Moldova Chisinau History: A Look at the Past of the Capital City
Moldova Chisinau is the capital and largest city of Moldova, a former Soviet Republic located in Eastern Europe. The city has a long and fascinating history that is interwoven with the history of the region. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to its current status as a modern and vibrant metropolis, Chisinau has seen many changes over the centuries. Here is a look at the history of Moldova Chisinau.
The earliest known settlement in the area that is now Moldova Chisinau was founded in the 14th century by the Moldavian Prince Dragoș, who named it Cetatea Albă (White Fortress). This settlement was destroyed by the Ottoman Empire in 1467. After this, the city was rebuilt and renamed Chisinau, which means "on the river" in Romanian.
In the 16th century, Chisinau was part of the Principality of Moldavia, which was a vassal state of the Ottoman Empire. During this period, the city was a major trading center and an important political center. In 1711, the city was conquered by the Russian Empire and became part of the Russian Empire until the end of World War I.
In 1918, after the collapse of the Russian Empire, Moldova declared independence and Chisinau became the capital of the newly formed Republic of Moldova. During the interwar period, the city grew and developed, becoming a major economic and cultural center of the region.
In 1940, Moldova was annexed by the Soviet Union and Chisinau became the capital of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic. During this period, the city was heavily industrialized and modernized. In 1991, Moldova declared independence from the Soviet Union and Chisinau became the capital of the newly independent Republic of Moldova.
Today, Moldova Chisinau is a modern and vibrant city with a population of around 700,000 people. The city is home to many cultural and historical landmarks, including the National Museum of History, the National Museum of Ethnography, and the National Museum of Fine Arts. The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife and is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.