Stephen the Great Monument: A Symbol of Moldovan Identity

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Honoring Moldova's greatest ruler, Prince Stephen the Great, in the heart of Chișinău's central park.

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Stephen the Great Monument

The Stephen the Great Monument, located in Chișinău's central park, honors Moldova's medieval hero, Prince Stephen the Great. Designed in 1923 by Alexandru Plămădeală, it was erected in 1927 and stands as a powerful symbol of national pride and resilience, having survived numerous relocations and political upheavals.

A brief summary to Stephen the Great Monument

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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Stephen the Great Monument.

Visit during sunset for beautiful lighting and photo opportunities.
Take a walk through Ștefan cel Mare Central Park to enjoy the monument's surroundings.
Check for local events or festivals happening in the park during your visit.

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Getting There

Walking

The Stephen the Great Monument is located in the center of Chișinău, within Ștefan cel Mare Central Park. From most central locations, such as the Great National Assembly Square, the monument is easily accessible by foot. Simply walk along Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt towards the park entrance. No costs are associated with walking.
Public Transport

Chișinău has an extensive public transportation network including trolleybuses, buses and minibuses. Many routes pass near Ștefan cel Mare Central Park. Check local transportation apps like Map.md or EasyWay for the most convenient route. A single ticket costs 6 MDL. Pay the conductor on board.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Chișinău. Use a ride-hailing app like Yandex Taxi or call a local taxi service. A short taxi ride from the Chișinău city center to the Stephen the Great Monument typically costs between 51.5 MDL. Ensure the driver resets the taximeter before starting the journey.

Discover more about Stephen the Great Monument

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.