The Triumphal Arch Travel Guide

The Triumphal Arch, also known as the Arcul de Triumf in Romanian, is a monument in central Chișinău, Moldova, next to the Nativity Cathedral. The arch was built in 1840 by architect Luka Zauschevic to commemorate the Russian Empire's victory over the Ottoman Empire in the Russo-Turkish War.The arch's design was inspired by Roman triumphal arches. It stands 13 meters tall and is made of white stone, with a square shape and four openings. The monument's capitals are carved in the Corinthian style, and the upper level is decorated in a classical style. For a time, the arch even featured a clock, first installed in 1842, though the original mechanism required replacement.Interestingly, the arch was initially intended to house a large bell cast for the Nativity Cathedral. However, the bell was too large for the cathedral's belfry, leading to the construction of the arch to house the 6.4-ton bell. Today, the Triumphal Arch is a symbol of Chișinău and a reminder of the city's rich history.