I was reading a lot about the psychiatric hospital of Chisinau, called Costiujeni. They say it used to be the most luxurious one in all the Russian Empire.
The whole complex was built by the most famous Chisinau architect, Alexandru Bernardazzi. But even this fact never attracts people who are interested in architecture because of 2 reasons: the complex is quite far from the Center and the atmosphere there has never been enjoyable.
When I first visited Costiujeni Psychiatric Complex, being curious, I was so fascinated. The dozens of old, almost-ruined hospital houses built along the large green alley created the spirit of a medieval mansion. It seems like the ambiance alone could easily cure patients. A bit further still, there are several huge Soviet blocks, but they are plain ordinary.
You can walk there for hours. The access is free for everybody, and all the times I've been there, I've never seen any patients.
Another interesting spot there are the old church and two amazing water towers, which luckily survived the bombing during WWII.
I like this spot, and if you are not a big fan of mainstream sights, this psychiatric complex is definitely for you!
Strada Costiujeni 3
MDL
free
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
"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
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
"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
"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...
by
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...
by
"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...
by
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...
by
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!
by
"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.
by
"Eminescu Square" in Chisinau is a place you can't miss as a tourist. The square itself is beautiful, old and full of real Moldavian souvenirs...
by
"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!
by
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!
by
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips