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Underground Chisinau
Beneath Chisinau lies a network of catacombs—an extensive system of underground tunnels, some of Soviet origin and others from earlier periods. Officially, most of the tunnels are closed—but some tour companies in Chisinau offer “underground tours” for the few who are interested.
The tunnels were used as shelters and underground passages—their exact length and layout have not been fully explored. The atmosphere is downright eerie, dark, and mysterious. Perfect for adventure seekers.
How to get there: through Chisinau tour companies offering “underground tours”—search on Google or contact the tourism office at visit.chisinau.md.
Mileștii Mici—an underground city where people drive cars
This is an officially recognized unusual place—listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s largest wine cellar. But “cellar” isn’t quite the right word. It’s an underground city: over 200 km of tunnels with named streets where people actually drive cars among millions of bottles of wine. The Moldovan government and the EU have even funded the restoration of the “roads” in the underground city.
The tour is a must-see attraction. Visitors are seated in a minibus and driven through the tunnels. Tasting wine underground, several meters below the surface, is a unique experience.
Address: 20 km from Chisinau (Mileshti Mici village)
Advance reservations are required.
Price: starting at 150 MDL per person.
Soviet Heritage: Architecture That Surprises
The Government Building and the Square
The massive Stalinist building, designed in the “totalitarian classicism” style, looks as if it were transported straight from 1950s Moscow. The square in front of it is one of the largest in Eastern Europe. For those who love Soviet monumental architecture, it’s an impressive spot for photos.
The “Kodru” Hotel
The Brutalist tower in the center is a characteristic example of Soviet hotel architecture. It makes for a good backdrop for architectural photos.
Organ with 7,000 Pipes
The Organ Hall in Chisinau (a former Catholic church) houses an organ with more than 7,000 pipes—one of the largest in the region. An organ concert here offers both aesthetic appeal and an extraordinary acoustic experience in a space where the sound of the pipes literally envelops the body.
Iconic and Unexpected Places
The Old Jewish Cemetery
Chisinau was home to one of Moldova’s largest Jewish communities. The Old Jewish Cemetery has been preserved and is one of the most atmospheric and oldest in the region. Tombstones inscribed in Hebrew and Yiddish bear witness to a community that has vanished. It is a place for contemplation and reflection, not for a tourist “photo op.”
Memorial Park (Parcul Memorial)
A small park with monuments and memorials dedicated to the victims of repression and those who perished in World War II. An unusual place for quiet reflection on Moldovan and Soviet history.
Belly Garden (Butterfly Park)
Tropical butterflies flying around you in an enclosed space. It might sound frivolous—but the experience is incredible. There are also turtles, tropical plants, and a small aquarium. One of Chisinau’s best “quirky” attractions for all ages.
Price: 80–100 MDL
Chisinau’s Sculptures
Unusual sculptures and art installations are scattered throughout the city—from Soviet monuments to contemporary street art. It’s a real urban safari for street art lovers: look for murals in the area around Pushkin Street and in the city center.
The Unique Natural Landscape Around Chișinău
Orheiul Vechi — a monastery carved into the rocks
50 km from Chisinau. An Orthodox monastery carved directly into the limestone cliffs above the Reut River. Monks have lived here for several hundred years. The view from here is one of the most impressive in Moldova: the meandering river, the hills, and the silence. This site combines botanical, spiritual, and tourist attractions.
Chisinau’s 23 Lakes
Chisinau, despite being a landlocked city, has more than 23 urban lakes—most of them hidden behind residential neighborhoods. Finding them and discovering a quiet spot where locals sit with their fishing rods is a little local adventure.
FAQ
Where can I find Soviet murals and street art in Chisinau?
Pushkin Street and the surrounding neighborhoods, as well as Izmail Street and some streets in Buiucani. Look along and “inside” the neighborhoods—there are often hidden courtyards with art there.
Is it possible to explore Chisinau’s underground tunnels?
Officially, only on a guided tour. Entering on your own is dangerous and prohibited.
Are there ghosts or “dark tourism” attractions in Chisinau?
The old Jewish cemetery and some abandoned Soviet sites attract fans of “dark tourism.”
Is the underground city of Milesti Mici unique?
Yes—it’s the only one of its kind in the world. Over 200 km of underground streets with wine and car traffic—a Guinness World Record.