We often hear talks about Moldova, mostly sad issues about poverty, unemployment, administrative and social problems, etc. We tend to forget about the beauty of the places, as well as their rich history, so today we were thinking we might say a few words about Vaslui.
Vaslui was first attested in a 1375 document, but it is thought to have been founded by the Byzantines. In fact, the first post-Byzantine school is founded here in the 15th century. The city enjoyed unprecedented privileges in the time of Stephen the Great. He rebuilt the Royal Court here and in 1491, he offered 17 villages to the citadel of Vaslui. He also has an ash-tree and 10 oak-trees planted in the new soil. Legend has it, the herald of Moldova would later be engraved in the wood of these trees.
After the ruler’s death, Vaslui succumbs to anonymity, but remains an important point. During the romantic age, its former glory is remembered in Vasile Alecsandri’s poem, “Penes Curcanul”.
In the communist era, after 1960, Vaslui undergoes a period of accelerated industrialisation. The chemical, textile, food and construction industry develop, but most of the plants and factories would be closed after the 1989 Revolution, as a result of the privatisation policy.
Although it is not what you would call a “rich” city, Vaslui today retains its historical and cultural importance and remains a tourist destination. The Stephen the Great County Museum, the Mavrocordat Palace, as well as the network of churches and monasteries must be checked on the “places to visit” list. As for natural tourist destinations, on Barlad River, you can visit the beautiful Balteni Natural Reservation, just 10 km north-west of town.
It is worth enjoying all the independence afforded by a car. You can have one from Vaslui car rental.