Moldova commemorates Stephen the Great and Holy

Chisinau, 02 July /MOLDPRES/ – There take place more commemorative actions on Tuesday, 02 July, in Moldova, on occasion of 515th anniversary of passing away of Stephen the Great and Holy. Dozens of citizens and more officials have laid flowers at the monument of the great ruler in the centre of Chisinau municipality.

The event has been attended by the President of Moldova, Igor Dodon, Speaker of Parliament, Zinaida Greceanii, representatives of central and local public administration, MPs, representatives of diplomatic corps, public figures and common citizens.

President, Igor Dodon, has said that Stephen the Great and the Holy is an example, being one of Moldova's most reputed and valuable rulers, a distinguished personality of the nation. Also, the head of state has reminded that on 15 July Moldova will keep another important date – canonisation of Stephen the Great and the Holy.

"Stephen the Great and the Holy was the King of Moldavia and one of the most remarkable personalities in the history of Moldovan state. He was an outstanding diplomat and military chief, he loved the country and fought fiercely for its statehood. He was also a great defender and promoter of the Christian – Orthodox culture and religion. He is a good example for me in person but also for the vast majority of Moldovans. We owe to keep the patrimony left by Stephen the Great and transmit it to future generations. Just honouring the memory of our great ancestors, we can survive as a state. Moldova has a glorious past, but it also has a worthy future!" said Dodon.

In other order of ideas, Igor Dodon, has referred to the importance of regulating the Transnistrian conflict a.s.a.p.. "This issue must be solved so that the country is reunited. The Transnistrian conflict is a tragedy for the entire people of Moldova, no matter on which bank of the Dniester river he lives," said President.

Stephen the Third, Prince Stephen the Great, was the ruler of Moldavia for 47 years, in 1457 – 1504. He led 36 wars, aut of which only 02 lost and built 44 monasteries and churches both in Moldova and in Wallachia, Transylvania or Mount Athos. For these merits he was canonised by the Romanian Orthodox Church, named Stephen the Great and Holy, in June 1992. He died on 02 July 1504, being buried at the Putna Monastery.