Orheiul Vechi investment boosts Moldova tourism and creates 53 jobs
The Orheiul Vechi cultural and natural reserve welcomed more than 100,000 visitors in the first nine months of this year, with about 65% being local visitors.
According to the Center Regional Development Agency, the rise is attributed to regional investments and the reserve's established position as one of Moldova's most popular destinations.
The Tourist Information Centre at Orheiul Vechi offers a wide range of services, including specialist guides, educational activities, themed workshops, promotional materials and local souvenirs.
Cultural and educational events – such as children's workshops, guided tours and themed exhibitions – are organised periodically to help promote local heritage and boost community engagement.
The infrastructure of the Orheiul Vechi cultural and natural reserve has been renovated in recent years with financial support from the National Fund for Regional and Local Development.
The project, valued at 30m lei, to consolidate, conserve and develop tourist infrastructure, was completed in December 2024. It entered its sustainability phase on 18 September 2025, running until September 2028.
Main sites rehabilitated include the medieval Tatar bathhouse – the largest of three discovered at the archaeological site – which was restored using its original historic cobblestone pavement. Other works include modernising the access road to the Butuceni Promontory, installing a public lighting system, and reconstructing the defence wall based on historical documents, offering visitors a fascinating journey into the past.
The project's implementation has boosted the local economy by increasing visitor numbers and developing related services. Local guest houses, restaurants and producers have benefited from increased demand, with the project leading to the creation of 53 new jobs, supporting the community's socio-economic development.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
