Moldova, a country often overlooked, surprises with its captivating diversity. From sprawling vineyards and vibrant cities to picturesque villages and ancient monasteries, this hidden gem of Europe hides a multitude of places waiting to be discovered.
Here are several tourist destinations and places of unique beauty:
- National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History in Chisinau
The permanent exhibition, titled “Nature. Man. Culture,” unfolds a captivating presentation over an area of 2,000 square meters, revealing the evolution of the relationship between Man and Nature at different stages of societal development. It explores the evolution of the organic world, the dynamics of natural resource utilization, and the creative synthesis of the Man-Nature relationship. It also discusses the ecological situation in the Republic of Moldova and proposes ways to improve it.
The exhibition offers a fascinating insight into how the interaction between man and the environment has transformed over time, highlighting changes in human behavior and the impact on the surroundings. Through its 2,000 square meters, visitors are guided through various aspects of this evolution, illustrating how society and the environment have mutually influenced each other throughout history.
- National Museum of Archaeology and History
The museum was founded on December 21, 1983, through an order issued by the Ministry of Culture under number 561, “Regarding the reprofiling of museums.” This act was issued following the joint decision of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Moldova and the Council of Ministers of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic, dated November 29, 1983, which concerned the use of the historical building of the former boys’ gymnasium in Chisinau, the place where the young S. Lazo completed his studies.
The museum originated as an extension of the Republican Museum of Military Glory, incorporating this institute and acquiring an important collection of historical pieces from the State Museum of History and Homeland Study of the MSSR. The museum building has remained the same, currently undergoing restoration, in the former boys’ gymnasium No. 1 in Chisinau, where the Republican Museum of Military Glory was previously located.
- Zamfirache Ralli Mansion
The Zamfirache Ralli Mansion represents a former boyar residence from the early decades of the 19th century, built by Zamfirache Ralli, an influential boyar of Greek origin. This mansion is located in the village of Dolna, which was part of the Bessarabia Governorate at that time, now in the Strășeni district of the Republic of Moldova. Notably, the location became famous due to the regular visits of the renowned Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, who was exiled to Chisinau between 1821 and 1823.
- Fetești Quarry – “The Switzerland of Moldova”
The village of Fetești in the Edineț district is situated in a particularly picturesque area, where limestone deposits stand as an impressive testament to the power of nature. This place is also known as the “Little Switzerland of Moldova,” due to the enchanting landscapes it creates. The Fetești gorge, with a width of 250 meters, shelters numerous caves on its high and steep banks.
- Soroca Fortress
Soroca Fortress is a 15th-century Moldavian fortress, built of wood by Stephen the Great at the ford across the Dniester, and rebuilt in stone by Petru Rareș in the middle of the 16th century.
It is the only fortress located in the territory controlled by the Republic of Moldova.
Starting from May 2023, Soroca Fortress is temporarily closed to visitors as the second phase of restoration for this impressive medieval fortress has begun. Over the coming months, the fortress will become an active construction site, and both residents of Soroca and visitors will not have access inside to avoid any potential risk. These restoration works are carried out within the project “Stephen the Great, common history-common heritage, Soroca-Vaslui,” funded by the European Union. The reopening is planned for 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Soroca Fortress currently open to visitors?
No, Soroca Fortress is temporarily closed for restoration as of May 2023, with a scheduled reopening in 2024.
Why is Fetești village called the “Switzerland of Moldova”?
It earned this nickname due to its unique limestone formations, steep gorges, and enchanting natural landscapes that resemble alpine scenery.
Which famous poet visited the Zamfirache Ralli Mansion?
The renowned Russian poet Alexander Pushkin visited the mansion frequently during his exile in Chisinau between 1821 and 1823.