Western Moldavia
Western Moldavia (Romanian: Moldova Occidentală, Moldova de Apus, Moldova de Vest), also called Romanian Moldavia, or simply just Moldova is the core historic and geographical part of the former Principality of Moldavia situated in eastern and north-eastern Romania. Until its union with Wallachia in 1859, the Principality of Moldavia also included, at various times in its history, the regions of Bessarabia (with the Budjak), all of Bukovina, and Hertsa; the larger part of the former is nowadays the independent state of Moldova, while the rest of it, the northern part of Bukovina, and Hertsa form territories of Ukraine.
This article is about the region of Romania. For other uses, see Moldova (disambiguation).Romanian Moldavia consists of eight counties, spanning over 18% of Romania's territory. Six out of the 8 counties make up Romania's designated Nord-Est development region, while the two southern counties are included within Romania's Sud-Est development region. It comprises roughly 48.67% of the wider region of Moldavia.
Western Moldavia is located in the northeastern part of present-day Romania. It is a region characterized by diverse landscapes, including attractions such as:
Carpathian Mountains: The Carpathians form a natural border in the west and southwest of the region, providing both stunning scenery and natural resources.
Between the Carpathians and the Prut River in the east, there are hills and plateaus that are fertile and suitable for agriculture. The Moldavian Plateau is one such area, known for its rolling hills and agricultural productivity.
Prut River forms much of the eastern border of the region, separating it from Moldova (the country) to the east. Besides the Prut, other significant rivers in the region include the Siret and Bistrița, which have played important roles in the region's history and economy.
There are extensive forests in parts of the region, particularly in the Carpathians, providing timber and supporting diverse wildlife.
The population of Eastern Romania/Western Moldavia is diverse, with various ethnic groups contributing to its cultural tapestry:
Administrative divisions[edit]
The area of the region is 46,173 km2 (17,827 sq mi) and covers 8 counties (Romanian: județ), in eastern and northeastern Romania: Bacău, Botoșani, Galați, Iași, Neamț, Suceava, Vaslui, and Vrancea.
Suceava County is also referred to as (the southern) part of Bukovina.
The part of Moldavia where the Csángós lived was called Csángó Land.
Iași is the largest city in Moldavia and one of the most historically significant in Romania. It is often referred to as the "cultural capital" of Romania due to its rich history and vibrant arts scene. Iași was the capital of the Principality of Moldavia, an influential state in Eastern Europe during the medieval period. It was a center of culture, education, and trade. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Palace of Culture (Palatul Culturii), a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture that houses several museums. The Metropolitan Cathedral, the oldest in Romania, is another notable landmark. Iași is also an important educational center, with several universities and research institutes. The "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Romania.
Suceava is a city located in the northern part of Moldavia, known for its historical significance and proximity to the painted monasteries of Bukovina. The city has a rich history, being the former capital of the Principality of Moldavia before it was moved to Iași. The ruins of the Suceava Fortress, a medieval stronghold, are a major attraction. Suceava is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed painted monasteries of Bukovina. These monasteries, such as Voroneț, Moldovița, and Sucevița, are famous for their vibrant frescoes. The city hosts various cultural events, including festivals and art exhibitions. The Museum of Bucovina is a notable museum showcasing the region's history and art.
Piatra Neamț is a picturesque city nestled at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Ceahlău Massif, a famous mountain range often called the "Holy Mountain of Romania." Outdoor enthusiasts visit Piatra Neamț for hiking, skiing, and nature exploration. The city has historical sites such as the Neamț Citadel, a medieval fortress overlooking the city. Piatra Neamț is home to several museums, including the Museum of Ethnography, which showcases the traditional culture of the region.
The cultural landscape of Moldavia is rich and diverse, influenced by various historical events and the intermingling of different peoples and traditions. It is a rich tapestry of traditions, arts, music, cuisine, and customs that reflect its diverse history and influences. Moldavia has been shaped by various ethnic groups, historical events, and geographical features, resulting in a unique and vibrant cultural identity.
Poets and Writers:
Religion: Orthodox Christianity has historically been the predominant religion in Moldavia. The Romanian Orthodox Church has deep roots in the region, influencing both spiritual and cultural life.
Cultural Influences: Folklore and Traditions: Moldavian culture, like many other Eastern European regions, is rich in folklore, traditional music, dance, and customs. Art and Architecture: Moldavia is famous for its painted monasteries, such as those in Voroneț and Humor. These are UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing unique Moldavian architecture and religious art. Moldavian cuisine features dishes such as mămăligă (a type of polenta), sarmale (cabbage rolls), and various soups and stews.
Language: The Moldavian dialect of Romanian is spoken in this region, although it is essentially the same language as Romanian, with some local variations in vocabulary and pronunciation.