#Exhibit of the Month

The exhibit of the month for November is a rare glass goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery, discovered in Tigheci. Dated to the second half of the 4th century AD, this remarkable artifact demonstrates the craftsmanship of the time, made from translucent greenish glass with a truncated cone shape and intricate geometric decoration. The goblet features three rows of hexagonal facets, framed by incised lines, and a row of elongated ovals under the rim, characteristics which classify it within Series VII A, according to E. Straume's classification. These ornamental traits hint at artistic influences from various regions and indicate the spread of technologies and ideas within the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture.

Archaeological Context of the Discovery

The Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov cemetery at Tigheci is located in a historically complex area, positioned on the northwest slope of the Tigheci River, at the "La Lutărie" point. First identified in the 1980s following unauthorized clay extraction, the cemetery has suffered considerable damage, leading to the loss of valuable artifacts and the destruction of graves. Among the objects recovered by Mr. Ion Pușcașu, founder of the Museum of History and Ethnography in Tigheci, are wheel-thrown ceramic items reflecting the traditions and techniques of communities during the Migration Period.

The site was first archaeologically investigated in 1990, when a complete inhumation grave was found, though lacking any inventory. Subsequent surveys in 2013 and 2015 by the National Archaeological Agency revealed ongoing erosion damaging the cemetery, necessitating a rescue excavation in 2017. This campaign documented and investigated five graves from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture, including the skeletal remains of a male individual estimated to have been 40 to 45 years old at the time of death, offering additional insights into the demographic structure of this community.

Cultural Significance and Comparisons

The hexagonally faceted glass goblet is among the most valuable artifacts from the Tigheci cemetery. Similar goblets are characteristic of the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov culture and have been found in notable sites such as Târgșor and Bârlad-Valea Seacă (Romania) and Gavrilovka, Ranjevoe (Ukraine), reflecting the cultural and trade connections of this community with other centers of influence in Late Antiquity. Ancient texts and cultural parallels suggest a complex interaction zone with Hellenistic and Roman influences, reflected in luxury goods production such as this glass goblet.

Virtual Tour

Exhibitions

"Secrets of Ancient Egypt"

February 25 - April 30, 2017

Starting with February 25, the National Museum of History of Moldova will host the first interactive history exhibition dedicated to children "Secrets of Ancient Egypt".

We invite you to a unique interactive journey, during which you will learn about enigmas of the Great Sphinx of Giza, mysteries of the pharaohs, secrets of the pyramids, meaning of amulets.

Offer your child an unforgettable experience!

The exhibition "Secrets of Ancient Egypt" is recommended for children aged 5 to 15 years. This includes presentations and explanations of moments, characters and essential habits of Ancient Egypt - one of the most exciting periods of history, combining historical facts related to children with elements of mockup, interactive workshops with educational purposes.

The unique concept of the exhibition "Secrets of Ancient Egypt" allows interaction with the exhibits and involves younger audiences in the game. During the visit, the children will enter into a pyramid, will sit on the throne of the Pharaoh, will open a sarcophagus, will know the art of mummification and old writing, will create themselves amulets and jewelry similar to that of ancient times, will discover the meaning of things they touch.

Details on: www.historyhackers.md and on the official Facebook page of the project: https://www.facebook.com/historyhackersmd.

The exhibition „Secrets of Ancient Egypt" will be open to the public at the National Museum of History of Moldova (rooms on the ground floor) from February 25 to April 30, 2017.

The exhibition can be visited in groups only, by appointment. Programming is at tel.: 079 833 533.

Groups of visitors should consist of at least 5 and maximum 35 persons.

Exhibition visiting hours:
Monday-Sunday, 10.00-17.00 (until March 26);
10.00-18.00 (from March 27).
Without rest days.

The exhibition will be closed for public on Easter (April, 16-17) and Parent's Day (April, 23-24).

The last group will enter the exhibition at 16.15 (in winter time until 26.03. 2017) and at 17.15 (in summer time from 27.03.2017).

The ticket office closes at 16.15 (in winter time) and at 17.15 (in summer time).

Cost of tickets:

120 lei

Special facilities for entrance tickets:

• Preschool children - free entrance;
• Students who will be visiting the exhibition in groups larger than 15 persons will pay 110 lei/per person, and the attendant from the educational institution will have free access;
• Institutionalized children - free on Tuesday.

Tickets can be purchased from the museum tickets office and online (iTicket).

Come to the exhibition and win the treasure of the Pharaohs!

Buy one ticket and receive a coupon, fill it in and drop it in the special box at the entrance in the exhibition room and wait the draw day.

Every three weeks will be drawn valuable prizes which you have a chance to win!

The pharaohs wish you good luck!