Iași: The independence square and Râpa Galbenă

The urban adventure in Iași continues

After visiting Bojdeuca “Ion Creangă” because I still have same day light left for today, I continue the stroll on Iași streets and a I am going I find two other interesting points of attractions that deserve to be talked about and included on the list of things to see in the city of Iași.

Arriving in the Independence Square

The first one is a gigantic statue that I notice from for in the distance as its siluet is highlighted by the strong sunset light, so because I am curious to see what’s this shape representing, I am walking towards it. I arrive in the Independence Square, where the monument is located and here I discover that the sculpture is depicting a women who symbolizes the idea of independence. What impresses me the most is probably the greatness of this statue, the bronze monument having a total height of 17 meters.

About the statue of Independence: why it was created for the public?

“The statue of Independence” was created to celebrated the 100th anniversary of the proclamation of Romania’s independence. Besides the image of a glorious women, the base of the statue also includes a frieze with reliefs showcasing historical scenes inspired by the war of Independence such as the preparation of war, the battles with the Turks, crossing the Danube, proclaiming the independence and the declaration of independence read at that time by Mihail Kogalniceanu.

On the front side of the base is also written “Independence is the sum of our historical life”, a sentence by Mihai Eminescu, our Romanian great poet.

Râpa Galbenă with the Espanada Elisabeta

In the warm sunset light I keep walking on the streets of Iași to reach another place called „Râpa Galbenă” or “Espanada Elisabeta”, translated into English as “The Yellow Rovine”. Here I discover a beautiful construction that kind of remembers me of a medieval citadel or fortress.

Although the aspect of the edifice appears new, actually, the project “Espanada Elisabeta” is dating back to the end of the 19th century when the construction started during the term of the mayor Nicolae Gane. The aim of the project located at the bottom of Coupou Hill was to connect the low area of the Railway Station with the upper city, a fact that would contribute to the stabilisation of the clayey ground as well.

The historical monument is composed of a semi-circular body, having two massive stairways on either side, each featuring along three balconies on which people can stand to admire the panorama over the city of Iași. Speaking of that, indeed, from here are opening up beautiful views over the city which are even more wonderful in the affectionated light of the sunset when a cloudy sky is filled with warm colors.

If you are travelling to Iași, this attraction should be included on your list of places to visit in Iași, especially if you are a fan of wide panoramas and impressive cityscapes. Being a public space, „Râpa Galbenă” is, of course, free of charge and can be pass through at any time of the day.

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