Day 2: Orheiul Vechi - a 40 thousand year-old natural amphitheater
The day will begin with the visit of “Arta Rustica” handicraft complex in Clisova Noua village. The handmade carpets in Clisova Noua are of amazing interest and beauty. Wowen wool Moldovan carpets have been included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage. The creation of only one canvas takes several months. Every carpet is a work of art. The craftsmen of Clisova Noua village put their whole soul and free time into their craft. They restore unique carpets according to old photographs. They uses only natural materials and authentic technique during the weaving process.
Next, you will set off on a time travel to Orheiul Vechi (Old Orhei) to see a natural amphitheater revealing a territory which was first inhabited 40 000 years ago. The Cultural, Natural and Landscape Reserve Orheiul Vechi includes a series of historical and cultural monuments as well as natural landscapes in the gorge of the Raut River. Ancient fortifications, cave monasteries, monks and hermits – here you can follow the history of this region. The originality of Orheiul Vechi landscape is due to the gorge of the Raut River, dug under the form of a canyon in the limestone layers of the former Sarmatian Sea, about 14 million years ago.
After visiting Orheiul Vechi, you will travel to Butuceni village where at a local guesthouse you will have a Moldovan traditional lunch accompanied by folk music played live by a local ensemble.
After lunch, you will experience the Moldovan winter during the sledge ride through Butuceni village.
During dinner, you will be enveloped in the traditional atmosphere, created by the traditional dishes and the traditional live music show provided by the folk ensemble.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Arta Rustica Handicraft Complex,
Cultural, Natural and Landscape Reserve Orheiul Vechi