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Stephen the Great Central Park: Chișinău's Green Heart

Discover Chișinău's oldest park: a green oasis with tree-lined paths, historical monuments, and serene fountains in the heart of the city.

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Stephen the Great Central Park, the oldest park in Moldova, offers a tranquil escape in the heart of Chișinău. Named after Stephen the Great, it features tree-lined paths, monuments, and fountains, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Stephen the Great Central Park

  • Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Boulevard, Chișinău, Sectorul Buiucani, 2012, MD
  • +37322201707

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy under the trees and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
  • Check the park's event calendar for local cultural events and festivals during your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park covers a large area and is best explored on foot.
  • Don't forget to take photos of the stunning monument to Stefan Cel Mare for great memories.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Chișinău City Hall, walk east along Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Boulevard. The park will be on your right, a short walk from the Great National Assembly Square. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From the Central Bus Station, take any trolleybus or bus heading towards Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Boulevard. The park is located along the boulevard, and several stops are nearby. The cost is 6 MDL per ride.

  • Taxi

    From Chișinău International Airport, a taxi ride to Stephen the Great Central Park will take approximately 25 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the airport. Expect to pay around 80 MDL.

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Discover more about Stephen the Great Central Park

Stephen the Great Central Park (Grădina Publică „Ștefan cel Mare”) is the main park in central Chișinău, Moldova, established in 1818. As the oldest park in the country, it spans approximately 7 hectares (17 acres) and provides a green oasis amidst the bustling city. Originally laid out by Russian military engineers, the park has evolved over the centuries, becoming a beloved landmark and a popular meeting spot, earning the nickname "The Park of the Lovers". The park boasts a rich history, with significant modifications made under architect Bogdan Eitner, who designed the present-day alleys and oversaw the planting of hundreds of acacias, limes, and flower beds. Initially enclosed by a wicker fence, it was later surrounded by a sturdy cast-iron fence in 1863, manufactured in Odessa. Today, the park features around 50 species of trees, some of which are between 130 and 180 years old. Notable features include the Alley of Classics, opened in 1958, which showcases statues and busts of Romanian and Moldovan authors and social figures. The park also houses four fountains, with the main fountain located at the center, where all paths converge. The monument to Stephen the Great, erected in 1928, stands at the park's entrance, commemorating the 470th anniversary of his victory in the Battle of Vaslui. A statue of Pushkin, dating back to 1885, is the oldest surviving monument in the city. Throughout its history, the park has been a focal point for significant events, including meetings and clashes between Moldova's Nationalists and pro-Soviet supporters in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, it remains a vibrant hub of community activity, hosting various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

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