#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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National Campaign for Child Protection: Child Helpline 116 111

The National Museum of History of Moldova informs the public about the launch of the "National Campaign for the Prevention and Reporting of Child Abuse and Violence," including online. This important campaign, organized by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection in partnership with the Council of Europe Office in Chișinău, promotes the free Child Helpline service - Child Helpline 116 111.

The Child Helpline 116 111, which has been active for over 10 years in the Republic of Moldova, is an essential resource for children who need support, protection, and counseling. Through this service, children can access a safe space to express their concerns, receive consultation on child rights protection, and be referred to the appropriate institutions that can provide necessary assistance.

In the current context, where there has been an increase in cases of violence against children, including online, the campaign aims to raise public awareness of the importance of child protection and the need to report any form of abuse. Every child has the right to a safe environment and the means to seek help when facing difficult situations.

The National Museum of History of Moldova supports this initiative and encourages the public to actively participate in spreading the word about the campaign and the Child Helpline 116 111 service. Protecting children is a shared responsibility, and access to information and support can make a significant difference in the lives of the vulnerable.

#Exhibit of the Month

Stone Battle Axe Discovered at Aluniș, Rîșcani District

National Campaign for Child Protection: Child Helpline 116 111

#Exhibit of the Month