Parliament Building, Chisinau

The Parliament Building is the seat of Moldova’s national legislature and a notable example of Soviet-era civic architecture. Designed by architects Alexandru Cerdanțev and Grigore Bosenco, the project was developed in the 1970s, with the main construction generally dated to 1976–1979. It originally housed the Central Committee of the Communist Party of the Moldavian SSR, before becoming the home of Parliament.

Its broad, slightly curved form is often compared to an open book. The reinforced-concrete structure is faced with pink granite and marble, while four tall vertical columns frame the central entrance. The landscaped area in front includes trimmed shrubs spelling “MOLDOVA.” In 2016, a brass state coat of arms weighing more than 600 kilograms was installed on the façade.

The building was heavily damaged during the political unrest of April 2009 and underwent extensive reconstruction before Parliament returned in 2014. Inside are the main plenary chamber, Europa Hall and the Parliament Museum, displaying historical documents, photographs and copies of important state records, including the Declaration of Independence. Guided visits can include the museum and plenary hall.