The Transition from Wooden Gates to Metal Gates in the Codrii Orheiului Area

Abstract

This article analyzes the evolution of household gates in the ethnographic area of the Codrii Orheiului, a region located in central part of the Republic of Moldova. The study highlights the close relationship between the natural environment, local building materials, and vernacular architecture, emphasizing the transformations that occurred in the second half of the 20th century. Initially, gates had simple forms, made of woven twigs, serving a practical function in delimiting the household. With the development of local crafts, these were replaced by massive wooden gates made of oak or other hardwood species, assembled in a “Z”– type structural frame for greater strength. At the same time, the use of stone-especially Sarmatian limestone from the Nistru and Răut river areas-led to the appearance of carved gate pillars and stone fences. Villages such as Brănești, Morovaia, and Furceni became important centers of stone craftsmanship, and local artisans contributed to the formation of a distinct regional style. The wood – stone combination became emblematic of the architectural identity of the area. Gradually, metal gates almost completely replaced the traditional wooden models, becoming a symbol of rural modernization. Nevertheless, the traditional wood–stone combination remains a defining expression of vernacular architecture in the Codrii Orheiului, illustrating the balance between functionality, aesthetics, and adaptation to the hilly landscape.