Leova
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
“Blooming marrows, it’s a scorcher in Leova! The mercury’s at 35.1°C but feels like 34.61°C. As if gnomes can tell the difference! Clear sky overhead, not a cloud in sight, just like my polished dome. Humidity? A mere 29%. I’m drier than a desert cactus at a sandpaper convention. Wind’s whistling at 10.24 m/s. Good job I’m heavy set. At this rate, I could be the first gnome astronaut. Who needs rockets when you’ve got Leova’s gusts?”
Gnome-ward Bound: Moldova Mania!
Sure, you’re thinking, “Oliver, that’s just a short stroll for a gnome like you,” but let me tell you, every step holds a story, every mile a memory. And boy, did I cross a border! As soon as I stepped foot in Moldova, I found myself surrounded by a different language, culture, and scenery. Gone was the Romanian I had picked up, replaced swiftly by Moldovan. But fret not, for I am a quick learner!
On my way, I encountered a peculiar sight that made me pause and marvel. A group of local children were playing a game of “ţurca”, a traditional Moldovan sport, around the most magnificent, ancient tree I’ve ever laid my gnome eyes on. The laughter, the energy, and the spirit of the game were a sight to behold. It reminded me of a local saying, “Sănătatea-i mai bună decât toate“, which translates to “Health is better than wealth”. A small reminder to cherish the simple joys of life.
Now, let’s crunch some numbers. This gnome has been on the road for a whopping 216 days and has traversed a grand total of 6411.9 kilometers. In my journey, I’ve left my footprints in the towns of Matca, Matca again (yes, it was so good I had to visit twice), Berești, and now, Leova.
“Dar, Oliver, de ce te-ai oprit în Leova?” you ask. Why, that translates to “But Oliver, why did you stop in Leova?” Well, my dear friends, because adventure beckons and a gnome must answer!
Here’s a local song that’s been stuck in my head – “De ce plâng chitarele“, or “Why are the guitars crying”. It’s a beautiful, soulful song that captures the spirit of Moldova.
And so, with a new song in my heart and a new spring in my step, I stride forward. Until next time, stay curious, stay adventurous, and remember – every step holds a story. La revedere!
Wandering Leova’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Palette Ponderings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Leova.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Leova: Manuc’s Mansion & Stefan’s Symphony!
Firstly, the city is home to Manuc Bei Mansion, a historical monument that once hosted Manuc Bei, a key figure in Moldova’s history. It’s a grand spectacle of architecture, reflecting the beauty of Moldova’s traditional designs. In the local tongue, it’s called “Conacul lui Manuc Bei”, meaning Manuc Bei’s Mansion.
Secondly, Leova’s art scene is greatly influenced by Stefan Neaga, a renowned composer and a son of its soil. His music, like the song “Sârba lui Stefan” (Stefan’s Sirba), is deeply rooted in Moldovan traditions and resonates on the city’s streets.
Leova is truly a city where history and culture blend harmoniously. As a local saying goes, “Trebuie să cunoști trecutul pentru a înțelege prezentul” – “You need to know the past to understand the present.”
Cheesy ‘Noroc’ Nosh
In the heart of Leova, the aroma of a traditional dish called Plăcintă fills the air. Here’s how to make it:
Take 500g of brânză de vaci (cottage cheese), “salut” (hello) to the local dairy. Mix it with 2 ouă (eggs), a pinch of sare (salt), and a touch of zahăr (sugar). Now, onto the dough. Mix 500g of făină (flour) with 200ml apă (water), a pinch of salt, and knead until it becomes one big “noroc” (good luck) ball.
Roll the dough thin, add the cheese mixture, fold, and then “gata” (ready) for the oven. Bake until golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy the taste of Moldova.
“Mâncarea buna vine din suflet” – Good food comes from the heart.
Leova’s Lilliputian Wonders
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 