Synopsis "A Description of Moldavia"
Written by one of the country's most renowned rulers, A Description of Moldavia provides unique insight into the geography, history, economy, ethnography, culture, and traditions of the principality. Born to a noble family, the author, Dimitrie Cantemir, ruled as Prince of Moldavia on two occasions (March-April 1693 and 1710-1711). He was a famed statesman, philosopher, and scholar. Cantemir wrote his Description of Moldavia (Descriptio Moldaviae) in 1716 at the request of the Royal Academy in Berlin, of which he was a member. Cantemir's manuscript included a map (reproduced in the present edition), the first real map of the country, containing geographical detail. The book provides a wealth of information about the country's natural resources, political organization, customs and traditions, history, religion, and language. This deluxe edition of this classic work marks the first time A Description of Moldavia has appeared in the English language. An introduction and notes by Dr. A.K. Brackob, a noted specialist on Romanian and East European history, enhance this valuable historical resource.
