Moldovan villagers defy odds, cling to rural roots
They lack a developed infrastructure, yet they have no desire to abandon their village. We are speaking of the 14 inhabitants of the villages of Valea and Livezi in the Soroca district, for whom their birthplace has become a sacred place.
These two villages are among the least populated in the district and the entire Republic of Moldova. Entering Livezi, one encounters the home of Dumitru Donos, a 60-year-old lifelong resident:
"Here, in this little house, we were eight children. And you never wanted to leave this place and move somewhere more livable? - No, I understand that going abroad is only feasible with money, for leisure or tourism, but for work, especially undocumented work, I think life abroad is difficult for everyone."
In his native village, Dumitru married and cultivated an orchard. He jokingly remarks that living in Livezi (Orchards) is no accident:
"I tend to the orchard. It’s a passion inherited from my parents."
Down the valley, a younger family resides. Ana Taralenco, 27, lives here with her husband and child. She affirms that she would never leave these picturesque surroundings:
"I’ve never considered leaving the village for a city or another village. I have no such desire. The city is confined, while here we have freedom and clean air. In any case, life here is better than in the city."
Across from Livezi lies another small hamlet nestled in a hollow. Locals say this is where the village of Valea got its name. Three families call this place home. Valentina Popa, a 31-year resident, shares her attachment to the village:
"I have three children and grandchildren. When they’re all together, it’s a great joy. I work in Soroca as a seamstress. My husband works as a construction foreman. We’re down to three houses. Many people told me to leave, but I never would."
Another resident of Valea, Veaceslav Dorogan, is over 70. His wife lives in Bădiceni, but he remains in Valea, tied to his ancestral home. Despite limited services, he has no intention of leaving:
"It’s simple. A store brings us bread and other necessities. If we need something serious, we go to the city. I keep livestock: three cows, two goats, and a pig. I’ve never considered leaving the village or going abroad. I’ve been to Russia a few times, and it was terrible. The police would search us and sometimes even arrest us."
The small neighbouring villages of Valea and Livezi date back to 1910. At that time, there were 22 households in both localities.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
