A surprising country
Moldova is a relatively unknown country, yet it has so much to offer! It’s time to change that perception. From its rich history and beautiful nature to the varied languages and cultures that make Moldova unique—there’s so much to discover and experience! Before booking a trip to Moldova, it’s helpful to learn more about this beautiful country and everything it has to offer.
“Where is Moldova, exactly?” is a common question. Moldova is a small country in Eastern Europe, nestled between Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south. The country is landlocked, meaning it has no access to the sea.
The country’s main natural borders are formed by rivers. To the west, the Prut River marks the boundary with Romania. To the east, the Dniester (Nistru) River flows through Moldova, creating a natural barrier with Ukraine. These rivers are crucial for the country’s agriculture and water supply.
The landscape of Moldova is truly breathtaking: rolling hills covered with vineyards, vast sunflower fields, and golden wheat fields. As a visitor, you can enjoy the fresh vegetables, fruits, and other natural products that the country has to offer.
The Bălănești Hill, standing at 430 meters, is the highest point in the country. In the northern and central parts of Moldova, you’ll find deep gorges and valleys carved by rivers, making the landscape even more diverse. For nature lovers, the Codri Forests are a beautiful destination. Here, you can encounter wild animals like deer, foxes, and hundreds of bird species. These forests have always played an important role in the country’s history and culture.
Despite its small size and location, Moldova plays an important role in the region, especially due to its fertile agricultural lands. The soil in Moldova, particularly the chernozem, is considered some of the most fertile in the world. This dark, rich soil is ideal for farming, making agriculture a key part of Moldova’s economy. The country produces a wide range of crops, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and, of course, grapes for its famous wine production.
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Moldova’s nature is a hidden gem that you must experience. Discover scenic hills, expansive vineyards, and deep valleys. Visit national parks like Orheiul Vechi or the serene Codri Forest and immerse yourself in the breathtaking nature of Moldova. Whether you love hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Moldova offers a peaceful escape with stunning landscapes.
Although Moldova is landlocked and has no direct access to the sea, its proximity to the Black Sea influences the country’s weather and trade. Moldova experiences a moderate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The summers are typically sunny and pleasant, while winters can bring cold temperatures, often accompanied by snow. This climate is ideal for agriculture, contributing to the country’s fertile lands and rich crop production.
Summers in Moldova are typically warm to hot, with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 30°C. During heatwaves, temperatures can sometimes reach 35°C. On the other hand, winters are cold, with temperatures often around -4°C to -6°C. During particularly cold periods, temperatures can drop to -15°C or even lower. This seasonal variation creates a diverse climate that supports both agricultural growth in the summer and a winter landscape ideal for snow activities.
Spring and autumn in Moldova are generally mild. Spring typically begins slowly, with relatively cool temperatures in March, gradually rising to 15-20°C by May. Autumn starts off pleasantly with temperatures around 20°C in September, but by November, the temperatures quickly drop, marking the transition to winter. These seasons offer a beautiful mix of fresh blooms in spring and colorful foliage in autumn, making it a great time to explore Moldova’s landscapes.
Moldova receives an average of about 400 to 600 millimeters of rain per year, with the majority of precipitation occurring in spring and summer. This amount of rainfall is not extreme, which means that certain areas can feel quite dry at times. However, when it does rain, it can sometimes pour heavily, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden downpours.
The history of Moldova is a fascinating tale of power, influence, and resilience. Strategically located between Eastern and Southeastern Europe, this country has been shaped over the centuries by the fluctuating dominance of great empires and cultures. From the formation of the Principality of Moldova in the Middle Ages to modern independence in 1991, Moldova’s history offers a fascinating insight into its complex past.
The Principality of Moldova was founded in 1359 by Bogdan I. At that time, the principality covered a much larger area than modern-day Moldova, stretching from the Carpathians to the Dniester River. Under the leadership of Ștefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great), who ruled from 1457 to 1504, the principality experienced a period of prosperity and stability. Ștefan cel Mare, known for his military successes against the Ottomans, Hungarians, and Poles, remains an iconic figure in Moldovan history.
In the 16th century, Moldova became a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire. Although the principality was required to pay tribute to the Ottomans, it retained a certain degree of autonomy. This situation lasted until the 19th century, when the geopolitical landscape of the region changed again.
The geopolitical dynamics of Moldova changed drastically in the early 19th century. After the Treaty of Bucharest in 1812, Bessarabia, the eastern part of the Moldovan principality, was annexed by the Russian Empire. The western part remained connected to Moldova and later became part of Romania. This marked the beginning of a long period of Russian influence in the region.
Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, Bessarabia declared independence in 1918 and chose to join the Kingdom of Romania. This union lasted until the outbreak of World War II, when the Soviet Union annexed Bessarabia in 1940 as part of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. During the war, the area was briefly occupied by the Axis powers, but after the war, it returned under Soviet control. It became part of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic within the USSR.
The Soviet period brought industrialization and collectivization to Moldova, but it was also marked by harsh repression. Many Moldovans were deported to Siberia and other remote parts of the Soviet Union. Soviet authorities attempted to create a distinct Moldovan identity, separate from the Romanian identity, despite the shared language and culture. To emphasize this separation, the Cyrillic alphabet was introduced.
With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Moldova declared its independence. The first years of independence were marked by economic difficulties, political instability, and a challenging transition to a market economy. One of Moldova’s biggest challenges was the secession of Transnistria, a region along the Dniester River that declared independence in 1990 and has been de facto independent since, although it is not internationally recognized.
Since independence, Moldova has struggled to balance a pro-European course with its historical ties to Russia. In 2009, the country joined the European Union’s Eastern Partnership, but internal divisions between pro-European and pro-Russian factions continue to dominate the political landscape.
An impressive landmark symbolizing the independence of Moldova is the Independence Monument in Chișinău. Located in the heart of the capital, this monument stands as a tribute to the freedom Moldova gained in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The monument is a beloved spot for both locals and tourists, often used for official ceremonies and national commemorations.
Moldova is known for its warm hospitality, rich culture, and centuries-old traditions. While Moldovans may seem reserved towards strangers (especially if you don’t speak the language), once they get to know you, you’ll discover just how welcoming and friendly they truly are. Moldovans take pride in making their guests feel at home and are always eager to share what they have, even if it’s modest.
Guests are often treated to delicious homemade dishes and some of the best wines stored in the country’s renowned wine cellars. Moldova is one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and wine is seen as a symbol of friendship and hospitality. Life in Moldova is full of warmth and joy, and celebrations can go on until the early hours of the morning.
Discover the world famous
Moldova is a paradise for wine lovers, renowned for its centuries-old wine traditions. Two absolute highlights are the wine cellars of Cricova and Milestii Mici. These locations are among the largest underground wine cellars in the world, offering a unique experience that cannot be found anywhere else. The historic Castel Mimi is also a must-visit for wine enthusiasts, providing a perfect blend of tradition, culture, and fine wine.
Moldova has a unique mix of Romanian, Russian, Turkish, and Ukrainian influences, visible in its music, dance, holidays, and cuisine. Especially in the countryside, traditions and crafts are cherished and preserved. Moldovans proudly share these traditions with visitors, offering a glimpse into the country’s vibrant heritage.
Moldovan folk music and dance, such as the energetic Hora and Sârba, play a significant role in the culture. Traditional instruments like the flute, violin, and cimbalom bring the rich history to life, especially during festivals and weddings. These vibrant performances are an essential part of Moldovan celebrations, showcasing the country’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.
Important celebrations in Moldova include Independence Day (August 27), Mărțișor (March 1), and religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas. Mărțișor marks the arrival of spring with red-and-white amulets, symbolizing hope and new life. These celebrations, deeply rooted in tradition, reflect the vibrant cultural spirit of Moldova and offer visitors a chance to experience the warmth and joy of Moldovan customs.
Moldovan cuisine is simple yet flavorful, with dishes like mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and plăcinte (savory pies). Fresh, local ingredients are central to the cuisine, and meals are shared with love and hospitality. Food plays an important role in Moldovan culture, often served in large portions during gatherings and celebrations, offering a taste of the country’s rich culinary traditions.
Moldova lies at the crossroads of several cultures, with a population of just under 3 million people. This diverse population consists of various ethnic communities, including Romanians, Russians, Ukrainians, Gagauz, Bulgarians, Roma, and Jews.
Romanian influences are strongly present, especially in the language, as most Moldovans speak Romanian. At the same time, Moldova has a significant Russian influence, particularly in regions like Transnistria and certain urban areas. This influence dates back to the time when Moldova was part of the Russian Empire and later the Soviet Union. As a result, many Moldovans are bilingual, speaking both Romanian and Russian.
In urban areas such as the capital, Chișinău, some residents also speak English or Italian, particularly due to migration and international trade. However, in rural areas, Romanian or Russian is more commonly spoken.