Bucharest Following – Calea Victoriei

Calea Victoriei is Bucharest’s oldest and most charming street. Built in 1692 to link the Old Princely Court to Mogosoaia Palace, it was initially paved with oak beams. The street became Calea Victoriei in 1878, after the Romanian Independence War. Between the two world wars, Calea Victoriei developed into one of the most fashionable streets in the city.

Stroll along this street from Piata Victoriei (Victory Square) to Piata Natiunilor Unite (United Nations Square) to discover some of the most beautiful buildings in the city, like the Cantacuzino’s Palace, the historical Revolution Square, the Military Club, the CEC Bank Headquarters and the National History Museum.

The work of French architect Albert Galleron, who also designed the National Bank of Romania, the Athenaeum was finished in 1888, financed almost entirely from donations. One of the most preeminent public fundraising campaigns in Romania, the “Give a penny for the Athenaeum” saved the project after the original patrons ran out of funds. With its high dome and Doric columns, the Athenaeum resembles an ancient temple. It is worldwide known for its outstanding acoustics. It is Bucharest’s most prestigious Concert Hall and home of the Romanian George Enescu Philharmonic.

Opened in 1879, this lovely restaurant and beer house soon became one of the most popular meeting places for writers and poets in Bucharest who would gather to discuss matters of their time. Its neo-Gothic architectural style is reflected in the facades and the interior decorations.