Discover Moldova with #MOLDPRES: Ivancea village, one of most picturesque and historically rich places

Discover Ivancea – green heart of Moldova's Codri Forest

Ivancea village is one of the most picturesque and historically rich settlements in Orhei district, located about 40 km north of Chișinău, on the road to Orheiul Vechi cultural-natural reserve.

The first documentary attestation dates back to 1588 (under the name "Ivancha"). Currently, it has a population of around 3,000 inhabitants. Location: part of the Ivancea commune, along with the villages of Furceni and Brănești, and climate: Codru area, with extensive forests, gentle hills, and fertile soils.

The village has been inhabited over the centuries by free peasants, boyars, and merchants, having a strategic position on the trade routes between Orhei and Chișinău. During the interwar period, Ivancea was a small craft center, renowned for textiles, traditional carpets and wood processing. During the Soviet period, agricultural cooperatives and active cultural centers operated here.

Heritage and attractions

The National Museum of Ethnography and Natural History – "Casa Mare" in Ivancea – an open-air ethnographic complex, with authentic peasant houses, craft workshops, and thematic exhibitions about the old Bessarabian village life.

Ivancea Codrii – part of the protected landscape of Orheiul Vechi Reserve, rich in plant and animal species.

"Saint George" Church – built in the 19th century, with traditional Moldovan architecture.

Unghern Castle – a recent construction with neoclassical inspiration, attracting tourists with its spectacular design and premium hospitality services.

Tourism and local experiences

Hiking through the nearby forests and visits to Orheiul Vechi.

Wine tastings at regional wineries, including Mileștii Mici and Cricova (at a short distance).

Craft workshops – weaving, embroidery, wicker weaving.

Unghern Castle in Ivancea – modern refuge with storybook soul at heart of country

Just 40 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Chișinău, in Ivancea village, on the road leading to the renowned Orheiul Vechi, stands a construction that seems taken from a book of European history and architecture.

Unghern Castle, a creation of the Ungern-von-Sternberg family, combines authentic Cosăuți stone, a burgundy roof, and arched windows with the amenities and comfort of 2025. The result? An elegant retreat where past and present meet harmoniously.

Atmosphere and architecture

Inspired by the European neo-classical style, the castle retains the massiveness and charm of historic buildings but hides a world of modern details inside: smart climate control, high-speed internet, optimized spaces for comfort, and personalized services.

Inside the castle, an intimate restaurant (maximum 50 seats) offers over 70 dishes from Western European cuisine. Here you find complete tranquility – the castle is surrounded by forest, and sunrises and sunsets have an old painting atmosphere.

Why It's Worth Visiting Here

The uniqueness of the mix between classic-inspired architecture and smart amenities

Intimacy and exclusivity – a limited number of rooms, maximum attention for each guest

Strategic location for exploring authentic Moldova and cultural attractions.

Just 40 minutes from Chișinău, the village of Ivancea awaits with magical landscapes, authentic traditions, and a quiet atmosphere, seemingly taken from stories. Stroll through the shaded forests and discover the secrets of nature, just steps away from the famous Orheiul Vechi Reserve. Ivancea is the place where nature, history, and hospitality perfectly intertwine for an authentic experience in the heart of Moldova.

Reporter - Lilia Grubîi