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Chisinau City History Museum: Chronicle of the Capital

Explore Chisinau's past within a historic water tower, from its early days to its modern transformation.

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Housed in a distinctive 19th-century water tower, the Chisinau City History Museum offers a journey through the capital's past, from its humble beginnings to its modern-day vibrancy. Explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that narrate the story of Chisinau and its people.

A brief summary to Chisinau City History Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions or events in the Panoramic Hall for an enhanced experience.
  • Allow at least two hours to fully explore the museum's collection and exhibits.
  • The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; plan your visit accordingly.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Ștefan cel Mare Central Park, walk north along Bănulescu-Bodoni Street. Turn left onto Alexei Mateevici Street; the museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10-15 minutes. No costs are associated with this route.

  • Public Transport

    From the city center, take any trolleybus or bus that stops near the intersection of Alexei Mateevici Street and Bănulescu-Bodoni Street. The museum is a short walk from the bus stop. A single ride on public transport costs 6 MDL.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Chisinau. Request a ride to Alexei Mateevici Street 60A. A short taxi ride from the city center will typically cost between 51.5 MDL and 70 MDL, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about Chisinau City History Museum

The Chisinau City History Museum, a monument of national significance, resides in the historic heart of the capital, within a unique architectural landmark: a late 19th-century water tower. Originally part of the city's aqueduct, the tower supplied water to the central area, showcasing the city's early infrastructure. Inside, the museum safeguards approximately 26,000 objects, with over a thousand on permanent display. These exhibits trace Chisinau's evolution from a small 15th-century village to a bustling metropolitan center. Artifacts range from archaeological finds to items from the Soviet era, illuminating pivotal moments such as the city's expansion in the 19th century and its strategic importance during both World Wars. The museum is housed in a hexagonal tower built in 1892, designed by architect A.I. Bernardazzi. The tower's walls, constructed from limestone, are 2 meters thick at the base, narrowing to 0.6 meters at the top. A metal spiral staircase, manufactured at the “Ștefan Sârbu-Serbov” Ironworks, is preserved within. The building suffered damage during earthquakes in 1977 and 1990 but was renovated and reopened in 2013. Today, the museum hosts a permanent exhibition, "History of the City," with exhibits dating from the 15th to 20th centuries, and a panoramic hall for temporary exhibitions, concerts, and other events. A visit here provides insights into the social, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped Chisinau. It's a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Moldovan people.

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