Cultural-rural tourism gains focus in Moldova's Drochia

The cultural and natural heritage of northern Moldova was explored by tourism sector representatives during an informational tour organized in the Drochia district. Participants discovered natural monuments, historical landmarks, museums, places of worship, and winter traditions, following a route that combined the promotion of cultural-rural tourism with the valorization of local heritage, CE Report quotes MOLDPRES.

The tour began in the village of Cotova, at Izvorul Mare (the Great Spring), one of the most powerful springs in the area and a state-protected hydrological monument.

“Izvorul Mare is a unique place where 27 natural springs come together. The water flows from ten underground streams and forms a well-arranged water basin that provides a favorable environment for fish. In 2013–2014, the area was renovated and bordered on three sides with a stone fence to protect this hydrological monument of national importance,” said Petru Flocosu.

The itinerary continued in Mîndîc, where participants visited the Ohanowicz Manor and its adjacent dendrological park, known as “Vila Mîndîc,” a built heritage complex dating back to the late 19th century.

In Drochia, the program included a gastronomic stop at the restaurant “Hanu lu Vasile,” part of a cross-border route, as well as visits to the Museum of History, Ethnography and Art and the “Dormition of the Mother of God” Cathedral, noted for its monumental Byzantine-style painting.

The tour concluded in the village of Sofia, with participation in the national festival-competition of winter traditions and customs “Caroling from Village to Village,” which brought together groups of carolers from Moldova and Romania.

The event was attended by the acting director of the National Tourism Office, Ana Sandra, who highlighted the importance of winter traditions as a valuable resource for promoting Moldova’s cultural and rural tourism.

“We spoke about the importance of living traditions for our cultural identity and their essential role in developing cultural tourism and Moldova’s winter tourism offer. Caroling, customs, and folk crafts can become key elements in promoting Moldova as an authentic destination during the winter holidays,” Ana Sandra said.

The informational tour was organized by the National Tourism Office of the Republic of Moldova, with the support of the Ministry of Culture, the Drochia District Council, and local partners.