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Stephen the Great Monument: A Symbol of Moldovan Identity
A tribute to Moldova's greatest ruler, Prince Stephen the Great, in the heart of Chișinău's central park.
The Stephen the Great Monument, located in Chișinău's central park, honors Moldova's medieval hero, Prince Stephen the Great, who defended the country against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. The monument is a focal point for national celebrations and a reminder of Moldovan history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Stephen the Great Monument
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt în Parcul Ștefan cel Mare, Chișinău, Sectorul Buiucani, 2012, MD
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Getting There
Walking
From the Central Market (Piața Centrală), head east on Strada 31 August 1989. Continue until you reach Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt, then turn left. Walk for about 1km; the monument is located in Ștefan cel Mare Park. No costs are involved.
Public Transport
Take a trolleybus or bus to a stop near Ștefan cel Mare Central Park. Many routes pass near the park. A single ticket costs 6 MDL. Check local apps like Moovit or Google Maps for the most accurate routes and schedules.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Chișinău. A short taxi ride to the Stephen the Great Monument from the city center will typically cost between 30 to 52 MDL, depending on the distance and taxi company. Taxi apps like Yandex Taxi or local services are recommended.
Local tips
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Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
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Take a walk around Ștefan cel Mare Central Park to enjoy the gardens and nearby attractions.
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Check out the Alley of Classics, located in the same park, featuring busts of prominent Romanian writers.
Discover more about Stephen the Great Monument
The Stephen the Great Monument, a prominent landmark in Chișinău, stands as a tribute to Stephen the Great (Ștefan cel Mare), a revered figure in Moldovan history. Located in the heart of the city, in Ștefan cel Mare Central Park, the monument commemorates the prince's 470th anniversary of victory in the Battle of Vaslui. He ruled Moldova from 1457 to 1504 and is celebrated for his military prowess and efforts to preserve Moldovan autonomy.The monument, designed by sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală in 1923, was erected in 1927 and opened in 1928. The bronze statue, cast in Bucharest, replaced a monument to Alexander II of Russia. Stephen is depicted in regal attire, holding a sword, symbolizing his role as a defender of the principality.The monument has a storied past, having been moved several times throughout the 20th century. In 1940, before Soviet occupation, it was moved to Vaslui, Romania. It returned to Chișinău in 1942, only to be taken back to Romania in 1944. Finally, in 1989, it was restored to its original location. Today, the Stephen the Great Monument remains a site for public gatherings, national holiday celebrations, and official ceremonies, and a key tourist attraction.
A brief summary to Stephen the Great Monument
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