Cricova Winery

The Cricova Winery is a true underground marvel and a cornerstone of Moldova's national economy. Established in 1952, the winery utilizes an expansive network of former limestone quarries stretching over 120 kilometers. These tunnels provide a consistent temperature and humidity year-round, creating the well-suited environment for aging over 1.3 million bottles of wine. Cricova is particularly celebrated for its sparkling wines, produced according to the traditional French 'Méthode Traditionnelle,' which are exported to connoisseurs worldwide. The subterranean complex houses the National Wine Collection, featuring rare vintages from across the globe, including historical treasures from early 20th-century Europe. Economically, Cricova is a vital driver of Moldova's agricultural exports and a major tourist destination. Visitors navigate the underground streets named after grape varieties, such as 'Sauvignon' or 'Merlot,' exploring grand tasting rooms that have hosted international dignitaries and showcasing the sophistication of Moldovan winemaking.

Nearby cities

Bender

Bender, also known as Tighina, is a historical city on the right bank of the Dniester.

Rîbnița

Rîbnița is a major industrial city on the left bank of the Dniester in Transnistria.

Durlești

Durlești is a suburb of Chișinău, part of the capital municipality.

Dubăsari

Dubăsari is a city on the Dniester in Transnistria.

Căușeni

Căușeni is a city in southeastern Moldova.

Hîncești

Hîncești is located southwest of Chișinău and is famous for the impressive Manuc Bei Manor.

Codru

Codru is a city within the Chișinău municipality.

Slobozia

Slobozia is located south of Tiraspol on the left bank of the Dniester.

Ialoveni

Ialoveni is located south of Chișinău and is world-famous for its wine production.

Sîngerei

Sîngerei is a city in northern Moldova.

Călărași

Călărași is situated in a picturesque hilly area in central Moldova.

Cimișlia

Cimișlia is located in southern Moldova on the Cogâlnic River.

Nisporeni

Nisporeni is located in a hilly region in western Moldova.

Rezina

Rezina is located on the right bank of the Dniester, opposite the city of Rîbnița.

Grigoriopol

Grigoriopol is located on the left bank of the Dniester in Transnistria.

History & landmarks

Chisinau City Hall

The Chisinau City Hall is a historic monument built in 1901 in a Venetian Gothic style.

Mileștii Mici

Home to the world's largest wine cellar according to Guinness World Records, featuring over 200 kilometers of underground limestone tunnels.

Saharna

A major spiritual center of Moldova, famous for its cave monastery, the Holy Trinity Monastery, and 22 scenic waterfalls on the Saharna R…

Nature

Ichel River

A smaller tributary of the Dniester, known for its picturesque valleys in central Moldova.

Ghidighici Reservoir

The Ghidighici Reservoir, located northwest of Chișinău, is one of the largest artificial water bodies in the country.

More places

Cricova Archive Site

A historic site of archiving near Cricova.

Micăuți Limestone Quarry

One of the country's largest limestone quarries, supplying raw materials for the construction and cement industries.

Chisinau Circus

A monumental Brutalist building opened in 1981.

Bucuria Confectionery Factory

The largest confectionery producer in Moldova, based in Chișinău.

Alexander Pushkin Museum

The museum is housed in the small cottage where the Russian poet Alexander Pushkin lived during his exile in Bessarabia.

Mazarache Church

The Mazarache Church is the oldest preserved building in Chisinau, dating back to 1752.

Zorile Shoe Factory

A leading light industry company in Chișinău, specialized in the production of leather and textile footwear.

National Opera and Ballet Theater

Named after the famous soprano Maria Bieșu, the National Theater is the cultural centerpiece of Chișinău.