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Stephen the Great Monument: A Symbol of Moldovan Identity

A tribute to Moldova's greatest hero, Prince Stephen the Great, standing proudly in Chișinău's central park, a symbol of national pride and resilience.

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The Stephen the Great Monument, located in Central Chișinău, stands as a tribute to Moldova's greatest ruler, Prince Stephen the Great, who reigned from 1457 to 1504. The monument, designed by Alexandru Plămădeală, was erected in 1927 and has become a focal point for national celebrations and a significant tourist attraction.

A brief summary to Stephen the Great Monument

  • Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt în Parcul Ștefan cel Mare, Chișinău, Sectorul Buiucani, 2012, MD

Local tips

  • Visit during national holidays to witness flower-laying ceremonies and public celebrations.
  • Explore the adjacent Stephen the Great Central Park for a relaxing stroll.
  • Take photos from different angles to capture the monument's grandeur.
  • Learn about Stephen the Great's history to appreciate the monument's significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From anywhere in the city center, the monument is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards Stephen the Great Central Park; the monument stands at its main entrance, facing Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt.

  • Public Transport

    Many buses and trolleybuses stop near the Stephen the Great Monument. Check local transit apps like map.md or EasyWay for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. A single ride costs 6 MDL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Chișinău. Use ride-hailing apps like Yandex Taxi or call a local taxi service. A short taxi ride within the city center should cost around 50 MDL. Ensure the driver uses the taximeter.

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Discover more about Stephen the Great Monument

The Stephen the Great Monument is a prominent landmark in Chișinău, situated at the entrance to Stephen the Great Central Park. This bronze statue commemorates Stephen the Great, a revered figure in Moldovan history who defended the country against Turkish invasion in the 15th century. The monument was designed in 1923 by sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală and completed in 1927. It was officially opened in April 1928, replacing a monument to Alexander II of Russia. The statue was cast in Bucharest at a cost of 4,000,000 lei. Plămădeală studied various portraits of Stephen the Great to achieve an accurate representation. The monument has had a tumultuous history, reflecting Moldova's complex past. In 1940, before the Soviet occupation, it was moved to Vaslui, Romania, and its pedestal was destroyed. It was returned to Chișinău in 1942, only to be taken back to Romania in 1944. In 1945, Soviet authorities ordered its restoration in Chișinău. Finally, in 1989, it was returned to its original location. The monument features inscriptions and is a site for public gatherings, national holiday celebrations, and official ceremonies. Today, the Stephen the Great Monument remains one of Chișinău's top attractions, symbolizing Moldovan identity and resilience.

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