WOODEN CHURCH OF TÎRNOVA

The small village of Tîrnova (sometimes spelled Târnova) is said to have been founded in the 14th century. At the entrance of the town you can see the small church of the Holy Archangel Michael, which is old. It is typical of Moldavian peasant architecture and was built in 1775. It is resistant thanks to the wooden struts that support it from all sides. Its plan is elongated with white facades and a sky-blue base. Its volumetry is structured and two crosses dominate the ridge of the roof which is metallic. Characteristic of popular architecture, we find the stone bench as a constructive element. The inhabitants of the village take care of it as best they can, proud to consider this monument as a small treasure of their heritage. The church is surrounded by a small fenced garden including a cemetery. Around it, you can see some traditional houses. A stone cross is visible, surmounted by a silver-coloured metal marquee. At the other end of the garden, a blue portal with a red roof can be seen, from which the church bells hang.

In the village you can also see another church, that of the Dormition-de-la-Mère-de-Dieu, which was built a little later. It is recognizable by its typical 19th century architecture, its sand colour, its silver roof and bell tower. It is surrounded by a wooded garden. The place is peaceful and reflects the soothing atmosphere of the Moldavian countryside.