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Suta de Movile: Moldova's Mysterious Mounds

Explore Moldova's geological wonder: Suta de Movile, where thousands of mysterious mounds dot the landscape near the Prut River.

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Suta de Movile, meaning 'Hundred Hills,' is a unique landscape in Moldova featuring over 3,500 mounds stretching across the Prut River valley. These geological oddities, resembling ancient burial mounds, offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's past and present natural beauty.

A brief summary to Suta de Movile

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Local tips

  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the landmark.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the scenic surroundings.
  • Check for local events or festivals that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Suta de Movile via public transport, take a minibus or bus from Chișinău's Central Bus Station to Criuleni. Buses depart approximately every 30 minutes, and the journey takes about 40 minutes. From Criuleni, take a taxi or local transport towards the Nistru River area. A taxi from Criuleni to Suta de Movile will cost approximately 100-150 MDL; negotiate the fare beforehand.

  • Car

    If driving from Chișinău, head east on the E581 highway towards Criuleni, roughly 30 km away. Follow signs for Criuleni, then take the road towards the Nistru River, following signs for Suta de Movile. The destination is located at approximately 47.7751° N latitude and 27.2802° E longitude; using a GPS or mapping app is recommended. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available near the site. Fuel costs should be considered.

  • Taxi

    From Rîșcani, a taxi can be taken to Suta de Movile. It is advisable to negotiate the price before the trip. Taxi fares in Moldova generally start at 25-30 MDL, with an additional 4-6 MDL per kilometer. A ride-sharing app such as Yandex Go can also be used.

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Discover more about Suta de Movile

Suta de Movile, Romanian for 'Hundred Hills,' is a remarkable protected area in Moldova's Rîșcani district, near the villages of Braniște and Cobani. Despite the name, this unique landscape actually features over 3,500 mounds scattered across the Prut River valley. These rolling hills, ranging from 1.5 to 30 meters in height, create a captivating and unusual sight, resembling the burial mounds of ancient Scythian and Sarmatian tribes. Legends surround the origin of Suta de Movile, with some believing they were formed as burial mounds for fallen heroes after great battles between nomadic tribes. The largest mound, Movila Țiganului, stands nearly 30 meters tall and was thought to be the final resting place of a Scythian chieftain. However, the true story lies in geology. Around 20 million years ago, the territory of Moldova was covered by the Sarmatian Sea. The mounds are composed of sedimentary rock formed from ancient landslides and the tides that once flowed over the region. Today, Suta de Movile offers visitors a chance to experience Moldova's natural beauty and delve into its rich history. The area provides stunning views, especially from the highest mounds, and is home to diverse flora and fauna. It's a place where the echoes of ancient seas and nomadic legends blend, creating a truly unique and memorable destination.

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