Stephen the Great Central Park
Chisinau Region
Stephen the Great Central Park is the main and oldest park in Chișinău, Moldova, covering approximately 7 hectares. Established in 1818 by Russian military engineers, it boasts a rich collection of about 50 tree species, including mulberries and acacias aged between 130 and 180 years. The park is renowned for its cultural significance, housing the Alley of Classics which honors prominent Romanian and Moldovan literary figures with statues and busts. Notable monuments include the statue of Pushkin, erected in 1885, and the statue of Stephen the Great at the park's entrance, designed by Alexandru Plămădeală in 1928. Over time, the park has evolved into a popular meeting place, especially for couples, earning the nickname 'The Park of the Lovers.' It features fountains, playgrounds, and historically significant structures like the first theater site and a communal WWII Soviet soldiers' grave. The Avenue of the Classics and the Alley of Friendship, where distinguished guests planted trees, add to its cultural and historical depth. Modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi enhance visitor experience while preserving its historical charm.
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Tip: Visit during spring or early summer to enjoy the lush greenery and blooming flowers. Early mornings or late afternoons provide a peaceful atmosphere ideal for romantic walks. Consider purchasing tickets for nearby attractions in advance, though the park itself is publicly accessible. Look out for cultural events and exhibitions often held along the Avenue of the Classics. Free Wi-Fi is available for visitors.
Interesting facts
- •The park is nicknamed 'The Park of the Lovers' due to its popularity among couples.
- •Chișinău was the second city after Moscow to erect a monument to Pushkin in 1885.
- •The cast-iron fence surrounding the park was manufactured in Odessa and weighs approximately 5,400 kilograms.
- •The Avenue of the Classics features statues and busts of over twenty notable Romanian and Moldovan literary and social figures.
- •Prominent visitors like Yuri Gagarin and Mikhail Gorbachev planted trees in the Alley of Friendship within the park.
History
The park was laid out in 1818 during the reign of Alexander I by Russian military engineers.
In 1863, the original fence was replaced by a cast-iron one designed by Alexander Bernardazzi.
The Pushkin statue, installed in 1885, is the oldest surviving monument in Chișinău.
The Stephen the Great statue was added in 1928 and later became a focal point of political demonstrations in the late 20th century.
Post WWII developments included relocating the Pushkin monument and adding new cultural features such as the Avenue of the Classics in 1958 and the Alley of Friendship in the Soviet era.
Place Guide
Avenue of the Classics1958
A prominent pathway lined with statues and busts of renowned Romanian and Moldovan authors and social figures, including Mihai Eminescu and Dimitrie Cantemir. The bronze busts stand on red granite bases, and the avenue is guarded by marble lions at its entrance.
Stephen the Great Statue1928
A monumental statue at the park's entrance commemorating the Moldavian ruler Stephen the Great, designed by sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală and erected in 1928. It has been a significant cultural and political symbol in Moldova.
Pushkin Monument1885
Originally erected in 1885 to honor the Russian poet Alexander Pushkin, who frequented the park in the 1820s. The statue was the oldest monument in Chișinău but was later relocated to the Avenue of the Classics.
Central Fountain
The main fountain located at the center of the park where all the paths and alleys converge, serving as a scenic and social focal point for visitors.
Contact
Phone: 022 201 707
