The Great National Assembly Square
The Great National Assembly Square: Chișinău's Heart
The Triumphal Arch: A Symbol of Chișinău
Discover Chișinău's Triumphal Arch: a symbol of victory, history, and architectural beauty in the heart of Moldova's capital.
The Triumphal Arch in Chișinău, Moldova, stands as a landmark in the city's cultural and historical landscape. Constructed in 1840, it commemorates the Russian Empire's victory over the Ottoman Empire. Located in the heart of Chișinău, it provides a window into the nation's past and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Triumphal Arch
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
The Great National Assembly Square, Chișinău, Sectorul Buiucani, MD
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Getting There
Walking
The Triumphal Arch is located in the heart of Chișinău on the Great National Assembly Square, making it easily accessible on foot from many central locations. From Ștefan cel Mare Central Park, walk south towards the Great National Assembly Square. The Arch will be visible in the square, near the Nativity Cathedral. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport
Chișinău's public transportation network includes trolleybuses, buses, and minibuses. Many routes pass through the city center and stop near the Great National Assembly Square. Look for routes that list stops at 'Piața Marii Adunări Naționale' or 'Centru'. A ticket for a bus, trolleybus, or minibus costs 6 MDL. You pay the conductor on board.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Chișinău. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app such as Yandex Go or iTaxi. A short taxi ride within the city center will likely cost between 30 and 51.5 MDL, with a base fare of 30 MDL and an additional 4.3 MDL per kilometer. Ensure the driver turns on the taximeter.
Local tips
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Visit the arch during national celebrations to witness military parades and major public events.
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Explore nearby attractions such as the Nativity Cathedral and the National Museum of History of Moldova.
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Take advantage of the pedestrian-friendly zone around the arch.
Discover more about The Triumphal Arch
The Triumphal Arch, also known as the "Holy Gates" or "Arch of Victory", is located on the Great National Assembly Square in Chișinău. The arch was built in 1840 by architect Luka Zauschevic to commemorate the Russian Empire's victory over the Ottoman Empire in the Russo-Turkish War. However, the arch's construction was accidental. The governor of Chisinau requested the Tsar cast bells for the city's cathedral. When the bells arrived, the largest was too big for the cathedral tower. As a result, authorities decided to construct the arch to house the bell and serve as a decoration for the city.The design of the arch has a 13-meter square-shaped structure divided into two levels. The lower level is a walk-through passage with four pylons on pedestals with Corinthian columns. The upper tier resembles an attic style, completed by cornices. The first clock on the arch appeared in 1842, brought from Odessa. The monument has undergone several name changes, including Arch of Triumph and Arch of Victory. Today, the Triumphal Arch is acclaimed as one of the five most beautiful triumphal arches in the world.
A brief summary to The Triumphal Arch
Use The Triumphal Arch as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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