Decorated with a series of beautiful frescoes and icons, this 17th-century cathedral dominates an architecturally impressive complex of chapels and palaces.
The Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral (Catedrala PatriarhalădinBucurești) is a wonderful example of Brâncovenesc architecture. It’s also an important place of worship that shelters a magnificent collection of religious art. The Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral was established in the 1650s under the direction of Constantin Şerban Basarad, Prince of Wallachia. It stands on Metropolitanate Hill, a treasure trove of historic and religious buildings.
The cathedral became part of local lore in 1862 when it was the site of the assassination of Barbu Catargiu, Romania’s first prime minister. Catargiu was shot twice as he passed in front of the cathedral in an open carriage.
Stroll around the cathedral’s exterior and admire its Brâncovenesc design. Originating in Romania in the late 17th century, this architectural style blends Baroque, Byzantine, Ottoman and Renaissance features. Crowning the roof are three domes and four towers, each topped with a simple cross. Appreciate the arcaded entrance adorned with mosaics of Jesus and well-known saints.
Inside, a wealth of Byzantine-style frescoes beautify the archways of the nave. These frescoes portray Biblical scenes and were added in the 1930s by national painter Dimitrie Belizarie. Marvel at the gleaming gilded iconostasis and look up at a copula painted with a Madonna and child. Go to the vestibule to see the tombs of famous patriarchs such as Miron Cristea and Nicodim Munteanu.
The cathedral is a focal point of Metropolitanate Hill, which originated as a walled monastic complex. Today, it’s a center for Romanian Orthodoxy and home to other significant buildings. Among these are a 17th-century bell tower, the Patriarchal Palace and the Chapel of the Patriarchal Palace. Take a moment to gaze at the imposing neoclassic façade of the Patriarchal Palace.
Get to the cathedral and Metropolitanate Hill easily via public buses, trams and the metro. The closest metro station is Piaţa Unirii 1. The historic Lipscani neighborhood is less than a 20-minute walk away.
Admission to the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral is free and it’s open daily. Dress conservatively and be respectful of worshippers in this active cathedral.
