10 Things to Do in The Old Town of Ungheni, Moldova
Ungheni, the capital of Moldova, is home to a vibrant and bustling Old Town. It's a great place to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and take in the sights and sounds of a traditional Moldovan city. From churches and monasteries to street markets and local cuisine, there is plenty to keep visitors occupied in Ungheni's Old Town. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Ungheni's Old Town.
1. Visit the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Old Town. This stunning Orthodox church was built in the late 16th century and is the oldest church in Ungheni. The church features a stunning interior with intricately painted walls and ceilings. Visitors can also explore the church's many artifacts, including ancient icons and paintings.
2. Explore the Old Town Market
The Old Town Market is a great place to experience the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. Here, you can find everything from traditional Moldovan foods and handicrafts to local artwork and souvenirs. The market is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine and chat with friendly locals.
3. Take a Stroll Along the River Prut
The River Prut is the main river that runs through Ungheni and is a great spot for a relaxing stroll. The riverbank is lined with beautiful parks and gardens, perfect for a peaceful picnic or a leisurely walk. The river is also home to some stunning wildlife, including ducks, swans, and other birds.
4. Visit the Monastery of St. Nicholas
The Monastery of St. Nicholas is one of the oldest monasteries in all of Moldova. This stunning monastery was built in the 15th century and is a great place to explore the country's rich religious history. The monastery features a beautiful garden and a stunning interior, with intricately painted walls and ceilings.
5. Explore the City Walls
Ungheni's Old Town is surrounded by ancient city walls, which date back to the 15th century. The walls are a great spot to explore the city's history and take in stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The walls are also home to some fascinating artwork, including a number of statues and murals.
6. Visit the National Museum of History and Ethnography
The National Museum of History and Ethnography is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Moldova. The museum features a large collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, traditional costumes, and historic documents. Visitors can also explore the museum's many interactive exhibits, which provide an insight into the country's rich heritage.
7. Sample Some Local Cuisine
Ungheni's Old Town is home to some fantastic restaurants, serving up traditional Moldovan cuisine. Here, you can sample some of the country's most famous dishes, such as mamaliga (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and placinte (savory pies). The Old Town is also home to some great cafes and bars, perfect for a relaxing evening.
8. Visit the Cathedral of St. Stephen
The Cathedral of St. Stephen is one of the most impressive churches in the Old Town. This stunning cathedral was built in the 16th century and features a stunning interior, with intricate frescoes and sculptures. Visitors can also explore the cathedral's many artifacts, including ancient icons and paintings.
9. Take a Tour of the Old Town
A guided tour of the Old Town is a great way to explore the city's rich cultural heritage. Tours usually include visits to some of the city's most famous landmarks, such as the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Cathedral of St. Stephen. Tours also provide an insight into the city's history and culture, with knowledgeable guides providing interesting facts and stories.
10. Shop for Souvenirs at the Local Markets
Ungheni's Old Town is home to some great local markets, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Here, you can find everything from traditional Moldovan handicrafts and artwork to local food and drinks. The markets are also a great place to chat with friendly locals and sample some of the country's famous dishes.
Ungheni's Old Town is a great place to explore Moldova's rich cultural heritage. From churches and monasteries to street markets and local cuisine, there is plenty to keep visitors occupied. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll along the River Prut or a guided tour of the city's landmarks, there are plenty of things to do in Ungheni's Old Town.