Arcul de Triumf · The Triumphal Arch

Symbol of the 1840 Russian victory over the Ottomans — heart of Great National Assembly Square

4.7 · 7634 reviews· Chișinău

RecommendedBudget< 300 leiIn ChișinăuOutdoor

Also worth it for

Iconic photograph at the symbolic centre of Chișinău

Why it’s worth visiting

Good as a first stop downtown — the landmark on the Great National Assembly Square, where any walk through the city begins.

The story

Chișinău's Arch of Triumph (locally "Holy Gate") was erected in 1840 to Luca Zaușkevici's design to commemorate the Russian army's victory over the Ottomans in the 1828-1829 Russo-Turkish war. Built in Cosăuți stone in Russian classicism style, 13 m tall, it carries in its upper section a 6.4-tonne bell cast from 8 Ottoman cannons captured at Izmail. Its basement is a still-functional WWII air-raid shelter. Today it is the symbolic centre of Great National Assembly Square (site of the 27 August 1991 independence), flanked by the Nativity Cathedral (1836), Parliament and Government. Zero point of any Chișinău visit.

What to expect

Best at

At sunset

Duration1-1 h

Good for

Relaxed eveningAs a coupleWith familyRomantic dateCultural discoveryFirst-time visitorTourist weekend

Gallery

What people love

iconic central landmark
beautiful neoclassical
photo spot
close to everything central

Photo moments

arch at sunset
Cathedral framed through arch
clock close-up
square panorama

Ambiance

Family-friendly

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What visitors wrote

“In the heart of Chișinău stands the Triumphal Arch, a monument of modest proportions but immense historical soul. It may be smaller than the famous arches of Paris and Bucharest, yet within its weathered stones rests a big history, echoing victories and centuries of change. This is no distant landmark, you are invited to walk directly beneath it, to feel its presence envelop yo…”
— Kate P 5
“Often compared to a smaller version of the triumphal arches found in Paris or Bucharest, the Triumphal Arch in Chișinău may be more modest in size, but it stands out for its charm and character. It is a beautiful construction, rich in architectural details, with a large decorative clock that adds to its uniqueness. One of the most appealing aspects of this arch is that visitors…”
— Fernando Pedroza 5
“The Triumphal Arch in Chișinău is definitely a structure worth seeing! Located right in the heart of the city, it’s impossible to miss and acts as a fantastic focal point for the main square. It has a simple, yet striking and elegant design. You can really appreciate the history as you stand beneath it; built in the 19th century, it's a great reminder of the city's past victori…”
— Happy Holiday 5