defensive system surrounding the principality like a stone belt, the Soroca fortress is an almost absolute circle, formed of five stone towers, equidistant from each other.
The construction is based on the principle of the “golden ratio”, which makes the fortress unique.
It has been preserved in exactly the same form in which it was designed and built by the masters of the Middle Ages. In addition to the fortress itself, a small military church remained virtually untouched right above its central gate.
Address: Soroca Fortress is located 160 kilometers north of the capital of Moldova - Chisinau, in the center of the city of Soroca, before reaching the crossing of the Dniester River.
Working hours: Monday – closed. Tuesday – Sunday from 9.00 to 18.00
Price: Adult ticket– 5 lei; Child ticket– 3 lei.
It is also called the “Arch of Victory” and the “Holy Gate”. Appeared in the heart of the capital of Moldova in 1840. The height of this beautiful structure is 13 meters.
A huge bell is suspended under the dome of the Arc de Triomphe, and on the front façade there are chimes.
The arch of the same name in Rome served as an example for the architect Luka Zaushkevich when designing the Chisinau “Gate”.
The history of the creation of the Arch is very remarkable: initially it was not planned at all, but when the bells brought from Izmail for the Cathedral in the capital of Moldova turned out to be too large for the belfry, they decided to build a special supporting structure for them, and at the same time, attach the city clock to it.
Address: Central square of the city of Chisinau.
Old Orhei
Old Orhei is a real “open-air museum”. Many cities were built and destroyed on this land, and each left its mark.
The city that the first settlers founded here was called Orhei, which means “fortification”. Unable to withstand the onslaught of the Golden Horde, it was conquered and renamed Shehr al-Jedid; as evidence of this, the museum contains a large collection of ceramics made in an exquisite oriental style. In addition to these exhibits, Muslims left behind a mosque, baths and mausoleums. All these antiques are quite well preserved.
Afterwards, the city was destroyed several more times and created on this site. The last time, the residents changed their place of residence and settled twenty kilometers to the north, where they gave the name to the city - Orhei, and this territory became known as Old Orhei and turned into a tourist attraction.
There is a lot to see in Old Orhei: rock-cut Christian monasteries, caves with ancient writings, fortresses.
The breathtaking rocky terrain and extraordinary buildings will not leave anyone indifferent.
Address: Old Orhei is located 60 km to the North-East from the capital of the country - the city of Chisinau.
Working hours: No days off. From 9.00 to 19.00.
Cost: Ticket price – 110 lei per person.
Tsypovo
This is an ancient monastery and village where life seems to have stopped since the late 18th century.
The rock monastery, founded in the 6th century, amazes with its monumentality and grandeur. Every year thousands of tourists visit this place to touch the shrine.
If this monastery impressed you, be sure to visit the mountain monastery if you ever find yourself in Georgia.
Inside the monastery, the cells and halls are quite well preserved. And from the outside, the entire monastery looks like a whitish spot on a huge rock.
In the village of Tsypovo there are houses and fences painted in a folk style, and there are always stone wells near the farmsteads.
Address: Rezinsky district, village of Tsypovo, about 100 km from Chisinau.
Opening hours: The attraction is open daily from 8.00 to 19.00.
Cost: Excursion to Tipovo – 160 lei per person.
Emil Rakovice, the scientist after whom this cave was named, discovered it in 1959 quite by accident, during development.
Now she is a celebrity in Moldova and a must have on any tourist’s list of visits.
“Cinderella,” as the cave was popularly called, consists of several levels, and its area is almost 90 km. In addition to several halls, such as “Cinderella”, “Dacia” and “Hall of Columns”, the cave has more than a dozen underground lakes, here are the names of some: “Nautilus”, “Lake of Dinosaurs”. Their waters are rich in minerals and beneficial salts.
The halls of the underground gallery are painted in the most bizarre colors - green, pink, blue, red.
Address: Village of Kriva, 260 km north of the capital of Moldova.
Opening hours: Every day from 8.00 to 18.00.
Cost: The price of an excursion ticket is 150 lei per person. Children under 7 years old are not recommended to visit this attraction for safety reasons.
Thanks to this green area in the city center, Chisinau was recognized as the greenest city in Europe. On 7 hectares there are more than 500 species of trees, walking alleys and, of course, various decorative elements of the park. In the center of the former Pushkin Park there is a large fountain, from which begins the wide walking alley of Classics, which is crowned with a bust of the poet A.S. Pushkin by the famous sculptor A. Opekushin.
Next to the Park there is the Great Assembly Square with a monument to the ruler of Moldavia, Stefan the Great.
Address: Stefan Cel Mare Park is located in the capital - Chisinau.
Hinku Monastery
The Hinku Monastery is one of the first most visited monasteries in Moldova. The daughter of steward Mihail Hincu expressed her desire to become a nun, and he founded a nunnery right in the middle of a forest area called Codra in Moldova.
During the Tatar invasions, the monastery was often destroyed, so it often stood empty. Later stone cells and chapels were added to it. And at the end of the 19th century, the Orthodox built a winter church - the Assumption of the Mother of God.
The complex of buildings of the monastery fits surprisingly harmoniously into the surrounding nature, which makes it truly unique.
Address: Hancu Monastery is located 55 km West of the capital of Moldova, at the beginning of the Kagalnik River.
Opening hours: The monastery is open daily from early morning until 19.00.
Cost: The cost of the excursion is 130 lei per person.
Organ Hall
Originally built for completely different purposes, the building has amazing acoustics and is currently the only hall for the performance of organ music in Chisinau.
