Wayside Shrines in Moldova

The wayside shrines in Moldova have fascinated me since my first visit in 2023. I wanted to take photos then of the simple crosses I saw along the way to Chișinău but woefully didn’t take any. I was lucky to have been given a second chance this year to take a few images of these unique sanctuaries that dot the bucolic landscape.

These shrines often consist of a simple Troiță (cross) found at intersections or entrances to a village and along country roads. Often it is just a simple wooden crucifix. These shrines can be seen not only in Moldova but also in neighboring countries. They mark a sacred place or a memorial. The cross is also a manifestation of gratitude and devotion. (The troiță above is actually inside the Ciuflea Monastery in Chișinău. I show it here for reference purposes.)

These shrines I’m posting here are more elaborate miniature chapel shrines with gilded domes and frescoes. The domes are reminiscent of the architecture of Christian Orthodox churches.

Moldova is a predominantly Christian country and the majority of the population identify with the Moldovan Orthodox Church.

This mini chapel shrine has both a dome and frescoes. It stands along a quiet highway like a beacon of faith. You can’t help but admire it.

Finding these beautiful shrines can be a tour on its own. You can easily spend a day driving along country roads searching for one shrine after another. And each one is unique. But you’ll need a car.

How to get to Moldova from Romania:

Please check here for various options on how to get to Moldova: rome2rio.com.

I was on a roadtrip to Moldova, Transnistria and Veliko Tarnovo with Nicolas Experience Tours which company I also went with in 2023 for the Painted Monasteries, Ukraine and Moldova tours. Please read my review under Travel Tips and Resources. https://experience-tours.ro/

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