#Exhibit of the Month

The Chișinău Diocesan Girls' School opened its doors on May 3, 1864, addressing a pressing need: in Bessarabia there were no institutions dedicated to the education of clergy's daughters. According to the 1864 circular, teaching was conducted in the Romanian language, a provision applied throughout the diocese. The school's first headmistress was Anastasia Rizo, of noble origin, invited by Archbishop Antonie.

The curriculum, approved by the Ministry of Public Education and the Chișinău Diocese, combined theoretical subjects with practical training. Students studied religion, reading and writing in Romanian, Slavonic, and Russian, arithmetic and exercises in calculation, world history and geography. The program was complemented by church singing and practical skills such as sewing, embroidery, knitting, as well as household management - baking bread and prosphora, preparing meals and preserves, caring for livestock, and cultivating gardens.

The composite, taken in 1911 at the studio of Z. N. Sumovski in Chișinău, depicts 29 graduates and 13 teachers. At the center are portraits of Bishop Serafim (Ciciagov), headmistress N. R. Mihelson, teacher V. E. Bejerian, and priests F. Ghiliarov and P. Jurikas. Among the teaching staff was Paraskovia Vasilievna Cuciurenko, a calligraphy teacher for 37 years, who in 1911 became senior educator and assistant headmistress. For her dedication, she was awarded the gold medal "For Long Service."

On the reverse of the vignette is a label from the store and workshop of frames, paintings, mirrors, and window glass owned by A. D. Kon'gova, Chișinău, Gogol Street no. 37, near the State Bank.

This graduation composite was donated at the end of 2025 to the National Museum of History of Moldova by the Dadiștian family from Drochia.

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National Anthem Day of Romania in the Republic of Moldova

July 28, 2024

On July 28, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova hosted an exceptional cultural event titled "The National Anthem, Symbol of Romanian Unity" - the second edition, organized by the YUFest Association. This outdoor opera concert transformed the museum's courtyard into a spectacular stage, bringing together three renowned tenors from Iași: Florin Guzgă, Andrei Apreotesei, and Andrei Fermeșanu. Accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra of "Teleradio Moldova" under the baton of conductor Andrei Zapșa, these artists delivered an unforgettable recital, capturing the audience's attention and emotions with their outstanding performances.

The event was further enriched by other remarkable artistic moments. The model Orchestra of the General Inspectorate of Carabinieri under the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Moldova showcased a performance full of vigor and skill, while the CAPRICCIO Children's Choir, led by Mrs. Elena Marian, brought a touch of innocence and purity through the young, talented voices of the youngest artists present. These elements completed a complex spectacle that blended tradition with talent, creating an atmosphere of celebration of Romanian culture and unity.

The event was graced by distinguished guests who emphasized the cultural and symbolic importance of this concert. Historian and university professor Adrian Cioroianu, known for his involvement in promoting Romanian cultural values, was among those who expressed their appreciation for this event's initiative. Additionally, the Mayor of Iași, Mihai Chirică, attended the event, further strengthening the cultural and friendly ties between Iași and Chișinău, two cities that share a common history and a valuable cultural heritage. The presence of these personalities highlighted the significance of the moment and reinforced the message of unity and cultural collaboration between the two Romanian states.

The Minister of Culture, Sergiu Prodan, was also present at the event, underlining the importance of this concert within the context of Chișinău's cultural summer. He emphasized the valuable contribution of the voices from the Iași Opera, stating that the performance is an integral part of the project "The National Anthem, Symbol of Romanian Unity." The Minister highlighted that this concert pays homage to the national anthems of Romania and the Republic of Moldova, symbols of our shared values, history, and identity. In his speech, Sergiu Prodan mentioned that such events are essential for strengthening the cultural ties between the two states and for promoting a common European future based on values of peace, development, and culture.

#Exhibit of the Month

Vignette of Graduates and Teachers of the Chișinău Diocesan Girls’ School, 1911

National Anthem Day of Romania in the Republic of Moldova

July 28, 2024

#Exhibit of the Month