#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

Opening of the Exhibition "Metallurgy – from Magic to Industry"

September 26, 2024

On September 26, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted the opening of the exhibition "Metallurgy - from Magic to Industry," a remarkable event that sheds light on the evolution of metallurgical technologies over time and their impact on society.

In his opening address, Dr. hab. Eugen Sava, General Director of MNIM, welcomed the attendees, emphasizing that the exhibition offers a fascinating journey through the history of metallurgy, from the early metalworking techniques, often considered magical, to its modern industrial applications. Mr. Sava noted that in the past, metalworkers were viewed as sorcerers due to their secret knowledge and extraordinary skills, which inspired Dr. Mariana Sîrbu to propose the exhibition title "Metallurgy - from Magic to Industry." He also mentioned that this exhibition is designed not only for specialists but for all those interested in history and science.

Gheorghe Postică, Head of the Archaeology Department, provided an extensive presentation on archaeological findings that illustrate early metallurgical practices in the Carpathian-Danubian-Pontic area. "These artifacts, dating from the Bronze and Iron Ages, showcase the craftsmanship of ancient artisans and the role of metals in shaping the social and economic hierarchies of those times," he mentioned.

Concluding the event, Dr. Mariana Sîrbu, an archaeology specialist, explained the complexity of metallurgical processes and the innovative techniques used in antiquity. She also highlighted the invaluable contribution of these discoveries to the understanding of technological evolution in Moldova, referencing the unique items on display, such as tools, weapons, and jewelry, all of which hold great historical significance.

The exhibition features approximately 2,200 metallurgical pieces, including works of art and utilitarian objects, tools, machines, and industrial components, each demonstrating advanced metalworking techniques. The fine details and precise craftsmanship of each item underscore the technological and artistic evolution of metallurgy throughout history.

The public is invited to explore this captivating journey through the history of metallurgy until September 26, 2025.