Moldova
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Eastern Europe
- Capital
- Chișinău
- Population
- 2.4 million (2024)
- Area
- 33,846 km²
- Languages
- Moldavian
- Currency
- Moldovan leu (MDL)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +373
Visited Still to go Click a pin or country to read more. Zoom with + and −, a double-click or a pinch.
Before you go
Overview
The Republic of Moldova is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. It relies heavily on Agriculture; it’s one of the poorest European countries.
The country recorded a population of 3.546 million in 2018 and covers an area of 33,846 km2.
Its capital city is Chisinau. The city has maintained the Soviet-style architecture such as the neoclassical Nativity Cathedral where the cathedral Church is situated.
The Capital, Chisinau
History
The Moldovan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was instituted east of Dniester River. Russian troops invaded and combined it with the Bessarabia of Romania to form the Moldovan Soviet Socialist Republic.
Moldova gained independent in 1991 after the fall of the Soviet Union.
Food & culture
The country’s culture is influenced by the Romanians who are the majority settled in the country, and the Slavic and Gagauz settlers.
The crops grown in the country are sugar beets, wheat, tobacco, grapes, potatoes, soybeans, corn, sunflowers and barley.
The popular dishes are Moldovan pie, stuffed cabbage rolls, stuffed bell peppers, borscht, Moldovan chicken noodle soup and polenta with cheese and sour cream.
Wildlife
The most common wildlife animals in the country are wild boar, wolves, polecat, hare, badgers, wildcats, martins and ermines.
Festivals & events
The main celebrated festivals include Martisor Music Festival, National Wine Day, Night of Museums, Moldova Classical Parachuting Cup, Velo Hora, Chisinau City Day and Bostaniada Festival.
Things to see
There is the National Museum of History that showcases the art and cultural heritage of the country and the neighbour Romania.
There is also the Soroca Fortress, a historic fortress in Soroca City.
There is also the Cricova, a historic facility for making wine with underground tunnels of 120 km.
Other good sites to visit are Capriana Monastery, The Triumph Arch and Orheiul Vechi.
Interesting facts
The country is famous for its delicious wine. Majority of the families make it at home while the wineries mainly produce for exportation.
The official language is Romanian.
The predominant religion in the country is Orthodox Christianity.
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Neighbours
My Bucket List goals in Moldova
None on the list yet. Got a suggestion? Email Dan.