Cotroceni National Museum, an impressive architecture

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Cotroceni National Museum is one of the most important museums in Bucharest, located inside Cotroceni Palace; there you can visit areas from the former convent and Royal Palace in Cotroceni, where King Ferdinand and Queen Maria lived and also the ancient European decorative art collections.

The origins of the palace date back to the second half of the 17th century, when the present structure was erected by order of Serban Cantacuzino. The ruler of Walachia erected here both a monastery and a Baroque palace. In 1852, Barbu Dimitire Stirbei, began the first major modernizing process of the complex by adding an elegant garden. Up to 1895 the palace served as the official residence for different rulers. In 1895, under the first Romanian king, Carol I, Cotroceni Royal Palace was built on the ruins of the old medieval court. The design of the palace was made by the chief architect of the Romanian royal family, the famous French architect Paul Gottereau. After the Great Union, Romanian architect Grigore Cerchez carried out extensive works in the palace.

The decline of the entire complex begins in 1947 when King Michael is forced by the communists to abdicate. The palace is successively robbed and the royal libraries, as well as rare pieces of furniture, are intentionally destroyed. The deterioration process culminates in 1977 when a powerful earthquake hit Romania. President Ceausescu decides to restore the palace as his secret plan was to transform the complex into a luxurious hotel. He also makes the unwisely decision of demolishing the 300 year old medieval church just because, it spoiled the view.

Since 1991, the old wing of Cotroceni was turned into a museum which was structured to offer a clear and detailed image of the turbulent history.

Cotroceni is the only official residence in Romania that has been used for over 4 centuries. The same year, Cotroceni National Museum has joined ICOM – Conseil International des Musées, and in 1994, received the award: European Museum of the Year Award.

Visits to the Cotroceni National Museum are only available in groups (max 15 people per tour) with a guided tour in Romanian, English, French or Italian languages.

Opening Hours:  Tuesday to Sunday

Museum: 09:30 – 17:30

 

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