HISTORIC CITIES. TIMELESS STORIES.
Moldova
Explore medieval fortresses, ancient monasteries and historic towns at the crossroads of Eastern Europe. From Chișinău’s tree-lined boulevards to Orheiul Vechi’s dramatic cliffs and Soroca’s fortress, Moldova reveals centuries of cultural exchange, faith and resilience.
A LAND OF FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES AND LIVING HISTORY
Discover Moldova Through the Ages
From the medieval Principality of Moldavia and Orthodox monastic traditions to imperial rule, Soviet-era architecture and modern independence, Moldova’s layered past survives in its fortresses, villages, cities and landscapes.
EXPLORE BY DESTINATION
Discover Moldova’s Destinations
Chișinău
Discover Moldova’s capital through its nineteenth-century streets, Cathedral Park, museums, Orthodox churches and monuments that trace the city’s changing political history.
Orheiul Vechi
Explore a spectacular archaeological and cultural landscape with cave monasteries, ancient settlement remains and limestone cliffs above the Răut River.
Soroca
See the remarkable circular Soroca Fortress on the Dniester River, built in stone under Stephen the Great’s successors, and uncover centuries of frontier history.
Căpriana
Visit one of Moldova’s oldest monastic communities, where reconstructed church buildings and wooded landscapes recall centuries of Orthodox religious heritage.
Cricova
Discover the vast underground wine galleries developed in the Soviet era, where Moldova’s longstanding winemaking traditions meet modern cultural heritage.
MOLDOVA THROUGH THE AGES
A Brief History of Moldova
From the medieval Principality of Moldavia to Russian and Soviet rule, union with Romania and independence in 1991, the region’s history reflects shifting borders, languages and cultural identities.
1359
Principality of Moldavia
The medieval principality emerges, eventually encompassing lands on both sides of the Prut River.
1812
Russian Annexation
The Russian Empire annexes eastern Moldavia, commonly known as Bessarabia, after the Treaty of Bucharest.
1918
Union with Romania
Bessarabia’s assembly votes for union with Romania following the collapse of the Russian Empire.
1940
Soviet Takeover
The Soviet Union takes control of Bessarabia; much of the territory becomes the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic.
1991
Independence
Moldova declares independence from the Soviet Union on 27 August.
1992
Transnistria Conflict
Armed conflict on the eastern bank of the Dniester ends in a ceasefire, leaving an unresolved territorial dispute.
Medieval Crossroads
Soroca Fortress and Orheiul Vechi reveal the region’s role in the medieval principality and along important trading and defensive routes.
Sacred Heritage
Monasteries such as Căpriana preserve Moldova’s Orthodox traditions through periods of changing imperial and political power.
Layers of Identity
Romanian-language culture, diverse communities and Soviet-era legacies all contribute to Moldova’s complex modern identity.
PLAN YOUR MOLDOVA TRIP
Everything You Need for Moldova
Everything you need to plan your trip to Moldova, from places to stay and things to do to transport and flights.
Hotels
Find welcoming city hotels, countryside guesthouses and family-run stays near Moldova’s historic sites.
Tours & Activities
Book guided visits to Chișinău, medieval fortresses, monasteries and the Orheiul Vechi cultural landscape.
Car Hire
Explore Moldova’s towns, monasteries and rural landscapes on a flexible road trip.
Flights
Compare flight routes to Chișinău and plan an arrival that suits your itinerary.
Trains & Buses
Plan coach and other overland connections to Moldova’s historic towns; check current routes and border requirements.