Before Easter of the Dead, people clean graves, bring flowers, and remember loved ones
Great bustle in the cemeteries, before the Easter of the Dead. People went to take care of the graves of the deceased. On Sunday or Monday, they will meet with relatives and friends to remember those who have passed away. People who will go to the "Saint Lazar" Cemetery in Chisinau will have to reach the area only by public transport, as circulation of other vehicles will be suspended. The municipal authorities also announced the organisation of special and free routes to facilitate the flow of passengers.
Gheorghe Macari lost his wife 27 years ago, and as a sign of respect, he continues to care for her grave.
"She passed away on March 8, at five minutes to one, at the Oncological Hospital. My name is Gheorghe, but she always called me Gheorghe Stepanovici," he shares. "We need to do some painting and clean the monument."
Anatolie also came to plant flowers at his brother's grave.
"We are cleaning and planting flowers, but we will all gather here on Sunday. My godmother, his wife, commissioned and invested in the monument. The cheapest granite option is 8,000 lei."
People brought rakes and brooms and repainted the tables and chairs. They plan to return on Sunday or Monday to commemorate the deceased.
"My daughter and I are clearing away memories. Let her take care; we are not eternal."
Effective cleaning requires a break.
"A glass of wine, a roast, a pasty—let's remember those who have passed away. Who will take care of the deceased? Maybe they will take care of us someday too. Let's tend to my aunt's grave because she is alone and has no one. Let's clean and find peace."
"This is my husband, my mother-in-law, and my husband's first wife. It’s my second marriage, but this is how it is. We lived together for 20 years. I'm sorry, that's why I come every month."
"I found some paint, just like before the holidays. She loved me, and that's why I take care of her, like a granddaughter."
On Easter, access to the "Saint Lazarus" Cemetery in the capital will only be permitted via public transport. People can travel free of charge on buses operating on route no. 27, as well as the additional routes C and D. These routes will provide transportation both to the cemetery and back to the city. Cars can be parked at a designated parking lot located 500 meters away. Today, several workers were busy leveling the ground.
Aside from public transport, traffic will be restricted on Socoleni Str. between Ceucari Str. and Doina Str. as well as on the section that includes Vasile Badiu Str. and Balcani Road.
Ana Chiselița, press officer of INSP, advises: "The National Police recommends that drivers park their vehicles in specially designated areas. Do not consume alcohol or any narcotic substances while driving. For citizens visiting cemeteries, it is crucial to cross the street only according to the rules."
Representatives from the General Inspectorate for Emergencies have made important recommendations regarding the use of candles. They advise that candles and lit candles should be handled with the utmost care and placed only in safe locations, away from artificial flowers, funeral wreaths, dry vegetation, and other easily flammable materials. After use, it is essential to ensure that they are completely extinguished.
Additionally, on Sunday and Monday, a total of 380 rescuers and firefighters, equipped with 139 technical units, will be on duty.
