#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.

Virtual Tour

Events Archive

The Second Edition of the Author's Wine Festival

September 7-8, 2024

On September 7-8, 2024, the National History Museum of Moldova hosted the second edition of the Author's Wine Festival, a now traditional event that brings together small local wine producers and wine enthusiasts. Organized by the Association of Small Wine Producers of Moldova, with support from USAID Moldova through the Competitiveness and Rural Resilience Project, the National Office of Vine and Wine, and the Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund, the festival provided visitors with an authentic and diverse experience where wine culture met historical tradition.

In the museum's courtyard, 36 Moldovan wineries showcased their finest wines, from local varieties like Feteasca Neagră and Rara Neagră to Moldovan interpretations of international wines. The event offered the public a unique opportunity to discover the stories and traditions behind each bottle, with each tasting providing an insight into the local winemaking art.

The National History Museum of Moldova contributed to the festival's atmosphere with a special exhibition dedicated to the history of winemaking and viticulture traditions. One of the standout exhibits was the imprint of a grapevine leaf discovered in the Cucuteni site of Brînzeni VIII "Sâiece" in 1980 by Vsevolod Marchevici. This relic illustrates the ancient and continuous winemaking traditions in our region, connecting the festival to a millennia-old cultural heritage.

Present at the event, the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, Mr. Andrian Digolean, remarked: "The Festival of Author Wines reflects the richness and diversity of winemaking in the Republic of Moldova, highlighting the small producers who passionately contribute to promoting our winemaking traditions. It is an excellent opportunity to support the wine sector and emphasize the importance of Moldovan wine in international markets."

Throughout the two-day event, visitors participated in guided tastings led by renowned sommeliers, masterclasses, Wine Talks sessions, and enjoyed live concerts by Cristina Scarlat Band, Mahaya Band, and DJ Wade. The festive atmosphere was complemented by cultural and recreational activities, attracting over 4,500 participants from both Moldova and Romania.

A highlight of the festival was the visit of President Maia Sandu, who honored the event with her presence and emphasized the importance of supporting small wine producers, a vital sector for the country's economy and culture. The President appreciated the diversity of wines presented and the organizers' efforts to create a platform to promote local values.

This festival was not only a celebration of quality wine but also an opportunity to honor Moldova's winemaking traditions, deeply rooted in history and an integral part of our cultural identity.

#Exhibit of the Month

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

The Second Edition of the Author's Wine Festival

September 7-8, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month