Tucked between Romania and Ukraine is the nation of Moldova, which grew directly out of the former Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic after the fall of the USSR in 1991. As a country still trying to define its political and cultural orientations, Moldova makes for an interesting tourist spot with plenty of accessible attractions. Though it is poorer than its neighbors and engaged in a frozen standoff with a secessionist state known as Transnistria, Moldova merits attention because of the rich, though often conflicted, interplay between Romanian and Russian influences. Romania and Moldova are inextricably related by language and culture, but the Russian/Soviet domination of Moldova’s people has also left an indelible mark on the nation, as did years of Ottoman influence prior.
Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, is the perfect place for visitors to begin sorting through national history as told through its tourist attractions. Known for its many white buildings and its almost lush greenery, Chisinau is reasonably attractive and somewhat modernized despite extensive damage during World War II and relative stasis during Soviet domination. Because Chisinau is still developing its identity as a European capital, now is the time to visit and experience the tensions between old and new.
The following tourist attractions provide a basic introduction for Chisinau visitors.
Triumphal Arch. Located in the heart of Chisinau’s city centre, this clock-bearing structure is a combination of Corinthian columns and other styles reflecting Greek and Roman traditions. A giant copper bell is suspended from the arch’s dome, but chimes (and not the bells) actually sound the hours. The large bells and several smaller bells were cast in 1839 using metal war booty that the Russians had collected in their recent defeat of the Turks. The bells of the arch thus signal a change in the Moldovan land control from the Turks to the Russians. Now that Moldova is truly independent, the arch and its bells are a mixed-feeling reminder to residents and visitors of the Russian takeover.
Cathedral of Chisinau. Originally built in the 1830s to honor the nativity, this grand church is sometimes known as the Christmas Cathedral. As part of the Russian plan to develop the city centre, the church stood gloriously for over 100 years before becoming badly damaged by WWII fighting. Although restoration work was done immediately, Soviet leadership eventually converted the church to secular use and forcefully removed the bell tower. Upon declaring its independence from the USSR, Moldova began converting the cathedral back into a holy space, restoring the bell tower and recommencing services.
Stefan cel Mare Park. Celebrating the great Moldovan leader who defended his people against invading armies in the 15th century, this park features a bronze statue of Steven the Great. In fact, the park runs along a boulevard which also bears his name. Continuing the trend of greenery in Chisinau, this park and its fountain provide a pictureqsue backdrop for weddings, chess matches, and family strolls. This relaxing yet lively chunk of green space is like a smaller-scale version of New York’s Central Park.
Chisinau Market. Just off the Boulevard Stefan cel Mare, near Tighina Street, is the main outdoor market in Chisinau. Although it may not seem like a spectacular destination for visitors, it is a place to see Moldovan residents buying food, trading goods, and engaging in the everyday commerce that combines old folkways with a new economy. It’s colorful and even hectic – a must-see.
Other Attractions
Cathedral of Saint Tiron. An almost Baltic blue, this Orthodox church was just renovated in 2004.
