#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

National holidays at the NMHM

August 28, 2022

On August 28, the National Museum of History of Moldova held for its visitors a series of beautiful activities dedicated to the national holidays of Independence Day and Our Language.

At the entrance, visitors were given tricolor ribbons and were urged to honor the state symbols and history of the nation. Visiting the exhibition began with the "Independence Exhibit", composed of two photographs, one of which captures the moment of signing the Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Moldova by Alexandru Moșanu, and the second captures the restoration of this act on April 26, 2010 (photo belongs to the Moșanu family).

During this day, visitors enjoyed patriotic music that sounded in all rooms of the museum, and watched the documentary film "The Road to Independence", which was shown in the Clio film library.

In order to know the national history and the events that led to the independence of the Republic of Moldova, a quiz was prepared, based on the museum exhibits in room no. 11. Children, adults and families, groups of curious friends took part in the competition, and the correct answers were awarded (books, leaflets, postcards, etc.).

Folk costume is one of the defining elements of national culture and an emblem of national identity along with other national symbols. Thus, the temporary exhibition "Promoters of national identity and values" comes to highlight the role and importance of folk costume for national unity and identity. Whether presented in a classic and conservative style or taken up and reinterpreted, the symbols of popular clothing are always relevant.

An important part of this program was the presentation of the book "The process of searching for policemen, soldiers and volunteers who went missing during the Dniester war of 1992" by Simion Carp, PhD, university lecturer, war veteran, which is a tribute to all the fallen heroes who defended the sovereignty and independence of the Republic of Moldova during the Dniester war in 1992.

We sincerely thank everyone who decided to celebrate the national holidays at the NMHM, and we are very happy that our events create a pleasant atmosphere for spending time with the whole family!

#Exhibit of the Month

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

National holidays at the NMHM

August 28, 2022

#Exhibit of the Month