Church of Transfiguration Chisinau
Hell in Chisinau
When I have city tours and I show to my guests Stefan cel Mare Boulevard, the main street of Chisinau, I always lead them to the Church of Transfiguration. I definitely know that not everybody believes in God and churches can provoke different feelings, but I want to show them not the religious side, but something very interesting.
In soviet times, this cathedral was transformed into the Planetarium, a research center for analyzing the stars' position on the sky. With Perestroika, the building was given back to the church authorities and the reconstruction was made within several years.
The church inside looks like any other church in Eastern Europe, but the most unique painting is right above your head when you enter the building. 5 years ago, permission was given to a young artist to illustrate heaven & hell. Nothing wrong about heaven, but the hell scenes look so amazing, so real, as if they were taken from some computer game or scary movie.
The size of the picture is 5 by 7 meters and I still can't understand how the very conservative orthodox church of Moldova gave permission to the artist to paint such a modern depiction of the Bible.
Not so many people go inside this church, but if you have the chance, find some time and go inside. Entrance is free. Take your time to see every part of this painting. You can also take pictures if mass isn't going on.
Really great spot!
About this spot
Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt 164a
- 09:00 - 17:00 daily
MDL
no-price
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Chisinau
Vegan Phi Restaurant
Vegan paradise in Chișinău
"Vegan Phi Restaurant" in Chisinau is a vegan restaurant with amazing main dishes, even if you're not vegan! Try the cauliflower steak...
by
Mihai
Avram
Smokehouse BBQ-Beer-Community
Tex-Mex food & beer
"Smokehouse" in Chisinau is a community place with lots of locals and internationals. It's a beer haven with pub quizes on Tuesdays and great food!
by
Mihai
Avram
Cehov Square
Community park
"Cehov Square" is a green, renovated square in Chisinau in front of the theater. It was the first crowdfunding project of its kind. It's so relaxing!
by
Mihai
Avram
Marlene Bar
The hidden summer terrace
"Marlene Bar" in Chisinau might not even have the best cocktails in town (although I like them), but the atmosphere of this European-style bar is worth it!
by
Mihai
Avram
Cărturești Books
Best place for book lovers
"Cărturești Books" in Chisinau has everything from books, posters, board games, magnets... I esp. like the reading area where you can sit with a book.
by
Mihai
Avram
Fuior Restaurant
Moldovan kitchen fusion
"Fuior Restaurant" in Chișinău is all about the package. They bring you a Michelin-Star restaurant experience to Moldovan flavors. Try the black dumplings!
by
Mihai
Avram
Madam Wong Restaurant
Best Asian in town
"Madam Wong Restaurant" in Chișinău makes the best Asian food in town, easily! My favorites include the Tom Yum, the Spinach Soup & the Duck Spring Roll...
by
Mihai
Avram
Wine Shop Pușkin St.
Get your wine here!
If there's one place you need to check into after you arrive at Chișinău, it's "Wine Shop Pușkin St." Expect to find great prices for simply amazing wines!
by
Mihai
Avram
Yoga Surya
Yoga with the locals
"Yoga Surya" in Chisinau is run by Igor. He speaks Romanian and a little English. He's very helpful, friendly and the prices are very reasonable!
by
Mihai
Avram
Valea Morilor Park
Our best recreation area
"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Istanbul Bazaar
Turkish market
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Buiucani District
My part of town
"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Heading to Chisinau?
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Chisinau?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Chisinau
Get to know our other Spotters from Chisinau
As featured on:
