#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

Festive meeting dedicated to the Professional Day of Historians 2024

June 18, 2024

On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, the Blue Hall of the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the festive meeting dedicated to the Professional Day of Historians, established by the decision of the Government of the Republic of Moldova no. 427 of June 10, 2011. The event was attended by historians, teachers, ethnographers, museographers, archivists, students and all history lovers.

The meeting was moderated by dr. hab. university professor Anatol Petrencu (President of the Association of Historians from the Republic of Moldova "Alexandru Moșanu") and dr. hab. Gheorghe Cojocaru (Director of the Institute of History). The event was opened by dr. Adriana Cazacu, Secretary of State, Ministry of Education and Research, who on this occasion addressed congratulatory words to the community of historians from the Republic of Moldova.

Greetings and congratulations were made by dr. Igor Sharov (Rector of the State University of Moldova), mem. cor. Ion Hadârcă (Vice-President of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova); Ghenadie Donos (President of the Trade Union Federation of Education and Research); dr. Monica Babuc (Director of the Romanian Cultural Institute "Mihai Eminescu" in Chisinau) and other representatives of research institutes, universities, agencies, museums, etc. On behalf of the National Museum of History of Moldova, with a message of greeting spoke dr. hab. Gheorghe Postică, who also emphasized the role of museums in promoting history and national values.

During the festive meeting, Diplomas were offered as a sign of high gratitude for the beautiful activity in the field of history, as well as on the occasion of Professional Day of Historians.

The event culminated with an artistic moment, supported by the students of the "Alexei Stârcea" School of Arts.