History
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In the 14th century the present territory of Moldova was part of the Principality of Moldavia. Particularly well known is Prince Stefan the Great. He fought successfully against attackers of the Ottoman Empire and Poland. The subsequent rulers of Moldova were not that successful.
In the 16th century Moldova ultimately fell under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, whereupon a permanent rule change followed in the next centuries.
1812 it was part of Russia and in 1918 the country became part of the Kingdom of Romania. From 1940 Moldova belonged to the Soviet Union. After its collapse the republic of Moldova declared its independence in 1991.
Worth Knowing
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Republic of Moldova is abstractly shaped like a cluster of grapes and has obtained the title of “country with open doors in the paradise of wine”. Wine production is the basic occupation of Moldavians.
In 2005, the cellars Mileștii Mici, which extend for 200 km, was registered in the Guinness World Records as the biggest wine collection in the world with nearly 2 million bottles.
On the 1st of March the Mărțișor is given to relatives and friends as a small gift. It consists of a red and white cord with a pendant and is meant to symbolize the spring.
Facts & Figures
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Capital Chișinău
Language Romanian
Currency Leu
Inhabitants 3,56 Million
Area 33 843 km²
Specialities Corn, sheep's milk cheese
Geography Hills and valleys
Famous Personalities
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Maria Bieşu In 1967 in Tokyo she won honorary ‘Gold Cup’ prize and also the title ‘Best Cio-Cio-San in the World’
Eugen Doga The most famous composer, being considered a genius. One from the best composers of the XX century.