Built in the 1980s, Chisinau’s Circus is familiar to any citizen, because all of us born in the 70s-80s enjoyed its wonderful performances in a great arena. But younger ones have been less lucky, because the Circus has been closed because of a lack of funds and financing, and now it is just an architectural masterpiece slowly falling to ruin.
When talking about architecture, it is really a remarkable example of the Soviet modernist style, and unlike the majority of buildings from that era, it was built under a unique project. It became a symbol of a fast-growing modern capital city, and rightly so. And it is still worth seeing.
A few years ago, despite the government’s indifference and corruption, enthusiasts and circus artists opened a second, smaller arena used for training and for the audience and now children and adults can again enjoy the circus art.
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"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!
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"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
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"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...
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The "Church of Transfiguration" in Chisinau is unique in that its depiction of hell is very modern; I can hardly believe they allowed it to be painted...
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"Chisinau Hotel" really has changed very little from soviet times. You don't have to stay, just ask to have a look around the rooms...
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Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
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"MoldExpo" in Chisinau isn't just a green space that hosts exhibitions -- the statue of Lenin that used to stand in front of the government is here now.
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"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
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"Chisinau Flea Market" is full of thousands of old soviet stuff. By buying things here, you help out the poor old people, so I encourage to get something!
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Chisinau's underground passages used to be scary, dark, smelly and full of tasteless graffiti. Now things have changed -- you definitely have to see them!
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We have plenty of Soviet mosaics in Chisinau that mean different things to different people. But this one on Negruzzi street has its own beautiful story!
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"Salat" is a family restaurant in Chisinau. Most of the time, I come here for lunch. They have bistro tables & a nice big buffet, and so are pretty cheap!
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87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters