#Exhibit of the Month

This remarkable portrait of Mihai Eminescu, created by artist Alexandru Gușanov, is based on one of the four known photographs of the poet. The photograph that inspired this portrait was taken in 1869 in Wenceslas Square, Prague, when Eminescu was only 19 years old. The oval composition and harmonious color palette highlight the prominent personality and charisma of the young poet, capturing an expression that conveys both melancholy and intellectual depth.
Alexandru Gușanov (1929-2005), a Moldovan painter of Ukrainian origin, distinguished himself through his extensive work, comprising approximately 5,000 pieces - portraits, landscapes, and still life paintings. Settled in Moldova since 1945, Gușanov graduated from the Republican Art School "I.E. Repin" in Chișinău in 1952. His works were showcased in numerous national and international exhibitions and were highly appreciated in countries such as France, Hungary, Russia, and Yugoslavia. The artist dedicated a significant part of his career to creating portraits of historical and cultural figures, including Dimitrie Cantemir, Mihail Kogălniceanu, and Alexei Mateevici, which are part of the National Museum of History of Moldova's collection.

The subject of the portrait, Mihai Eminescu (1850-1889), is the most significant poet in Romanian literature, whose works reflect profound thought, sensitivity toward nature, and national identity. At the age of 19, when the photograph that inspired this portrait was taken, Eminescu was in the midst of his intellectual formation, preparing to become the iconic voice of Romanian culture. Among his most famous works is the poem Luceafărul (The Morning Star), a masterpiece of universal literature.

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Scientific Conference with International Participation "Saint John Paul II and the Catholic Church in the Republic of Moldova" and the Opening of the Exhibition "Saint John Paul II"

October 15, 2024

On October 15, 2024, the National Museum of History of Moldova, in partnership with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Chișinău and the Embassy of the Republic of Poland, organized the scientific conference with international participation titled "Saint John Paul II and the Catholic Church in the Republic of Moldova."

The event took place in the Blue Hall of the museum, bringing together specialists and researchers from various fields. The conference aimed to explore the influence and legacy of Saint John Paul II on the Catholic Church and society in the Republic of Moldova, addressing themes relevant to recent history and the role of faith in community life. The conference included communication sessions where the following relevant topics were discussed:

• Ion Gumenâi (National Archives Agency/USM): "The Influence of the Catholic Church in the Moldavian SSR in the 1980s" - An overview of social and political changes.
• Fr. Petru Ciobanu (Roman Catholic Diocese of Chișinău): "The Establishment of the Apostolic Administration for Moldova" - The relevance of this institution for the Catholic community.
• Anna Skowronek (Adam Mickiewicz University): "The Formation of the Catholic Church in Bessarabia" - Historical context and development.
• Anatol Petrencu (USM): "Pope John Paul II and the Fall of Communism" - Moral and spiritual influence.
• Fr. Fabian Doboș (Al.I. Cuza University): "The Pope's Visit to Romania" - Key events and reactions.
• Anton Coșa (Museum of History, Bacău): "The Coat of Arms of Pope John Paul II" - The significance of its symbols.
• Lilia Zabolotnaia (National Museum of History of Moldova): "Nelea Saganova - Historian of the Catholic Church in Moldova" - Impact on historical research.
• Fr. Alois Moraru (Roman Catholic Diocese of Iași): "Relations Between the Dioceses of Iași and Chișinău" - History of collaboration.

In conclusion, Fr. Petru Ciobanu presented "The Altar of Gratitude," dedicated to the 39 members of the Catholic clergy who served in the Republic of Moldova, highlighting the significant contributions of each member. He emphasized important details from their biographies, including pastoral activities, community involvement, and their impact on the development of the Catholic Church in the region. This tribute recognized the dedication and sacrifices made by these spiritual leaders in support of faith and human values.

Additionally, during the conference, the opening of the exhibition dedicated to Saint John Paul II took place. The event included presentations by special guests and experts, who discussed the influence and legacy of this spiritual leader. Information panels placed along the museum's fence offered visitors the opportunity to explore the life and work of John Paul II, highlighting his achievements and the challenges faced during his papacy.

In conclusion, a word of thanks was offered, reaffirming the Catholic community's commitment to interreligious dialogue. Following this, His Excellency Anton Coșa, Roman Catholic Diocese of Chișinău, led a prayer for peace, emphasizing the desire for harmony among all religious communities.

The exhibition will remain open to the public until October 31, 2024.