Western Moldavia (Romanian: Moldova Occidentală, Moldova de Apus, Moldova de Vest), also called Romanian Moldavia, or simply just Moldova is the core historic and geographical part of the former Principality of Moldavia situated in eastern and north-eastern Romania. Until its union with Wallachia in 1859, the Principality of Moldavia also included, at various times in its history, the regions of Bessarabia (with the Budjak), all of Bukovina, and Hertsa; the larger part of the former is nowadays the independent state of Moldova, while the rest of it, the northern part of Bukovina, and Hertsa form territories of Ukraine.
Romanian Moldavia consists of eight counties, spanning over 18% of Romania's territory. Six out of the 8 counties make up Romania's designated Nord-Est development region, while the two southern counties are included within Romania's Sud-Est development region. It comprises roughly 48.67% of the wider region of Moldavia.
The names Moldavia and Moldova are derived from the name of the Moldova River; however, the etymology is not known and there are several variants:
A legend mentioned in Descriptio Moldaviae (1714) by Dimitrie Cantemir links it to an aurochs hunting trip of the voivode of the Voivodeship of MaramureșDragoș and the latter's chase of a star-marked aurochs. Dragoș was accompanied by his female hound, called Molda; when they reached the shores of an unfamiliar river, Molda caught up with the animal and was killed by it. The dog's name would have been combined with the Romanian word for water, apă, and given to the river and extended to the country.Stamp of Moldova - Dragoș, Voivode of Moldova
The GothicMulda (Gothic: 𐌼𐌿𐌻𐌳𐌰, ᛗᚢᛚᛞᚨ) meaning 'dust', 'dirt' (cognate with the English mould), referring to the river.
A Slavic etymology (-ova is a quite common Slavic suffix), marking the end of one Slavic genitive form, denoting ownership, chiefly of feminine nouns (i.e., 'that of Molda').
A landowner named Alexa Moldaowicz is mentioned in a 1334 document as a local boyar in service to Yuriy II of Halych; this attests to the use of the name before the foundation of the Moldavian state and could be the source for the region's name.
Founding of Moldavia: The founding of Moldavia began with the arrival of a Vlach (Romanian) voivode (military leader), Dragoș, soon followed by his people from Maramureș, then a voivodeship, to the region of the Moldova River. Dragoș established a polity there as a vassal to the Kingdom of Hungary in the 1350s.
Middle Ages: Until its union with Wallachia in 1859, the Principality of Moldavia also included, at various times in its history, the regions of Bessarabia (with the Budjak), all of Bukovina, and Hertsa. The larger part of the former is nowadays the independent state of Moldova, while the rest of it, the northern part of Bukovina, and Hertsa form territories of Ukraine.
Ottoman Rule: The key points of Cetatea Albă and Chilia were captured in 1484, and this conquest was ratified by treaty (in 1503 and 1513). The southern part of Bessarabia was again detached—this time being organized into two sanjaks (districts) of the Ottoman Empire.
Russian Administration: The Russians occupied Moldavia five times between 1711 and 1812 and finally secured the Ottomans’ cession of Bessarabia—approximately half of historical Moldavia—in the Treaty of Bucharest (1812).
Union with Wallachia: The union was formed on 24th January 1859 when Alexandru Ioan Cuza was elected as the Domnitor (Ruling Prince) of both principalities. Their separate autonomous vassalage in the Ottoman Empire continued with the unification of both principalities.
King Carol I of RomaniaAfter the Union: On 22nd January 1862, Moldavia and Wallachia formally united to create the Romanian United Principalities, the core of the Romanian nation state. In February 1866, Prince Cuza was forced to abdicate and go into exile by a political coalition led by the Liberals; the German Prince Karl of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen was offered the Throne and, on 10th May 1866 he entered Bucharest for the first time.
Modern Times: Romanian Moldavia consists of eight counties, spanning over 18% of Romania’s territory. Six out of the 8 counties make up Romania’s designated Nord-Est development region, while the two southern counties are included within Romania’s Sud-Est development region.
Western Moldavia is located in the northeastern part of present-day Romania. It is a region characterized by diverse landscapes, including attractions such as:
Geographical map of Romania
Carpathian Mountains: The Carpathians form a natural border in the west and southwest of the region, providing both stunning scenery and natural resources.
Hills and Plateaus: Between the Carpathians and the Prut River in the east, there are hills and plateaus that are fertile and suitable for agriculture. The Moldavian Plateau is one such area, known for its rolling hills and agricultural productivity.
