Church of Transfiguration Chisinau
Hell in Chisinau
When I have city tours and I show to my guests Stefan cel Mare Boulevard, the main street of Chisinau, I always lead them to the Church of Transfiguration. I definitely know that not everybody believes in God and churches can provoke different feelings, but I want to show them not the religious side, but something very interesting.
In soviet times, this cathedral was transformed into the Planetarium, a research center for analyzing the stars' position on the sky. With Perestroika, the building was given back to the church authorities and the reconstruction was made within several years.
The church inside looks like any other church in Eastern Europe, but the most unique painting is right above your head when you enter the building. 5 years ago, permission was given to a young artist to illustrate heaven & hell. Nothing wrong about heaven, but the hell scenes look so amazing, so real, as if they were taken from some computer game or scary movie.
The size of the picture is 5 by 7 meters and I still can't understand how the very conservative orthodox church of Moldova gave permission to the artist to paint such a modern depiction of the Bible.
Not so many people go inside this church, but if you have the chance, find some time and go inside. Entrance is free. Take your time to see every part of this painting. You can also take pictures if mass isn't going on.
Really great spot!
About this spot
Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt 164a
- 09:00 - 17:00 daily
MDL
no-price
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Chisinau
Valea Morilor Park
Our best recreation area
"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Istanbul Bazaar
Turkish market
"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Buiucani District
My part of town
"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Hotel
Soviet estate
"Chisinau Hotel" really has changed very little from soviet times. You don't have to stay, just ask to have a look around the rooms...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Train Station
Stalinist square
Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
La Izvor
City lake
"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Soviet Mosaic
On Negruzzi street
We have plenty of Soviet mosaics in Chisinau that mean different things to different people. But this one on Negruzzi street has its own beautiful story!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
MoldExpo
Come to Lenin
"MoldExpo" in Chisinau isn't just a green space that hosts exhibitions -- the statue of Lenin that used to stand in front of the government is here now.
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Eminescu Square
Not only souvenirs
"Eminescu Square" in Chisinau is a place you can't miss as a tourist. The square itself is beautiful, old and full of real Moldavian souvenirs...
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Flea Market
Back in time
"Chisinau Flea Market" is full of thousands of old soviet stuff. By buying things here, you help out the poor old people, so I encourage to get something!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Chisinau Underground
Passage
Chisinau's underground passages used to be scary, dark, smelly and full of tasteless graffiti. Now things have changed -- you definitely have to see them!
by
Nicolai
Chirnev
Salat
Family restaurant
"Salat" is a family restaurant in Chisinau. Most of the time, I come here for lunch. They have bistro tables & a nice big buffet, and so are pretty cheap!
by
Nicoleta
Seretinean
Heading to Chisinau?
87 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Chisinau?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 87 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Chisinau
Get to know our other Spotters from Chisinau
As featured on:
