#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

Events Archive

Dual Education Day in Chișinău

May 28, 2022

On Saturday, May 28, 2022, the courtyard of the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted a series of activities dedicated to dual technical vocational education - an alternative form of classical technical vocational education. Dozens of young people explored interesting and well-paid trades on Dual Education Day!

The event under the slogan "Learn. Work. Win!" brought together about 20 vocational schools and companies that competed in interactive workshops and providing up-to-date training and employment opportunities.

The presented new professional opportunities were addressed, in particular, to graduates of secondary schools, as well as people under the age of 35 who want to learn a new profession. The young visitors learned about the benefits of dual education and took part in a series of workshops in such topical areas as electronics, energy, information technology, food processing, fashion, beauty and even medicine.

Potential students had the opportunity to ask questions, participate in discussions with members of the participating institutions and try out various trades. Thus, in the workshops, they discovered culinary, clothing and beauty tricks, learned the secrets of efficient agriculture, explored energy innovations and saw how they can change the world through digitalization.

The event was attended by Mr. Anatolie Topala, Minister of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, who stressed the important role of this form of education for contemporary society.

In addition to useful information and unique opportunities, an entertainment program awaited visitors. The stage of the event included several musical performances, fashion shows, as well as exciting dances.

The Dual Education Day 2022 was organized by the Ministry of Education and Research of the Republic of Moldova, with the support of the project "Promoting Technical Vocational Education for a Green Economy" implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Cooperation and Economic Development (BMZ) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The event was also illustrated by a photo exhibition, which can be viewed on the fence of the National Museum of History of Moldova until June 15, 2022.

#Exhibit of the Month

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

Dual Education Day in Chișinău

May 28, 2022

#Exhibit of the Month