#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

Opening of the Exhibition "Chișinău at the Red Line"

November 8, 2024

On November 8, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the opening of the documentary exhibition "Chișinău at the Red Line," an initiative that offers the public a profound perspective on the urban heritage of Chișinău and the civic intervention required to protect it. This event, part of a broader project carried out in partnership with the Association for Culture and Arts Arbor and the Arbor Institute for Culture, brought together representatives from the cultural community and civil society to explore both the history and vulnerabilities of the city's architecture.

In his opening speech, the museum's general director, Dr. Eugen Sava, emphasized the crucial role of the museum in promoting and protecting urban heritage and praised the collaboration with civic organizations to draw attention to Chișinău's iconic buildings and monuments. Dr. Sava remarked that this initiative provides the public with the opportunity to reflect on the importance of preserving historic architecture as an integral part of the city's cultural identity.

Project manager Victoria Nagy Vajda highlighted the team's efforts and the commitment of the partners in documenting buildings and public spaces threatened by various urban pressures. "Chișinău at the Red Line," in her words, "is a visual and documentary testimony of the current state of our heritage and a call for collective mobilization to preserve what defines us culturally and historically." The exhibition reflects the intense research work and ongoing dialogue with members of the scientific community, artists, and activists who are fighting to protect historical spaces.

Activist Vitalie Sprânceană spoke about the importance of civil society's involvement in defending architectural heritage, reminding that these buildings and spaces are part of the city's cultural identity and must be protected not only for ourselves but also for future generations. In his words, "Chișinău at the Red Line is more than an exhibition - it is a call to action, an invitation for each of us to contribute to heritage conservation and to be mindful of how the city develops."

The exhibition, open to the public until December 8, 2024, presents a wide selection of documentary materials, collages of historical and contemporary photographs, informative panels, artifacts, and video recordings. These offer visitors a comprehensive view of the current state of Chișinău's urban heritage, showcasing both recent developments and the challenges it faces. The exhibition aims to raise public awareness and promote an active dialogue about the importance and vulnerability of these historical spaces.

The exhibition "Chișinău at the Red Line" will be open from November 8 to December 8, 2024, in Hall 4 of the National Museum of History of Moldova, Chișinău, 31 August 1989 Street, 121A.