During my wanderings through the vibrant streets of Chișinău, surrounded by the lively atmosphere of a city rich in culture and history, I found myself in front of the impressive City Hall. A masterpiece in the Italian Gothic style, this building stands proudly in the heart of the Moldovan capital, telling a story of destruction and rebirth embedded deep within its walls.
Built in 1901, originally as a seat for the City Duma, the town hall experienced the turmoil of World War II, which almost reduced it to rubble. But like a phoenix rising from the ashes, the town hall was rebuilt after the war, a testament to indomitability and reconstruction, guided by surviving images and building plans. Looking at this majestic building, one cannot help but marvel at the deep scars it has endured while admiring its regained splendor.
Directly at the town hall there is a signpost showing the distances to Chișinău's twin cities, a small but meaningful detail that symbolizes solidarity and friendship across borders. Stating that Odessa is only 184 kilometers away is a reminder of the close interconnectedness of the regions and the common stories they share.