Genealogy is not just the study of the past, but also the construction of a bridge between the past and the present, illuminating the path to the future
Genealogical research conducted in Moldova represents a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of familial connections associated with the country's past. Each year, the interest in discovering the origins of one's lineage grows, with more and more people asking the question, "Who were my ancestors?" Many turn to our center to unveil the mysteries of their past. Moldavian history is closely intertwined with the cultures of the East and West, making genealogical research often lead to captivating discoveries.
Archival documents available for genealogical research in Moldova span from the 18th century to the present day. Family archives, church records, population censuses, and various other materials serve as valuable sources of information about the past of each family. Our specialists assist not only in reconstructing family trees but also in bringing to life the stories of ancestors by adding historical context.
Conducting genealogical research in Moldova demands not just meticulousness and attention to detail but also an appreciation for the intricacies of local history and culture. Every family possesses its own uniqueness, and genealogical investigations serve as a means to uphold the memory of a multitude of lineages, intricately intertwined with varying fates.
One of the most important documents for conducting genealogical research is the parish metric books, which were maintained in parish churches of various denominations, where rituals of baptism, marriage, and death were documented. In predominantly Orthodox Moldova, there was also a Jewish population. As part of the Russian Empire, censuses of the taxable population (Revision Lists) were conducted on the territory of Moldova, providing information about family composition, specifying the relationship of its members to the head of the household. Confession records, lists of parishioners noting their confessions, were also compiled in Orthodox churches.
In addition, our specialists actively research other valuable historical materials that help uncover the biographies of people who lived in past centuries. Important sources of information often include personal records from the 19th and 20th centuries related to education and employment (service records). Special attention is given to local censuses conducted in cities and rural areas (family lists). Useful sources include military registration documents, as well as descriptions and plans of real estate. Materials related to Jews who lived in Moldova have also been preserved. All these sources allow for a more detailed understanding of the daily lives of ancestors who left their mark in history.
Time inexorably moves forward, carrying with it the pages of the past and the mysterious destinies of ancestors. It is difficult to imagine, but behind each person in the family tree is an entire lived life. These individuals left their mark in time, filling their lives with events, joy and sorrow, happiness and sadness. And despite the fact that they have long departed from our world, their legacy, like an invisible thread, connects us to the past. The importance of preserving this history is undeniable. The European Genealogical Center provides an opportunity to delve into it. Remembering, preserving, and respecting history means not only delving into our past but also strengthening our connection to what makes us a unique part of the present.