Moldova is home to the world's largest wine cellar
Fact 1: Milesiești Cricova in Moldova is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the largest wine cellar in the world. It covers a staggering area of 15 million square feet and is encased within limestone excavations that go up to 100 meters underground. The wine cellar includes a network of tunnels that could reach a length of 120 kilometers if laid in a straight line!
The National Flag of Moldova
Fact 2: The Moldovan flag, adopted in 1990 when the country was freeing itself from Soviet rule, is interesting because it has an emblem that includes a shield, olive branch, scepter, and an eagle. This national emblem is only found on the reverse side of the flag, so the front and back are not identical.
Moldova is One of the Least Visited Countries
Fact 3: Although it boasts of rich culture, history, and natural beauty, Moldova happens to be one of the least visited countries in the world. This gives travelers a unique opportunity to explore a country that is free from tourist crowds.
Independence Day Is Celebrated Twice A Year
Fact 4: The nation of Moldova enjoys the celebration of independence twice a year. They celebrate it first on August 27, which is their official Independence Day from the Soviet Union and then again on December 2, which is National Day.
A Moldovan Asteroid
Fact 5: Moldova has an asteroid named after it! Discovered in 1977, the asteroid 3571 Florentina was renamed 3571 Florenția Moldova in 1991 to honor the country's independence.
Origin of the Moldovan Language
Fact 6: The official language of Moldova is Romanian. However, due to the heavy influence of the Soviet Union, Moldovan was considered a separate language in the country for many years.
Moldova Houses Europe's Oldest Monastery
Fact 7: Orheiul Vechi is a historic and archaeological complex that includes the remains of different civilizations including the ancient city of Orhei. It resides on a rugged cliff that houses Europe's oldest monastery dating back to the 13th century.
Unique National Dance
Fact 8: Moldova has a unique national dance known as 'Hora'. This circular dance brings together people of different ages and social statuses, forming a circle, symbolizing unity and continuity.
Rural Wi-Fi in Moldova
Fact 9: Moldova was one of the first countries in the world to provide free Wi-Fi in public spaces and rural areas, all with the goal of improving digital literacy and boosting the country’s economy.
World's Largest Wine Collection
Fact 10: Moldova hosts the world's largest wine collection in its Milestii Mici wine cellar. The collection boasts over 1.5 million bottles!
Giant Annual Wine Festival
Fact 11: An annual Wine Festival takes place during the first weekend of October in Moldova, showcasing the country’s rich winemaking tradition.
Youngest Average Age in Europe
Fact 12: With an average age of 36.8 years, Moldova has the youngest population in Europe.
The Capital’s Name
Fact 13: The capital city, Chișinău, in Romanian translates to "New Fountain." It was named after a hunting prince that discovered a spring and built a city around it.
Mammoth Bones Discovery
Fact 14: In 1966, during water system construction works, workers unearthed a large number of mammoth bones in Chișinău.
Birthplace of the "Tractor"
Fact 15: The word "tractor" was first recorded in the modern sense in Moldova in 1896.
The Unrecognized Republic
Fact 16: In the eastern part of Moldova is the self-proclaimed territory known as Transnistria. Even though it is not recognized by the United Nations, it has its own government, military, flag, and currency.
'The Night of the Gypsies' Festival
Fact 17: Every summer, Moldova hosts a vibrant annual festival known as "The Night of the Gypsies". During the festival, local gypsy music fills the air, making it a memorable experience for locals and tourists alike.
Influence of Different Cultures
Fact 18: Moldova's history is a rich tapestry of influences from different cultures. Moldovans are largely a mixture of Romanians, Ukrainians, Gagauz, Bulgarians, and Russians, which has significantly influenced their traditions, language, and cuisine.
Home to a Wide Variety of Wildlife
Fact 19: Moldova is home to over 5,300 species of wildlife, including 3,648 species of vascular plants, 256 species of mosses, 664 species of mushrooms, 12,000 species of invertebrate animals and 661 species of vertebrate animals.
Moldova's Natural Wealth
Fact 20: Moldova is known for its arable land. Almost 75% of the country is covered in fertile black soil, making agriculture one of the country’s most important economic sectors.