When in Bucharest
Bucharest is a pale reflection of the beautiful, pre World War II city that was known as the Paris of the East. Bombing, earthquakes and the communist rule of Ceausescu have done little for the city, but there are still older parts that are beguiling, with plenty of wondrous architecture throughout, both old and new.
Ceausescu's Palatul Parlamentului, or Parliament Palace, is a key stop for any visitor. The exterior was finished in 1984, but upon the leader's death in 1989, just three rooms had been finished. Work continues to this day on a building that is generally thought to have been inspired by North Korean architecture. Visitors get to see ten sumptuous rooms on the regular 45-minute English tours. Originally designed as the headquarters for the Communist Party, the country's parliament not sits here.
Revolution Square, where Ceausescu's last stand took place in 1989, is a momentous arena. Faced with around 80,000 protestors, he attempted to leave the country via a helicopter from the Central Committee building but was forced to land inside Romania's border ? with a trial and death by firing squad following.
The city's old town is a nice place in which to forget the troubles of communism. A wonderful array of narrow streets and buildings many centuries old make for a pleasant couple of hours' pottering around and there are plenty of nice cafes to try too.
Bucharest has its fair share of fine churches and the Russian-style St Nicholas Students? Church is one of the top attractions. Other leading lights include the Patriarchal Cathedral and the Stavropoleos Church. Religion is alive and well in Romania and the healing powers of icons are well respected in the country.
Museum lovers will also find much to enjoy here, and art fans will be especially happy. The Romanian Peasant Museum is well worth a look, especially if you wish to learn more about peasant art and the way it influenced a number of masters, including Brancusi. The National Art Museum is another good stop for the art fanatic, while those who just can't get enough of their brushwork should try visiting the former home turned museum of painter Theodor Aman.
The city has two major airports, the Henri Coanda International Airport and the Aurel Vlaicu International Airport. The latter mainly caters for regional and charter flights. Both are just a short taxi ride in to town.
Bucharest is also the hub for the country's extensive railway network. The city's main North Station has connections to all over the country as well as regular trains to Sofia, Vienna, Budapest and Prague.
Once ensconced in the city, visitors will find moving around easiest on Bucharest's fine metro system. Trams, trolleybuses, buses and light rail options are available to those keen to avoid heading underground.
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Introduction
