#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

"Walk of Hope" flashmob at the Museum

October 4, 2022

On October 4, the "Walk of Hope" flashmob took place, with the participation of over 60 young people, which was dedicated to the celebration of World Palliative Care Day, marked on the second Saturday of October.

The given action was organized by Hospices of Hope Moldova and the International Language Training Center ILTC, which decided to celebrate its 28th anniversary, together with the students of the Center, through an action to raise awareness and support terminally ill patients, part of the national Hospices of Hope Moldova network.

The flashmob started with a group walk, with the aim of involving the community in actions to promote the need for palliative care in Moldova, which started from Grigore Vieru square towards the Great National Assembly Square, the final point being the National Museum of History of Moldova.

The action ended by organizing a small reception, during which a fundraising campaign took place in support of Hospices of Hope Moldova, where the sum of 11,600 MDL was collected.

"It has already become a tradition to celebrate ILTC's anniversaries with contribution actions. Donating is not an obligation, but an opportunity to give back to the community. Through the donations made, but also through this Walk of Hope, together with the teachers and students of the Center, we contributed to saving lives, improving conditions for patients in need of palliative care within Hospices of Hope Moldova. The power of participation from each of us is what makes a difference in people's lives!" Victoria Galii, ILTC Director.

All funds collected will be directed towards the consolidation and development of palliative care services in the Republic of Moldova.

Co-organizer: International Language Training Center (ILTC)
Partners: National Museum of History of Moldova, Basavin Winery.