On 20 March 2026, the National Library of the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with the Embassy of France in the Republic of Moldova, inaugurated the thematic exhibition “Discovering France!”, organised on the occasion of the International Day of Francophonie.

The event brought together diplomats, members of the academic community, students, and educators, offering visitors an immersive journey through French culture and civilization. Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Dominique Waag, Ambassador of France to the Republic of Moldova, and Elena Prus, PhD, Professor, and Corresponding Member of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova.

The exhibition features over 300 documents from the library’s collections, organised into ten thematic sections that highlight the diversity and richness of French heritage—from history, traditions and art to literature and the broader Francophone world. A notable highlight is the section dedicated to rare and old books, showcasing the value of preserved editorial heritage.

Particularly appreciated by visitors are the sections titled “Civilization and Culture of France,” “France of Traditions – A Cultural Journey from Normandy to Provence,” “Culture without Borders: France – Republic of Moldova,” “French Art: From Gothic to Modernism,” “The Cultural Charm of France – Music, Cinema, Theatre, Fashion, Culinary Arts,” “Francophonie: Cultural Heritage and International Influence,” and “French Literary Worlds: From the Middle Ages to the 20th–21st Centuries.”

The artistic programme added a refined and emotional dimension to the event. Students from the Gheorghe Asachi Romanian-French Theoretical High School delivered recitations from the works of renowned French authors, including Victor Hugo, and captivated the audience with a musical performance marked by sensitivity and enthusiasm.

The exhibition “Discovering France!” offers visitors a multifaceted perspective on France—from its cultural and artistic heritage to the dynamics of contemporary society—while fostering intercultural dialogue and promoting the values of Francophonie.

The exhibition is open to the public from 20 March to 30 May 2026 in the exhibition space on the ground floor of the main building of the National Library of Moldova  (31 August 1989 Street, no. 78, Chișinău).

The Ambassador of France to the Republic of Moldova, Her Excellency Mrs. Dominique Waag, offered the Library a precious donation – luxury editions, large-format books in the field of French and universal culture and civilization. Soon, the volumes will enter the Library’s collections, being available to visitors.

As one of the key events dedicated to Francophonie in Moldova in 2026, “Discovering France!” reaffirms France’s significant contribution to the development of European and global culture, while strengthening cultural ties between France and the Republic of Moldova.

Text by: Elina Bolgarina, Head of Section, National Library of the Republic of Moldova

Translated by: Mariana Kiriakov, main specialist, National Library of the Republic of Moldova

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