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National Museum of Art
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The National Museum of Art of Moldova, located in Chisinau, was established in 1939 and stands as the country's premier institution for visual arts. It is housed in the historic Dadiani house, a former girls' gymnasium built at the turn of the 20th century by the renowned architect Alexander Bernardazzi. The museum's vast collection includes over 30,000 items ranging from medieval icons and folk art to modern Moldovan paintings and Western European masterpieces. Visitors can explore a diverse array of works that reflect the cultural evolution of the region over several centuries. The building itself is an architectural gem, featuring elements of Italian Renaissance and classicism that were meticulously restored in 2016. As a cultural hub, the museum hosts international exhibitions and educational programs, fostering a deeper understanding of art history in Eastern Europe.
- Location: Moldova
- Top sights: Flat Space · National Museum of History of Moldova · Teatrul Republican de Papusi ,,Licurici"
- Nearby: Durlești (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -2 | 4 | 10 | 17 | 21 | 24 | 24 | 18 | 10 | 4 | -2 |
| Rain mm | 41 | 33 | 38 | 40 | 52 | 70 | 61 | 36 | 39 | 46 | 42 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Museum of Art can be visited during opening hours. The entire permanent exhibition of Moldovan and European art is accessible. Temporary exhibitions are also open.
Typical hours
Museums are typically open Tuesday to Sunday, often from 10:00 AM to 5:00 or 6:00 PM. Mondays are usually closed. Public holidays may bring altered hours.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in the exhibition halls. Special exhibitions may prohibit photography. Permission is required for commercial use.
Time needed
Allow about two hours for a thorough tour of the art museum. Art enthusiasts may spend three hours or longer. The collection includes over 30,000 works, so taking your time is worthwhile.
Combine with
The museum is housed in the historic Dadiani building in downtown Chișinău. Nearby are Cathedral Square and Ștefan cel Mare Park. Combining it with the National Museum of History is recommended.
Getting there
The museum is centrally located and easily accessible on foot. By bus or trolleybus, get off at „Piața Marii Adunări Naționale” stop. Paid parking is available in the area.
Insider tip
Visit the museum on a weekday to avoid crowds. Ask at the ticket desk if an audio guide is available. Admission is usually moderately priced.
Geography
Facts
- Founded on November 26, 1939, by the prominent sculptor Alexandru Plămădeală.
- The main headquarters is the former Dadiani Girls' Gymnasium, built in 1900.
- The museum's collection boasts more than 30,000 pieces of fine and decorative art.
- It includes unique 16th-century Moldovan icons and religious artifacts.
- The museum underwent a major restoration and was reopened to the public in 2016.
- It features permanent galleries dedicated to 19th and 20th-century European art.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Museum of Art (10)
National Museum of Fine Arts🏛 museum
Art museum in Chișinău, Moldova, with a collection of fine arts.
🌐 mnam.md🕒 Tu-Su 10:00-17:00
Conacul urban al familiei Donici
Urban manor of the Donici family in Chișinău.
Saint Venerable Theodora of Sihla Romanian Orthodox Church
Historical, art and architectural monument of national importance in Moldova.
Nicolae Sulac National Palace
Concert hall in Chișinău, Moldova, venue for music and cultural events.
Casa Memorială A. V. Șciusev🏛 museum
Memorial house of architect A. V. Șciusev in Chișinău.
Clădirea fostului gimnaziu pentru fete (1882)
Former girls' gymnasium, built in 1882 in Chișinău.
Peperete
Gallery in Chișinău exhibiting works by local and international artists.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the National Museum of Art located?
It is located in the center of Chișinău, near the Parliament building.
What kind of art is exhibited in the museum?
It displays Moldovan, Russian, and Western European art from the Middle Ages to the present.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entry fee is very affordable, around 1-2 Euros (20-40 MDL) for adults.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the renovated building has modern facilities for wheelchair access.
In what building is the museum housed?
The main building is the former Dadiani Girls' Gymnasium, a magnificent palace.
National Museum of Art: where is it located?
National Museum of Art is located in Moldova.
National Museum of Art: what is there to see?
Highlights include Flat Space, National Museum of History of Moldova, Teatrul Republican de Papusi,Licurici".
National Museum of Art: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
National Museum of Art: why is it worth visiting?
The National Museum of Art of Moldova, located in Chisinau, was established in 1939 and stands as the country's premier institution for visual arts.
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