Chisinau Overview

Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, must not be missed by travellers. This city has a warm and temperate climate, averaging 27 degrees centigrade in the summer. Although it may be colder in winter, you won't feel cold with the warm hospitality from local Moldovans.
No matter what the weather, you will find locals strolling along the B-du Stefan cel Mare, Chisinau's main street; most of the town's sights can be found here. One of the main sights is the Cathedral of Christ's Nativity, which was built in the Empire style in 1836. Literary lovers will want to visit the Pushkin Museum to see where the famous writer spent his time in exile. If you need to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, there are many green spaces to rest in. There are also several theatres boasting world-class ballet and opera. After a long day of sightseeing, what could be better than a nice glass of Moldovan wine or brandy?

The city was under the control of the Ottoman Empire until 1812. As a result of the war between the Russian and Ottoman Empires, the city became part of the Russian Empire. After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Moldova became an independent state.

Things to Do

Chisinau may not be the most well-known European capital, but it offers plenty for travellers to see and do. Here are a few ideas:

Discover the city

Although Chisinau was largely destroyed in the Second World War, there are still many sights for eager history enthusiasts. The Cathedral of Christ's Nativity, built in 1836, survived the war and the Soviet period. Its bell tower was not so fortunate and was destroyed in 1962, but it was rebuilt in 1997. The famous Russian poet, Alexander Pushkin, spent three years of his life in this city during his internal exile. You can visit the house he lived in and get to know more of the poet's famous works.

Chill out in Chisinau

The city boasts numerous green parks where you can escape the city. The largest of these is the Botanica Park -- look out for the Stefan Cel Mare Monument, named after Stefan III of Moldova, that guards the entrance.

Catch a concert

Travellers can see a concert performed by a world-class orchestra at the National Philharmonic, which is situated on Mihai Eminescu street. Ballet buffs will not feel disappointed as there are regular performances at the Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Calendar of Events

Chisinau has many annual events throughout the year from parades to festivals. Here are a few to try:

• National Wine Day. This festival is held every year in October to celebrate Moldovan Wine. Over 100 vineyards take part in this event. Travellers will be able to try wine from all over Moldova. There is more than wine -- look out also for folk dance and music shows all over the city.

• Victory Day. On the public holiday in May, Moldovans remember the victims and the sacrifices made in the Second World War. There is a parade through the town which finishes at Victory Park.

• Gustar Music Festival. This music festival is held in August each year just outside the city. The festival attracts Moldovan and European bands. See [http://gustar.md/].