Every country boasts certain unofficial symbols that represent its identity, such as the Eiffel Tower symbolizing France, the kimono representing Japan, wooden shoes for the Netherlands, the kilt signifying Scotland, and Italy’s association with pizza and Greece characterized by olives and deities.

In the case of Moldova, the country’s symbols include the renowned “alțiță” embroidered shirt, the rose, the white stork, and the Tree of Life. This symbol has ancient roots dating back to the Getae-Dacians, who used it on their weapons, helmets, and shields. The Tree of Life held unique symbolism, offering protection from dangers and a sense of direct connection to the supreme divinity.

Despite being primarily an Orthodox country, the Tree of Life remains a significant part of the people’s daily life, often used in funeral rituals.

The creation of the brand and logo:

On November 20, 2014, at the Museum of Ethnography and Natural History, the Tourism Agency of the Republic of Moldova unveiled a new brand for the country’s tourism sector. Dubbed the “Tree of Life” by its creators, the logo features a stylized tree with the initials “M” at its base and a symbolic rose at the top. Accompanying the logo is the tourist slogan “Discover the routes of life,” encouraging tourists to explore new paths through hospitality, history, wine, gastronomy, and Moldovan traditions.

The Tree of Life is described as a complex symbol of national culture, chosen to represent the values and specifics of tourism in Moldova. Each branch end represents a specific symbol: the letter M symbolizes Moldova’s fertile soil, the heart represents hospitality, the glass represents the culture and traditions of winemaking, and the cross is a symbol of religious culture. The vertical lines depict the roads to be discovered in the country. The branches represent the natural development of the national tourism brand “Tree of Life,” incorporating elements reflecting the significance of tourism and winemaking, complemented by symbols from the other five strategic sectors of the national economy: light industry, information technology, automotive and electronics industry, infrastructure, and energy.

Interestingly, the tourist brand has evolved into the national brand of the country, gaining representation at various international exhibitions and events.