Unveiling Cultural Treasures: Highlights from the European Night of Museums
Upon the discovery of the cultural treasures housed within museums during the nighttime, visitors immersed themselves in the offerings of the European Night of Museums.
This event, aimed at promoting our European identity and celebrating heritage, provided educational and cultural experiences for individuals of all ages.
A notable attraction at the oldest national museum, the Museum of Ethnography and Natural History, was the opportunity for visitors to perceive the image of the Tree of Life in a novel light.
"Elena Cojocari, the deputy director of the National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History, elucidated, 'Visitors can interact with and illuminate this Tree, while also learning about its symbolic representations in three languages.'"
Indeed, all exhibits showcasing the flora, fauna, history, and culture of the region were keenly explored by visitors.
One attendee remarked, "I came to introduce my son to the ethnographic museum. Unfortunately, this is our inaugural visit, and we learned of Museum Night through the radio."
Another expressed their delight, stating, "We are refugees from Ukraine and it's our first time at this museum. It's an extraordinary event, with exceptional exhibits. We're grateful for the opportunity to witness such beauty."
Journeys into the annals of Romanian literary history were also undertaken by visitors to the National Museum of Romanian Literature.
"We are familiar with the past of our literature, yet we uncover some previously unknown details, bringing forth new insights."
Families frequented the Literature museum, eager to acquaint their children with its wealth of treasures, events, and captivating atmosphere.
Maria Șleahtițchi, director of the National Museum of Literature, remarked, "It's a magical night, dedicated to those with an interest in museums. Naturally, our branches, spanning Pererîta, Ocnița, and Donici, are also actively engaged in this endeavour."
Excitement abounded at the History Museum of Chișinău, where visitors not only explored exhibitions but also beheld the city's beauty from elevated vantage points, and indulged in musical performances and fashion showcases in the nearby square.
Similar fervour was evident at the plastic art exhibitions within the halls of the National Art Museum, where visitors were treated to musical harmonies.
Innovative activities, such as caricature drawing and rapid sketching, enhanced the ambiance, leaving visitors enamoured.
The distinct atmosphere, encounters with exhibits, and complimentary museum access were all well-received by attendees.
"It was truly splendid; I arrived early, around noon. I greatly enjoy admiring and contemplating."
For the first time, the exhibition hall of the National Bank of Moldova (NBM) participated in the European Night of Museums. A plethora of visitors crossed the institution's threshold for the first time.
Elena Mămăligă, guide at the NBM exhibition hall, shared, "Our exhibition hall celebrates its 20th anniversary, coinciding with this esteemed cultural event, the European Night of Museums. Visitors have the opportunity to glean novel insights into our national currency, commemorative coins issued by the National Bank, and the security features of banknotes."
A rare attraction was a gold ingot, seldom seen even by the institution's staff.
"Monetary gold is safeguarded in our treasury; access to it is restricted. This ingot serves as an asset of the NBM, constituting a reserve in the form of gold," elucidated Corneliu Crețu, head of the NBM department.
He further emphasised, "This serves as a valuable educational opportunity, fostering a comprehensive understanding of the NBM's functions."
Participants gained insights into the security features of the lei banknotes, a crucial aspect of financial literacy.
The European Night of Museums commemorated its anniversary edition, marking two decades since its inception by the International Council of Museums, under the auspices of UNESCO and the Council of Europe.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
