Discover Dubasari: Rivers, Forests and Village Culture

In Ustia, the confluence of two rivers, ancient forests and a layered village history shape the character of the place. Nature and culture can be discovered here through specific places, names and festivals.

Rivers, Forests and La Humărie

Ustia lies at the confluence of the Răut and Nistru rivers. This striking geographical point is set within varied surroundings of lakes, hills and forests. To understand the natural character of the place, you can explore the river landscape and wooded surroundings as distinct yet equally defining features.

Ustia is surrounded by ancient forests, including Stânca, Mohnata and Chișc. These named forests provide specific reference points in the landscape; lakes and hills add to the picture of the surrounding area. Agriculture and fishing have long been among the activities of the local population and form another part of life here.

Among the sights in Dubăsari District that visitors can see is La Humărie in Ustia, a 64-hectare geopalaeontological natural monument. The stated area gives a sense of the scale of this natural monument. If you are planning a visit, check access conditions in advance.

A regional tourism plan from 2017 describes the Mașcăuți–Ustia section, which runs through the Răut Gorge to where the Răut flows into the Nistru. The same plan mentions the intrazonal route “Chișinău – Orhei Vechi – Ustia,” which passes through Ustia. These route references add a broader geographical perspective to the specific natural sites; they are details from the 2017 plan.

History and Village Life

The former Church of St. George in Ustia was consecrated on 23 April 1862. It is listed as a national architectural monument in the Register of State-Protected Monuments of the Republic of Moldova; it was later demolished. The church thus tells of an important part of the village’s history, even though the historic building no longer exists.

A local legend explains the name Ustia through the story of Ustina. According to the tale, she fled with Gheorghe and settled where two lakes meet. The legend links the origin of the place name to a landscape scene, adding a traditional story to the geographical reference points.

Festivals and Religious Life

On 6 May, Ustia celebrates its village festival in honour of Saint George. The local events programme also includes a Christmas carol festival in the church, the October festival “Toamna de Aur” and “Din fir de mărțișor,” a tribute to women. These festivals highlight different aspects of local cultural life.

One specific historical example is the traditional Orthodox festival “Un trandafir, o lumânare pentru Sfântul Ștefan cel Mare,” held in Ustia on 10 July 2022. The Sunday service at the St. George Parish begins at 09:00; all worshippers are welcome to attend. As service times may change, confirm the time before your visit.

Find the Right Holiday Apartment for Your Trip

When looking for a holiday apartment in Dubasari, you can first consider which themes will shape your trip: the river landscape and forests, La Humărie, the history of the former church or local festivals. For people travelling together, these themes offer different interests to weigh up when planning the trip.

For the main travel overview: Dubasari.