Image depicting a Romanian woman from Moldavia
Prut River: This river forms much of the eastern border of the region, separating it from Moldova (the country) to the east.
Forests: There are extensive forests in parts of the region, particularly in the Carpathians, providing timber and supporting diverse wildlife.
Rivers: Besides the Prut, other significant rivers in the region include the Siret and Bistrița, which have played important roles in the region's history and economy.
The population of Eastern Romania/Western Moldavia is diverse, with various ethnic groups contributing to its cultural tapestry:
Romanians: The majority of the population in this region is Romanian. Romanians have a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and cuisine that reflect both their Latin roots and the influences of various other peoples.
Csángós: Csángós are primarily concentrated in several villages in Bacău County, such as Săbăoani, Hălăucești, and Pustiana. The Csángós have faced challenges in preserving their language and culture over the years.
Ukrainians: Ukrainian settlement in Bucovina dates back to the late Middle Ages, primarily during the 14th and 15th centuries. These settlers were often attracted to the region by its fertile land and opportunities for agriculture.
Gagauz: In some areas, particularly near the border with Moldova, there are Gagauz communities. The Gagauz are a Turkic people who have their own distinct culture and traditions.
Jews: Jews have been documented in the region of Moldavia since at least the 16th century, although some historical records suggest their presence as early as the 15th century. They often played roles in trade, finance, and other economic activities.
Historical map depicting the historical regions of Romania
Iași is the largest city in Moldavia and one of the most historically significant in Romania. It is often referred to as the "cultural capital" of Romania due to its rich history and vibrant arts scene. Iași was the capital of the Principality of Moldavia, an influential state in Eastern Europe during the medieval period. It was a center of culture, education, and trade. The city is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Palace of Culture (Palatul Culturii), a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture that houses several museums. The Metropolitan Cathedral, the oldest in Romania, is another notable landmark. Iași is also an important educational center, with several universities and research institutes. The "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Romania.
Suceava is a city located in the northern part of Moldavia, known for its historical significance and proximity to the painted monasteries of Bukovina. The city has a rich history, being the former capital of the Principality of Moldavia before it was moved to Iași. The ruins of the Suceava Fortress, a medieval stronghold, are a major attraction. Suceava is a gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed painted monasteries of Bukovina. These monasteries, such as Voroneț, Moldovița, and Sucevița, are famous for their vibrant frescoes. The city hosts various cultural events, including festivals and art exhibitions. The Museum of Bucovina is a notable museum showcasing the region's history and art.
Piatra Neamț is a picturesque city nestled at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, including the Ceahlău Massif, a famous mountain range often called the "Holy Mountain of Romania." Outdoor enthusiasts visit Piatra Neamț for hiking, skiing, and nature exploration. The city has historical sites such as the Neamț Citadel, a medieval fortress overlooking the city. Piatra Neamț is home to several museums, including the Museum of Ethnography, which showcases the traditional culture of the region.
Western Moldavia has a diverse economy with strengths in sectors such as education, healthcare, IT, tourism, manufacturing, agriculture, and services. These cities contribute to the region's economic development and offer a range of opportunities for employment and business. The natural resources of the region also play a role in supporting industries such as agriculture, forestry, and minerals.
Iași one of the major economic centers in eastern Romania, known for its diverse economy and contributions to sectors such as education, healthcare, and IT. Iași is home to several universities and research institutes, making it an important hub for education and research. "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University and "Gheorghe Asachi" Technical University are notable institutions. The city has a growing IT sector, with numerous IT companies and startups. This sector benefits from the presence of skilled graduates from the city's universities. Iași has a strong healthcare sector, with several hospitals and medical facilities. It serves as a regional healthcare hub. Iași also has a manufacturing sector, including industries such as textiles, machinery, and food processing.
Piatra Neamț is a city surrounded by natural beauty, attracting tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Its economy includes tourism, and healthcare. The city's proximity to the Ceahlău Massif and other natural attractions makes it a hub for tourism. Hiking, skiing, and ecotourism activities contribute to the local economy. Piatra Neamț has a manufacturing sector, including industries such as machinery, metalworking, and construction materials. The city has healthcare facilities and medical services that serve the local population and surrounding areas. Retail and service industries, including hospitality, restaurants, and entertainment, also contribute to the economy.
VH-YRO Aerostar IAK-52
Bacău is an industrial and commercial city with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, textiles, aerospace, and services. Bacău has a strong manufacturing sector, particularly in aerospace. The city is home to Aerostar, a major aerospace company involved in aircraft maintenance, repair, and manufacturing. The textile industry is also significant, with clothing manufacturing and textile production companies. Bacău has food processing facilities, including meat processing and dairy products. The city's service sector includes retail, healthcare, education, and hospitality, providing a range of services to residents and visitors.
