Valea Morilor Park: Chișinău's Green Oasis

Valea Morilor Park, located in the Buiucani sector of Chișinău, is a sprawling 114-hectare green space offering a refreshing escape from the urban bustle. Established in 1950 at the initiative of Leonid Brezhnev, it was initially named 'Central Park of Culture and Rest of the Leninist Komsomol'. The park's current name, meaning 'Valley of the Mills,' comes from the artificial lake at its heart, a nod to the watermills that once dotted the area.The park is designed around Valea Morilor Lake, which spans 34 hectares. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including strolling or cycling along the scenic 2.5-kilometer path that encircles the lake. Water activities such as rowing and paddle boating are also popular. In the summer, the sandy beach on the north side of the lake attracts sunbathers and swimmers. During winter, the lake sometimes transforms into an urban ice rink.Other attractions within the park include the Summer Theater (also known as the Green Theater), the daytime cinema, and the children's town 'Andrieș'. The Summer Theater, built in 1957, is the largest open-air theater in Europe, with a seating capacity of 6,700. The Cascades Staircase, consisting of 218 steps, is another notable feature, longer than the famous Potemkin Staircase in Odessa. The park also features playgrounds, sports fields, and open spaces perfect for picnics and cultural events.Valea Morilor Park is not only a place for recreation but also a natural haven, home to diverse tree species and various fish and ducks in the lake. The park has undergone restoration work, including the repair of the Cascades Staircase and rotunda, ensuring its preservation for future generations.