Bernardazzi Architecture Walking Tour (Self Guided), Chisinau

Talented people are often able to leave their mark in the hearts of the posterity long after they are gone. Centuries fly but the power of the beauty persists, especially if set in the stones of the buildings designed by distinguished architects. Moldova's capital is blessed in this respect as the place associated with Alexander Bernardazzi, a Russian architect of Swiss-Italian descent who served as the chief architect of Chisinau from 1856 to 1878.

His work marked the dawn of a new architectural era in the city and largely transfigured its appearance. During his time in Moldova Bernardazzi designed a total of 50 buildings, a good number of which, sadly, were destroyed during World War II. But those which have survived, continue to this day to fill the hearts of the onlookers with admiration and gratitude. Here are just some of them:

The City Hall (formerly the City Duma) – originally constructed in 1901, rebuilt in 1945–1948; home to Chisinau's municipal administration since 1951.

The regional courthouse – presently known as the Railway Administration Building; dated from the 1880s.

The St. Panteleimon Church – a late 19th century edifice of Medieval Greek style.

St. Teodora de la Sihla Church – otherwise known as the chapel of the no. 2 gymnasium for girls, built in 1895.

The Water Tower – currently home to the Historical Museum of Chisinau.

Bernardazzi's love of Chisinau extended into the afterlife as he stated in his will the wish to be buried here.

This self-guided walking tour offers a unique opportunity to visit some of the beautiful creations of Alexander Bernardazzi in Chisinau still in place – a stone symphony bequeathed to the locals and guests of the city!