Orthodox Churches in Bucharest
Which Ones Not to Miss
The city of Bucharest, located in Romania, is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Though there’s much to see and do in the city, it’s Bucharest’s towering Orthodox churches that attract the most attention, mainly due to their unique architecture. Below, we’ve listed the Orthodox churches in Bucharest that you simply must see if you’re lucky enough to visit the country.
Catedrala Patriahala (the Patriarchal Cathedral) – Resting atop a hill overlooking the southern part of the city, this 17th century cathedral is the headquarters for the Romanian Orthodox Church. Inside, visitors will find a fresco depicting both the blessed and the damned either going to heaven or hell.
Biserica Curtea Veche (the Old Court Church) – This is by far the most popular church in Bucharest, as it’s the oldest in the city. Built between 1545 and 1547 by Mircea Ciobanul, the church has been declared a historical monument and features several frescos from the reign of Serban Cantacuzino.
Antim Monastery – Founded by the bishop Antim Ivireanul, a famous writer and sculptor known for starting the first printing works in Romania, this church is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Built in the Brancovenesc style, it resembles a fortress, with the church in the middle of cells and a tower in each of the four corners.
Bucur Church – Though it’s not yet a known fact, it is believed that this is the second oldest church in Bucharest and was originally built out of wood by Bucur, the shepard who founded the town. The building was eventually torn down and rebuilt out of brick.
Domnita Balasa Church – Built in the neo-Roman architectural style, this church was founded by Bomnita Balasa, whose tomb can still be seen resting in the church. Featuring stained glass windows from Munich and a grand chandelier from Vienna, the church is both a historical and architectural monument.
St. Nicholas Church – Also known as “the Russian church,” this church was built in a typical Russian architectural style and stands out against all the others in Romania. Since 1933 it’s been the chapel of ease at the Bucharest University and features seven onion-shaped tower roofs that used to be gilded in gold before the rain washed it away.
The Old St. Spiridon Church – This church is small but very unique as it has several strange features unlike any other Orthodox church in Bucharest. It does not have any towers, which is very rare, and is the only Orthodox church in the world that has an inscription written in Greek and Arab instead of Slavonic.
Tags: Bucharest
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