Art & music · 40 of the best in Bucharest
Brâncovenesc: Romania’s own Renaissance
The back story
Photo Credit
Image courtesy of © Nickispeaki · CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia CommonsAbout Brâncovenesc: Romania’s own Renaissance
Around 1700, under Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, Wallachia developed its own architectural style, mixing Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian Renaissance influences: elegant arcaded porches, finely carved stone and richly painted interiors. It is called the Brâncovenesc style.
Prince Brâncoveanu
Constantin Brâncoveanu ruled Wallachia from 1688 to 1714, a wealthy, cultivated prince who built palaces and monasteries across the country.
The style
Brâncovenesc buildings have open porches with carved stone columns and arches, floral carvings in stone and wood, and walls covered with frescoes.
The Brâncovenesc style is Romania’s own answer to the Renaissance.
Where to see it
In Bucharest, Stavropoleos Monastery, built in 1724, is a jewel of the style. Just outside the city, Mogoșoaia Palace, built by Brâncoveanu himself, is its finest secular example.
Our advice: visit Stavropoleos in the Old Town, then take a half-day trip to Mogoșoaia Palace and its gardens.
Why it's on our list
- Prince Brâncoveanu
- Carved porches and painted walls
- Where to see it
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Brâncovenesc: Romania’s own Renaissance before you go.