#Exhibit of the Month

The artifact is a battle axe made from magmatic rock (diabase) of gray-brown color. It was accidentally discovered in 1966 within the territory of Aluniș village, Rîșcani district. Based on its morphological characteristics, the artifact can be attributed to the Catacomb culture (29th-22nd centuries BCE).

The axe features a massive, elongated naviform body with slightly pronounced shoulders, a short and narrow edge that is flat and circular in cross-section. The blade is slightly curved. The hole was drilled in the maximum width of the object. It is circular in shape with a diameter of 2.2 cm. The surface of the artifact is meticulously polished, worked with great care, and shows no signs of damage or chipping.

Dimensions: Length: 20.0 cm; Maximum width: 8.4 cm; Edge diameter: 5.0 cm; Blade width: 7.0 cm; Weight: 2.3 kg.

Stone battle axes are characteristic of the Catacomb culture communities and are most often found as grave goods, deposited in tombs. Their presence in funerary complexes suggests a multifaceted functionality: weapons, social symbols, and ritual objects. Initially used as weapons, the axes became social symbols for their owners, later acquiring votive significance when deposited in tombs to serve the deceased in the afterlife.

The social symbolic function of stone battle axes is indicated by the high-quality rocks used for their manufacture and the exceptionally meticulous craftsmanship. The large dimensions of the axe from Aluniș support this hypothesis and distinguish it from other examples.

The discovery of stone battle axes outside a funerary complex may indicate their votive deposition. It is difficult to imagine that these exceptionally well-crafted pieces, made from high-quality rocks transported over great distances, could have been abandoned or lost accidentally. It is far more likely that they were deposited for magical-religious purposes, a possibility that may also apply to the stone axe discovered at Aluniș.

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Events Archive

International Festival of Literature and Translation Chișinău (FILIT), Second Edition

September 26-29, 2024

The period from September 26-29, 2024, was marked by a multitude of engaging activities organized as part of the International Festival of Literature and Translation Chișinău (FILIT), in collaboration with the National Museum of History of Moldova. A festive atmosphere celebrating the written word prevailed throughout the festival.

The festival kicked off on September 26 at 9:30 AM with an opening ceremony hosted by the National Museum of History of Moldova. From the very first moments, the literary excitement was palpable, thanks to the presence of prominent personalities and captivating discussions. High school students from Chișinău had the opportunity to participate in an interactive literary game that stimulated their creativity and provided them with an unforgettable experience. This activity encouraged young people to engage with literature and express their thoughts and feelings through writing.

One of the most memorable moments was the "White Night of Poetry" on September 27, an event moderated by the charismatic poet Lena Chilari, which exceeded expectations with the intensity and beauty of the creative act. In the museum courtyard, over 20 poets recited their works with emotion, sharing profound sensitivity and inspiration with the audience. During the recital, the Cultural Center Subcarpați, alongside the band Floare de Maidan, performed their pieces with remarkable sensitivity, offering the audience a unique musical experience, captivating them with the depth and expressiveness of each song.

On the morning of September 28, I was impressed by the enthusiasm of the children who participated in the "History of Writing" workshop organized by the National Museum of History of Moldova. The workshop began with an engaging presentation, where the children, guided by Natalia Popovici, watched a PowerPoint about the history and techniques of writing, thus connecting them with the traditions of the past. Following this introduction, they had the opportunity to practice their newly acquired knowledge through calligraphy. This experience not only inspired them but also deepened their appreciation for the art of writing.

FILIT Chișinău 2024 was more than just a literature festival; it was a profound experience, an open space for cultural exchange, and a celebration of the written word. The events organized provided participants not only with immersion in the world of literature but also with a connection to tradition and culture, all combined in an accessible and engaging way.

For those who attended, the festival represented a source of inspiration and a rare opportunity to interact directly with authors, learn, and reflect on literature.