Stephen the Great Monument Travel Guide

The Stephen the Great Monument, a prominent landmark in Chișinău, stands as a tribute to Stephen III of Moldavia, also known as Stephen the Great, who ruled from 1457 to 1504. He is celebrated for his staunch resistance against foreign invaders and his efforts to consolidate the principality. The monument is located at the main entrance of Ștefan cel Mare Central Park.Designed by sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală in 1923, the monument was erected in 1927, replacing a monument to Alexander II of Russia. The statue is made of bronze from cannons captured from the Ottomans during the Romanian War of Independence. The monument has been moved several times throughout its history, including being relocated to Vaslui, Romania, during the Soviet occupation of Bessarabia in 1940. It was eventually restored to its original location in 1989.The monument portrays Stephen the Great holding a sword, symbolizing his role as a defender of Moldova. Flower-laying ceremonies are regularly held at the monument's pedestal on national holidays and during official visits. The Stephen the Great Monument remains one of the top attractions for tourists visiting Chișinău.