First castle in Moldova reopens to public In Bulboaca

Chisinau, 17 September /MOLDPRES/ – The first Moldova’s castle, Mimi Castle, reopened its doors to public after more than one hundred years. The inauguration event attended Parliament Speaker Andrian Candu, the Minister of Culture Monica Babuc, the Minister of Agriculture Eduard Grama, ambassadors and other officials, the government’s communication and media relations department has reported.

Andrian Candu remarked the Castle’s unique architecture, noting that the building is impressive and would be a sightseeing to all those who want to discover the Republic of Moldova.

"Today, we witnessed how a legend is reviving. After more than 100 years, Mimi Castle regained its authenticity and gives us pleasure to enjoy this beauty. It is a pearl of the treasure of our country that will be an attraction for all those who want to discover our country, traditions, people and to taste our Moldovan wines," said Andrian Candu.

The speaker appreciated the efforts of all who were involved in the renovation of this monument of national importance.

"I appreciate the work and entrepreneurial spirit of the team that worked to bring onto Moldova’s map an architectural jewel that will remain for generations. It is a place where you find peace and I hope it to become an important tourist attraction," said Andrian Candu, urging citizens to visit the castle.

The parliament speaker wished the organizers success in restoring Castle’s full picture and develop its complex to carry as many events which are important not only for the village, but for Moldova.

The Castle director Cristina Frolov said that the restoration of the building began in 2010, involved a team of over 600 people. According to the director, it is a unique castle in Moldova, situated on an area of ​​200 thousand square meters, a concept that connects past, present and future. The complex includes the old castle founded by Constantin Mimi, buildings constructed in Soviet times, high buildings in the contemporary period, terraces, garden, kitchen traditional underground cellars and tasting rooms.

Monica Babuc, Minister of Culture said that Moldova is rich in historical monuments which are unknown to the public, when being rehabilitated and enhanced, become true architectural jewels that attract tourists both from the Moldova and abroad. At his part, the Minister of Agriculture Eduard Grama said that the building is an attraction on wine tourism map, including at the international level.

Later, officials visited Mimi complex, talking to director of the Castle and winemakers about development projects.

The first castle of Moldova, situated in Bulboaca village, Anenii Noi district, was founded in 1893 by the last governor of Bessarabia, Constantin Mimi. The building was inaugurated after extensive restoration. The castle is named in the top 15 architectural masterpieces in the world of wine.

(Editor A. Raileanu)