It must be said that there are not even two dozen such places in the whole world.
At first it was the “House of Borrowings,” which helped clergy financially in difficult situations.
But, due to insufficiently efficient and productive work, the building was transferred to the Church of Bessarabia. It houses the Bank of Orthodox Clergy of Bessarabia.
During the Second World War, the Bank ceased operations, and later, when the city leadership decided its fate, the acoustics of the room played a decisive role and the building was given over to art.
Address: Chisinau city, Stefan the Great Boulevard, 126
Opening hours: The operating hours of the organ hall depend on the concert schedule and are specified on site.
Cost: The approximate cost of tickets is 200-300 lei per person.
Tourist impressions
Most tourists, having visited Moldova, are unanimous that the people here are the most hospitable and hospitable, as well as kind-hearted and gentle. And nature itself, to match the Moldovans, is just as soft and calm.
Everyone who comes here notes the strength and power of nature that surrounds the traveler. The breath of protected forests and the stern gaze of holy faces from rocky ledges - the walls of mountain monasteries - all this makes you reverently and contemplate with bated breath the surrounding reality.
Tourists also note the relatively inexpensive service. The price, however, does not in any way affect the quality of services, which are excellent.
The guides are always friendly and polite, the service in hotels and houses is not satisfactory, the food is simple but incredibly tasty.
As for souvenirs, it is allowed to transport a certain amount of one of the main riches of Moldova across the border - wine. Here it is special, having absorbed all the sun and winds of the grape fields.
A generous, diverse region - the Republic of Moldova - is always happy to welcome guests. And although this direction is not yet considered particularly popular among many European countries, it is rapidly developing and in the near future, thanks to the efforts of the country’s government, it will reach the same level as the European countries that have already developed in terms of resorts.
Don't rush to leave! Here are some more interesting articles:
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.
Moldova is a picturesque and beautiful country, whose landscapes are replete with wooded hills, wide lakes and green plains. Moldova is famous for its famous vineyards, from which they produce delicious wines.
Kishinev
Standing on seven hills, Chisinau is a concentration of lakes and parks. On the territory of this city there are many beautiful and interesting places that preserve the history of the country. Witnesses of deep antiquity were the ruins of ancient stone fortresses and embankments of signal posts.
Chisinau is the capital of Moldova and has the status of a historically significant city in the country, which it owes to its historical center. Once upon a time, the entire city fit within this area, but today it is only a small part of it, built up with architectural monuments. Among the buildings of past centuries that have survived to this day, the most impressive are the Mazarakievskaya Church, which has a vault of two tiers of arches traditional for Moldavian architecture, the Annunciation and Riscani churches.
The most beautiful places in modern Chisinau are numerous parks, each of which was designed according to individual plans. Parks Valea Morilor, Valea Trandafirilor, La Izvor, Alunelul, the Cathedral Square and others - they are all strikingly different from each other and have their own unique landscape. Some of them contain quiet ponds where you can see wild birds, others have magnificent lakes, and others are located around theaters or museums.
Cricova
It is simply impossible to visit Moldova and not visit a town called Cricova. This city is known throughout the world for its huge collection of wines, among which there are not only Moldovan wines, but also rare varieties of wine production from other countries (Spanish, French, Italian wines).
Cricova is a small town, most of which is underground. The long corridors of underground streets stretch for tens of kilometers; it is in these cellars that the famous wine collection of Moldova is located. The names of the underground streets are also of interest - they are all named after different types of wine. Only in Cricova you can stroll along Cabernet Street and then turn onto Isabella Boulevard.
This unique place in Moldova is also famous thanks to the factory located here for the production of sparkling wines produced in accordance with the classical champagne technology.
Capriana
One of the most beautiful places in Moldova is Capriana, a tiny village in the southwest of the country. Located in solitude from large cities, it is a real piece of paradise where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of big cities and indulge in admiring nature.
On the territory of Capriana, next to a picturesque lake, there is an ancient monastery that survived the Soviet era with its militant atheism.
In fact, the monastery is a whole complex of three buildings belonging to different eras, which makes this place truly unique. The oldest part of the monastery - the Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary - was built in the 14th century; the Church of St. Nicholas added to the complex in 1800, and the Church of St. George in the 1900s.
Orhei-Veci
Orhei Vechi is one of the most ancient settlements in Moldova. The history of these places goes back to ancient times, and, unfortunately, only a small part of the attractions have reached us in their original form. Among the surviving architectural monuments, the Hermitage of Butusheni should be highlighted, built back in the 13th century by monks, which served not only as a temple, but also as a refuge during periods of hostilities. During the war against the Turkish invaders, residents of the surrounding villages dug an underground passage into the chapel to pray in secret from the enemy.
No less interesting and beautiful in their own way are the dilapidated sights of archaeological significance: the ruins of a village in which archaeologists found complex stone tools and many household items. On the territory of these places, the remains of mausoleums, an ancient mosque, a caravanserai and a harem, as well as several baths and residential buildings were found.
Balti
Balti is one of the largest cities in Moldova, which is also its industrial center. The city is located near the capital of the country on the banks of the Reut River.
Balti is rich in architectural monuments, most of which date back to the early 1900s: the Alley of Warriors, the Alley of Classics, the Church of St. George, the Church of St. Paraskeva, the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul. The most ancient buildings in the city are the Church of St. Nicholas and the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin.
The surroundings of the city, thanks to the picturesqueness and beauty of these places, are created for walking and horseback riding, the routes of which run along small villages, where you can see many beautiful places and get acquainted with Moldovan traditions.
