Nicolai Chirnev

Chisinau

Spotter since 2019

About me

About me
Hey everyone!
A Big Hello from Moldova!
I have always been passionate about the history and the culture of my country and as a result - I became a tour guide!

They say the best job is the one you love, so if you ever decide to visit Moldova or Chisinau, just let me know. I can be your personal guide.
Meanwhile, read about my favorite spots in Chisinau.

Why Chisinau
Perhaps it would be weird to point that out, but I love Chisinau because I enjoy ruins and old structures. Unfortunately, the deep economic crisis started by the collapse of the Soviet Union led to a big number of abandoned buildings: gorgeous estates from the time of the Russian Empire are now ruined.
Small houses of clay from the Romanian period also symbolize deep poverty, even in the capital. Soviet buildings, so progressive and beautiful by '70s & '80s standards are now just grey pieces of concrete, because they were never maintained for the last 30 years.

And this is what I love about Chisinau. The real Chisinau, the authentic one. Its tragedy affects me strongly.

Of course, things are slowly changing. Buildings are being repaired, rebuilt or even removed. But after the renovation, they start to look like every other building in the world.

Is that good? Is that bad? You decide.

Where else can you find me online?

My spots (21)

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!

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Relaxing

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

Istanbul Bazaar

Turkish market

"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!

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Coffee & tea
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Shopping

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

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...

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Art & culture

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

Church of Transfiguration

Hell in Chisinau

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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Art & culture

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

Chisinau Hotel

Soviet estate

"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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Art & culture

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

Train Station

Stalinist square

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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Art & culture

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

MoldExpo

Come to Lenin

"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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Art & culture

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

La Izvor

City lake

"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...

002-building
Art & culture
017-plant-1
Relaxing

By

Nicolai

Chirnev

Feb 7, 2025

Where to find me

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