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Stephen the Great Central Park: Chișinău's Green Heart

Discover Chișinău's oldest park: a green oasis with historical monuments, tree-lined paths, and cultural significance in the heart of the city.

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Stephen the Great Central Park, the oldest park in Moldova, offers a serene escape in the heart of Chișinău. Named after Stephen the Great, a revered Moldovan ruler, the park features tree-lined alleys, monuments, and fountains, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Stephen the Great Central Park

  • Stefan cel Mare si Sfant Boulevard, Chișinău, Sectorul Buiucani, 2012, MD
  • +37322201707

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy under the trees in the park's tranquil atmosphere.
  • Check the park's event calendar for local cultural events and festivals.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the park covers a large area and is best explored on foot.
  • Take photos of the monument to Stephen the Great at the park entrance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Stephen the Great Central Park is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from most locations in downtown Chișinău. From the Nativity Cathedral, walk west along Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Boulevard for approximately 5 minutes. The park entrance, marked by the Stephen the Great Monument, will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Many bus and trolleybus lines serve the Stephen the Great Central Park area. Take any trolleybus or bus that stops along Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Boulevard. A single ticket costs 6 lei. Pay the conductor on board.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Chișinău. Use a ride-hailing app such as Yandex Taxi or Hip for a reliable service. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the park should cost approximately 52 lei. Ensure the driver resets the taximeter at the beginning of the journey.

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Discover more about Stephen the Great Central Park

Stephen the Great Central Park, also known as Grădina Publică „Ștefan cel Mare”, is Chișinău's main park and the oldest in Moldova, established in 1818. Spanning approximately 7 hectares (17 acres), it provides a green oasis amidst the bustling city. Originally designed by Russian military engineers, the park's layout, including its alleys and flower beds, was shaped by architect Bogdan Eitner. The park has been known by several names throughout its history, including Alexander Garden and Alexander Pushkin Park. Today, it's often called “The Park of the Lovers” due to its popularity as a meeting place. The park boasts around 50 species of trees, with some of the oldest mulberries and acacias dating back 130 to 180 years. Notable features include the Alley of Classics, established in 1958, which showcases statues and busts of prominent Romanian and Moldovan authors and social figures. The park also houses a monument to Alexander Pushkin, erected in 1885, making it the oldest surviving monument in Chișinău. The statue of Stephen the Great, sculpted by Alexandru Plămădeală, stands at the park's entrance, commemorating his role as a defender of Moldova. Throughout its history, the park has been a focal point for significant events, including meetings and occasional conflicts during the Moldovan nationalist movements of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, it remains a vibrant center for cultural events and festivals, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

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