Moldova

Moldova! A small, landlocked country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania and Ukraine. Here are some interesting facts about Moldova:

Geography and Climate

• Moldova is the second-least visited country in Europe, with only around 3 million tourists per year.
• It has a total area of 13,067 square miles (33,846 km²), making it slightly smaller than the state of Maryland in the United States.
• The capital city is Chișinău (also known as Kishinev).
• The country has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters.

History

• Moldova declared independence from the Soviet Union on August 27, 1991.
• Prior to that, it was part of the Soviet Union as the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic.
• The country has a rich history dating back to the ancient times, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 10,000 BC.
• In the Middle Ages, Moldova was a principality that was part of the Kingdom of Hungary and later the Principality of Moldavia.

Culture

• The official language is Romanian, but Russian and Gagauz (a Turkic language) are also widely spoken.
• The country has a unique blend of Eastern European and Balkan cultures.
• Wine production is an important part of Moldovan culture, with many wine cellars and vineyards throughout the country.

Economy

• Moldova’s economy is primarily agricultural, with wheat, grapes, and soybeans being major crops.
• The country is also known for its wine production, with over 100 wineries and a long tradition of winemaking.
• Remittances from Moldovans working abroad play a significant role in the country’s economy.

Interesting Facts

• Moldova is home to the world’s largest wine cellar, Cricova Winery, which has over 1.5 million hectoliters of wine stored underground.
• The country has a high level of internet penetration, with over 70% of the population having internet access.
• Moldova has a unique postal system, where you can send letters to each other through a network of underground tunnels.

Fun Activities

• Visit the capital city Chișinău and explore its historic center, including the Cathedral Park and the Nativity Cathedral.
• Take a wine tour at one of the many wineries or vineyards in the country.
• Hike in the Codru Valley National Park or explore the scenic countryside by bike.

Overall, Moldova is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.