The cultural landscape of Moldavia is rich and diverse, influenced by various historical events and the intermingling of different peoples and traditions. It is a rich tapestry of traditions, arts, music, cuisine, and customs that reflect its diverse history and influences. Moldavia has been shaped by various ethnic groups, historical events, and geographical features, resulting in a unique and vibrant cultural identity.
Portrait of Mihai Eminescu. Photograph taken by Jan Tomas in Prague, 1869
Poets and Writers:
Vasile Alecsandri - One of the most famous Moldavian poets, Alecsandri is considered a national poet in Romania. He was also a playwright, politician, and diplomat. His works often celebrate Romanian history, landscapes, and folklore.
Mihai Eminescu - Eminescu is generally regarded as the most famous and influential Romanian poet. He was an active member of the Junimea literary society and worked as an editor for the newspaper Timpul, the official newspaper of the Conservative Party.
Ion Creangă - One of the most important Romanian poet and writer, Ion Creangă is celebrated for his folk tales, often depicting Moldavian village life with humor and wisdom.
Religion: Orthodox Christianity has historically been the predominant religion in Moldavia. The Romanian Orthodox Church has deep roots in the region, influencing both spiritual and cultural life.
Cultural Influences: Folklore and Traditions: Moldavian culture, like many other Eastern European regions, is rich in folklore, traditional music, dance, and customs. Art and Architecture: Moldavia is famous for its painted monasteries, such as those in Voroneț and Humor. These are UNESCO World Heritage sites, showcasing unique Moldavian architecture and religious art. Moldavian cuisine features dishes such as mămăligă (a type of polenta), sarmale (cabbage rolls), and various soups and stews.
Language: The Moldavian dialect of Romanian is spoken in this region, although it is essentially the same language as Romanian, with some local variations in vocabulary and pronunciation.
The history of religion in Western Moldavia region, is deeply intertwined with the region's history, culture, and identity. Eastern Orthodox Christianity, with its rich history of churches, monasteries, and religious traditions, has been a dominant force in Moldavian life for centuries. Today, the Romanian Orthodox Church continues to play a significant role in the region, fostering cultural preservation, spiritual guidance, and community development.
One of the most iconic symbols of Moldavia's Orthodox heritage is the Painted Monasteries of Bukovina. Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Western Moldavia, these monasteries, including Voroneț, Humor, Moldovița, and Sucevița, are adorned with vivid frescoes depicting religious scenes. These frescoes, created with natural pigments in vibrant hues, not only convey religious narratives but also stand as artistic and historical treasures, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Throughout Moldavia's history, Orthodox Christianity played a pivotal role in preserving Romanian language, culture, and national identity, especially during periods of Ottoman rule. Many churches and monasteries became bastions of resistance and cultural preservation, safeguarding the spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. In the 19th century, during the era of national awakening, the Romanian Orthodox Church was instrumental in promoting Romanian language, culture, and independence. It became a beacon of hope and a unifying force for the Romanian people striving for self-determination.
Today, the Romanian Orthodox Church remains the largest Christian denomination in Moldavia and Romania as a whole. Its influence extends beyond religious worship, encompassing social and charitable activities, education, and cultural preservation efforts. Religious holidays, church services, and traditions continue to play an integral role in the daily lives of Moldavians, providing a sense of community and spiritual grounding. While Eastern Orthodox Christianity remains the dominant faith, Moldavia is also home to small communities of Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Jewish congregations, adding to the region's religious tapestry.
The central motif of Moldavia's historical coat of arms is the head of an aurochs, a powerful wild bull that was native to Europe. The aurochs head is typically depicted facing forward with its horns prominently displayed. Above the aurochs head, there is usually a cross and a crescent moon, representing the diverse religious landscape of Moldavia. The aurochs head is often placed on a shield, which may be adorned with various symbols or patterns. Below the shield, there is often a motto in Latin or Romanian, reflecting the principality's values and aspirations.
The earliest known version of Moldavia's coat of arms with the aurochs head dates back to the reign of Alexander the Good in the 15th century. This early version featured the aurochs head as the central motif, often surrounded by the cross and crescent symbols. During the reign of Stephen the Great the 15th century, the coat of arms was further developed. Stephen introduced the sword and the crescent to the coat of arms, symbolizing his military prowess and victories against the Ottomans.
Piatra Neamț (Hungarian: Karácsonkő)
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Media related to Western Moldavia at Wikimedia Commons
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