Moldova promotes religious tourism through RESPECTS project

European project RESPECTS (Religious, Spiritual and Pilgrimage European Cultural Tourism with Sustainability) was officially launched today in Chisinau. Its goal is to promote religious tourism as a form of sustainable cultural tourism in less developed regions of Europe.

The Republic of Moldova is a partner in this project through the Agency for Monument Inspection and Restoration (AIRM), which proposes a national religious route of 4–5 days. The itinerary includes 10 Orthodox monasteries in the districts of Călărași, Strășeni and Orhei and can be followed on foot, by bicycle or using local transportation. The aim of the route is to harness the spiritual, natural and rural heritage of the involved regions.

During the launch event, representatives from the Ministry of Culture and the National Tourism Office highlighted the importance of religious tourism as a strategic direction for diversifying the country's tourism offerings. Integrating the route into NeamPornit campaign and on digital platforms like Village Travel Bot will ensure effective promotion, both nationally and internationally.


“RESPECTS project aims to preserve sacred heritage; digitalize the tourism offerings; promote local products; involve rural communities in sustainable tourism activities. Through this endeavor, the Republic of Moldova takes an important step in responsibly harnessing religious heritage and integrating it into European networks of spiritual tourism,” explains the National Tourism Office.