What to See in Transnistria

In this episode, David tours this breakaway state of Moldova to show you what to see in Transnistria, a unique place with many Soviet traditions. Transnistria declared independence from Moldova in 1990. It still forms part of Moldova but relies on Russia for military and economic support. The United Nations doesn’t recognize Transnistria but it remains an autonomous state that tourists are welcome to explore.

David begins his tour of Transnistria at the History and Military Memorial in the city of Bendery – a memorial dedicated to the fallen soldiers of three wars (WWII, Russo-Turkish War, and the civil war of Transnistria that took place from in 1992). David’s guide Natalia explains a little bit more about the memorial.

David’s second stop is the 16^th century Bendery Fortress built during Ottoman rule. The fortress is about 69 square hectares and has a museum inside. One exhibit displays military artifacts and memorabilia from the civil war of Transnistria in 1992.

Afterwards, David and Natalia continue their tour of what to see in Transnistria by heading to the capital city of Tiraspol, which also happens to be the second-largest city in Moldova. They make a stop at two other war memorials commemorating the fallen soldiers of several wars and a famous Russian general, Alexandr Suvorov. In case you’re wondering, the Soviets were big on building war memorials!

After exploring the main sites of Transnistria, David and Natalia make their way to Kumanek Tavern Restaurant to try some traditional Ukrainian food such as Borshch (vegetable soup made out of beets, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic). The beets are what give it its intense red color. David also tries Kiev cutlet with potatoes and mushrooms.

Not one to miss the opportunity to try a local alcoholic beverage, David enjoys a 10-year-old glass of cognac by the well-known Transnistrian label KVINT. Also recommended if you love wine as much as David: His Video Guide to the Annual Moldovan Wine Festival

And finally, David shares 5 facts about Transnistria you may not know:

1. Transnistria has its own President
2. Transnistria uses its own currency
3. Transnistria produces caviar
4. Transnistria produces world-class cognac
5. Russian is the official language

So there you have it – A guide of what to see in Transnistria. It’s not a place for everyone and isn’t your typical European country, but that’s what traveling is all about – discovering new places around the world!

If you want to travel to Transnistria, I highly recommend contacting Ways Travel Moldova. Their English-speaking guides will organize your trip to Moldova and Transnistria perfectly around the places you want to visit.

Have you ever traveled to Moldova or Transnistria? Tell us about it in a comment below!