Is Transnistria Worth Visiting?

Within the geographical confines of Moldova, a region located along the Ukraine border, Transnistria declared itself an independent republic in 1992 after the collapse of the Soviet Union. However, no international countries recognize its independence. If you’re wondering if Transnistria is worth visiting, the answer is yes. So if you’re visiting Moldova, take a day trip to visit the oddities of Transnistria. 

While technically still a part of Moldova (although it refuses to behave as such), Transnistrians speak Russian primarily. Most people are also fluent in Romanian. So while Russia does not recognize Transnistria, it does have a Russian military presence and has a lot of support from Russia. Officially, Moldova recognizes Transnistria as a self-autonomous region of the country.

Having an area of approximately 1600 square miles, Transnistria is home to about 500,000 residents. The two largest cities in the area are the capital of Tiraspol and Bender, both within easy driving distance from Chisinau.

PRO TIP: Bring your passport with you. You’ll have to show it to enter the geographic borders of Transnistria.

Best Things to Do in Bender

Bender Fortress

The single most popular thing to do in Bender is visit the Bender Fortress, also known as the Tighina Fortress. This 15th Century fortress was strategically built on the right bank of the Dniester River. Originally constructed to defend Genovese sailors and traders who traveled along the river, it became an important base for the Ottoman so that by 1541, the eight-tower structure presently on the site was completed. The fortress has seen multiple Russian-Turkish wars. 

The facility has been undergoing reconstruction and updating for over a decade. Visitors today can climb up some of the towers, explore a small museum, and walk along the grounds. Various cultural events are held here, and in the summer, visitors enjoy concerts and movie events.

There is a small admission fee that must be paid in cash.

Alexander Nevsky Church

Located on the grounds next to the Bender Fortress is the Alexander Nevsky Church. Originally built in 1833, it features a Byzantine style. The church has been restored and features beautiful frescoes. 

PRO TIP: Women visiting any Russian Orthodox churches (including those listed here) must cover their hair. The churches have a spot near the front where you can borrow a scarf if you didn’t bring your own.

Triumphal Arch

This arch was built in 2008 to commemorate the 600th anniversary of the first time that the city of Bender was mentioned in written chronicles. A flower garden surrounds it.

Open Air Museum

Located in a small square, multiple forged sculptures re-tell the area’s history. This is best visited with a guide who can explain the symbolism and inform you about the story.

Square of the Leninist Komsomol

This square is a popular place for locals to hang out. The park has beautiful grounds and features benches where people can sit and chat. The statue of Lenin was erected in 1951. 

PRO TIP: Bring cash with you – neither credit cards nor ATMs work in Transnistria since they are not a legally recognized country.

Best Things to Do in Tiraspol

Tiraspol is easy to walk in a short period as many of the principal sights are located next to each other in the center. Here are the most important ones you’ll see:

House of Soviets

Built in the 1950s, the House of Soviets is one of the most impressive buildings in Tiraspol. The building serves as offices for local authorities. Built in the Stalinist Empire style, the building kept all its Soviet decorations and symbols. 

Catherine Park

Built in honor of Catherine the Great in 2018, the park has become the major place of relaxation in Tiraspol. Many decorative touches, from sculptures to the Russian coat of armor, serve as reminders of the time of Russia’s greatness. 

Alexander Suvorov Square and Monument

Located across the boulevard from Catherine Park, is the monument to the historical founder of Tiraspol. The square bears the founder’s name and was formed around 1798 when the city started. The monument was added in 1979. 

The Christmas Cathedral

This Russian Orthodox cathedral located in downtown Tiraspol is a few steps away from the Catherine Park. Painted in the Byzantine style, the cathedral was built at the turn of the century.

Eternal Flame

Part of the larger Memorial of Glory complex, the Eternal Flame is a remembrance for those who lost their lives in various wars. A former Soviet tank stands guard nearby.

Presidential Palace

The president and parliament operate from this building with an inspiring Lenin statue out front. While you can’t visit inside, the building is quite imposing from the outside and worthy of a photo.

Chitcani Monastery (Noul Meant Monastery)

This all-male monastery is home to several Orthodox churches, many featuring onion-shaped domes. The inside of the churches showcase beautiful frescoes. The monastery is worth visiting for its beautiful gardens and churches.

Best Souvenir from Transnistria

While many people like to buy items that are Soviet or Russian when they visit Transnistria, the best and most unique souvenir from Transnistria is their plastic currency, like a small, thin poker chip, about the size of a quarter. Go to any exchange office or banking center (even in shops) and ask to exchange some bills for plastic money. While Transnitrians do not like using this currency, it is a unique souvenir to remember your travel here. The coins come in 1, 3, 5, and 10 denominations. There is a minimal charge to obtain these. 

Final Thoughts on a Day Trip to Transnistria

While stories of going to Transnistria reference going back in time, they are overly dramatic. Considering that Transnistria wants to become a part of Russia, it is easy to understand its rebellious nature, including language and currency. The area has beautiful historical sites, like Bender Fort and the Monastery. If you’ve got some extra time while visiting Moldova or Ukraine, Transnistria is worth exploring.

Check out these other posts that might interest you:

• Free Things to Do in Sophia, Bulgaria

Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler