National Museum of Fine Arts, Chisinau

One site that is invariably present on the list of every visitor to Chisinau is the National Museum of Fine Arts – not just because of it being the home of some of the best works of art in the region, but also because it stands as a remarkable architectural monument.

Built in the mid 19th century by famous Russian architect Alexander Bernardazzi, this historic structure, unlike many others in Chisinau, has successfully survived a number of natural and human attempts to destroy it. This is partially the reason why it remains one of the most treasured local monuments and a source of many tales from the past. Over the years it has housed a school, gymnasium, hospital and warehouse, prior to becoming the home of fine arts collections.

The museum was founded in 1939 by famous local sculptor, Alexandru Plămădeală, in partnership with Auguste Baillayre, the French painter who later became the first director of the museum. It is said that Alexandru Plămădeală personally selected 160 works of Bessarabian and Romanian artists to set up the museum's first gallery. Apart from viewing the collection itself, visitors to the museum can learn about many of its lost treasures – a rather exciting story.

Why You Should Visit:
A nicely refurbished museum, very suitable for art exhibitions. The current collection has a good selection of old and very modern paintings/sculptures. You can see that the staff makes efforts to present the permanent collection properly and also to organize interesting temporary exhibits.

Tip:
The museum can be visited in about an hour and a half, including temporary exhibitions.