#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.

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Events Archive

"Author's Wine Festival"

September 2, 2023

On September 2, in the courtyard of the National Museum of History of Moldova, the first "Author's Wine Festival" took place, an event that brought together over 30 small winemakers, to proudly present their creations and to share the unique flavors of its wines.

This event was organized by the Association of Small Winemakers from Moldova, with the support of USAID in Moldova and the National Office of Vine and Wine.

Diana Lazăr, director of the USAID Rural Competitiveness and Resilience Project, emphasized the importance of this festival as a promotion platform for signature wines, those that express the creativity and authenticity of Moldovan producers.

Vladimir Bolea, Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the importance of the event for life in villages, highlighting that niche wines produced from local varieties represent a development potential for rural tourism in the Republic of Moldova.

The US Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Kent D. Logsdon, emphasized the constant support given to small producers by the United States, highlighting that this festival represented a special opportunity for visitors, not only to taste exceptional wines, but also to get to know the producers behind these creations.

Elizaveta Breahnă, interim director of the National Vine and Wine Office, noted the positive evolution of the wine industry in Moldova, with an emphasis on quality and authenticity, in contrast to previous practices. The presence of 33 producers at this festival is a significant step in the right direction.

The "Author's Wine Festival" demonstrated that the Republic of Moldova has a rich winemaking tradition and a growing industry, especially in the segment of small producers and designer wines. This event brought together wine enthusiasts and producers, contributing to the promotion of Moldovan wine culture in an innovative and authentic way.

#Exhibit of the Month

Glass Goblet from the Sântana de Mureș-Chernyakhov Cemetery (4th Century AD) in Tigheci

"Author's Wine Festival"

September 2, 2023

#Exhibit of the Month