Cultural tourism

International research makes clear that culture and heritage matters to tourists. It was concluded that respondents agreed that history and culture are strong influences on their choice of holiday destination. Cultural tourism gives the Republic of Moldova new opportunities and importance, not only as a new growth market, but also, for political reasons, as a means of producing favorable images of the country.

Moldova has a rich and important cultural heritage, represented by a large spectrum of cultural activities and has a great potential for cultural tourism. About 140 sites of cultural interest, like archeological sites, ancient and historical buildings, country estates, remains of medieval fortresses, churches and cloisters, cave monasteries and monumental art works are parts of the repertoire Moldova has to offer. Also monuments and technical equipment, building ensembles – squares, streets, quarters, villages and urban centers as well as traditional architecture ethnographic areas belong to that. Chisinau, the capital city, features a good number of cultural monuments, fine examples of domestic architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries, which might gain the interest of tourists as well.

A very interesting aspect of the Moldovan culture has its root in the variety of cultures represented in different parts of the country. Moldova can be seen as an amalgam of many nationalities, minorities and cultures with many traditions, languages, folklore, cooking, etc., most of them reflecting the distinct traditions of their districts and ethnic origins

ACTIVITIES

To promote and support the development of cultural tourism in the Republic of Moldova. In particular:

  • to promote the treasures , ‘hot spots’ and cultural richness and values of Moldova
  • to focus on an integrated program with attention for all aspects of the heritage
  • to initiate the development of a program with a domestic and international character
  • to promote the Black Sea region as a tourist destination by developing and offering of cross-border packages
  • to promote national holidays and attractive memorable events as opportunities to increase the growth of interested tourists and to familiarize them with the Moldovan traditions
  • to globally promote through various organizations and media the tourism potential and possibilities of the Republic of Moldova by highlighting the attractive and unique essentials of the country
  • to continue and further enhance the involvement in the implementation of the regional project "Creating Networks for Developing a Sustainable Tourism in Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia ‘(BS - TOURISM NET), funded by the Joint Operational Program ’BLACK SEA BASIN 2007-2013’, through the existing experience of specialists

INQUA-Moldova aims to promote and support the development of cultural tourism in the Republic of Moldova by initiating and implementing practical projects that contribute to a better understanding of the historical and cultural heritage values of Moldavia and the (international) promotion of the country and its people. It also aims to continue and further enhance the cooperation with organizations and networks in successful programs to develop sustainable tourism in the region.

Through

  • conducting research on ‘forgotten or hidden’ Moldovan treasures with important cultural and historical values
  • mapping and describing of important cultural historical sights and to include this information in brochures and reports
  • the development and execution of expert guided tours
    developing guidelines, signpost material and walking trails for different categories of tourists
  • participation in the development of tourist routes in different categories of tourism, like cultural, rural, ecological, religious, agricultural, wine and cooking, spa etc.
  • introducing the programs to domestic and international touristic programs