Dondușeni, Moldova, Republic of
Museums
If you're in Dondușeni and interested in museums, you may want to visit the "Museum of Northern Development" in Balti. It's about 40 kilometers away from Dondușeni, and it features exhibitions on the history, culture, and economy of northern Moldova. A similar museum in the area is the "Balti Museum of History and Ethnography," also located in Balti.
Food
Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Dondușeni and the surrounding region of Moldova include:
1. Mămăliga - a traditional dish made from boiled cornmeal, served with sour cream and cheese.
2. Sarmale - stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and spices.
3. Placinte - savory pastries filled with potatoes, cheese, or meat.
4. Zeama - a soup made with chicken or pork, vegetables, and sour cream.
5. Mititei - grilled minced meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices.
6. Piftie - a cold jelly made from pork trotters and flavored with garlic and vinegar.
7. Tochitura - a hearty stew made with pork, onions, garlic, and peppers.
8. Cozonac - a sweet bread roll filled with nuts, raisins, and Turkish delight.
9. Lapte cu gris - a warm, creamy dessert made from milk, sugar, and semolina.
These dishes are all beloved by locals in Dondușeni and across Moldova, and are sure to give you a taste of the region's rich culinary heritage.
Activities
There are several fun activities that locals in Dondușeni and nearby areas enjoy:
1. Hiking in the nearby Codru forest or visiting the natural reservation "Prutul de Jos" for a day trip.
2. Visiting the traditional markets, such as the central market in Balti, to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts.
3. Participating in festivals and events, such as the annual Wine Festival in Balti or the International Folklore Festival held in Chisinau.
4. Enjoying traditional Moldovan cuisine at local restaurants and cafes, such as the Zimbru Restaurant in Balti or La Placinte in Chisinau.
5. Exploring historical sites, such as the Soroca Fortress or the Church of the Intercession of the Virgin Mary in Hancu village.
