Category Archives: Architecture

Old Communist Buildings Demolished Or Refurbished Standard

Communist apartment buildings which make up much if not most of Bucharest’s residential area are reaching their expiration date, making some of them unsafe for their inhabitants without immediate intervention or refurbishment. The question of demolition vs refurbishment has been asked numerous times with answers varying, depending on the location and proximity to expiration date. The more conveniant of the two options is clearly refurbishment as it should make the entire process easier both for owners as well as local authorities. The sad truth is that regardless of which option is easier or more efficient both owners and authorities choose…

Hanul lui Manuc Standard

Hanul lui Manuc is one of the oldest and most famous inns in Bucharest, Romania’s capital city. Built in the 19th century, this stunning restaurant was established by Manuc Bei, a wealthy and influential business man of the period whose rise and decline are closely tied to the history of the inn. The current building takes full advantage of its perfect location, right in the middle of Bucharest’s historic center, and thus houses more than the Manuc Bistro, also boasting several bars, restaurants and some brand name stores within its imposing premises. The beautiful courtyard and its numerous balconies are…

Hanul cu Tei Standard

One of the oldest inn’s in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, Hanul cu Tei has a rich history which blends stunning design with careful restoration and a predilection for cultural events that set it apart among other bars, pubs and restaurants. Hanul cu Tei or The Linden Tree Inn was built in 1833, by Anastasie Hagi Gheorghe Polizu and Stefan Popovici. It is located in the Lipscani area, the main historic quarter of Bucharest and a densely circulated area by tourists and locals looking for fun and a place to eat or drink. Initially the pub was named “The Inn of the…

Caru cu Bere Standard

Caru’ cu Bere is without doubt one of the most beautiful restaurants in Romania. Its wooden paneling, beautiful interior decoration and rich history as well as the world class cuisine and varied drinks menu make it a must see by both locals and tourists. The absolutely stunning building the restaurant is set in was built in 1898 by architects Zigfrid Z. Kofczinski and Al. Pesch. The building is constructed in the neo-gothic style with numerous other influences that make it such an incredibly popular historical monument, one of the symbols of Bucharest. The interior also boasts gothic and neo-gothic design…

Cafeneaua Veche Standard

Cafeneaua Veche which basically translates to “The Old Coffee House” is the oldest coffee shop in Bucharest, Romania’s capital city, dating back to 1781 and being first mentioned in official documents in 1812. It can be found in Saint Anton Square on Covaci Street, Nr 16, in Bucharest’s picturesque historical center. The first mention of this charming coffee house comes in 1781, when an Armenian called Strefan Altintop receives permission from the ruler of Wallachia, Alexandru Ipsilanti to build a coffee house in the immediate vicinity of Wallachia’s Royal Court, located in the northern part of Saint Anton Square, for…

The Best Architectural Attractions in Bucharest Standard

Bucharest isn’t just a city populated by gray buildings and offices, even if their number is in a continuous growth. Among all the dull buildings and communist offices that surround the People’s House, there are many hidden gems that were built hundreds of years ago. When you’re visiting the Capital of Romania you mustn’t miss out on the chance of discovering these beautiful architectural tourist attractions. The Romanian Athenaeum The Romanian Athenaeum is one of the most beautiful and emblematic buildings in Bucharest. This was built from the money donated by the residents of Bucharest to the national campaign “Donate…