Neo-Romanian architecture, also known as Romanian National Style and Romanian Revival, appeared in the late 19th century in Romanian Art Nouveau as a reaction to French Classicism. It aimed to create a new and specific architectural style for Romania and emerged after the Brâncovenesc style which was a fusion of Ottoman and Byzantine architectures mixed with the ethnographic elements of Romania. In the traditional sense, Romanian architecture was influenced greatly by the neighboring countries like Türkiye, Hungary, and Greece but retained its own unique identity as well.
The famous Romanian architect Ion Mincu was the leading figure of the movement, followed by names like Cristofi Cerchez, and Nicolae Ghica-Budeşti. They combined elements from neighboring countries’ architectures with Romanian motifs. The neo-Romanian architectural form presents a detailed but elegant appearance. Roofed verandas, minaret-like structures, carved stone columns, domes, pointed arches balconies, carved wood doors, and pointed window frames are some of the typical elements of the neo-Romanian style. The neo-Romanian architectural style was largely used for state-funded public programs aiming to create an image of national identity.
Vila Augustin Opran
Vila Augustin Opran was designed by Virginia Andreescu-Haret, the first woman who graduated with a degree in architecture in Romania. It was built in 1928.
Casa Doina Restaurant
The historical Casa Doina Restaurant was opened in 1892. It was designed by Ion Mincu, one of the leading figures of the neo-Romanian architectural movement. The building was a meeting place for business people or politicians. On the upper part of the facade, above the arches, there are names of famous Romanian vineyards added by Mincu. Today it continues to be a high-end restaurant.
Nicolae Minovici Folk Art Museum
The Museum was built for Dr. Nicolae Minovici, who was a good friend of the architect Cristofi Cerchez. Minovici convinced Cerchez to have him design his house in a Neo-Romanian style rather than the French Neoclassical. In time, it has evolved into Bucharest’s first folk museum. The museum is listed as a historic monument by Romania’s Ministry of Culture and Religious Affairs
Lahoravi House
Completed in 1890, Lahoravi House is one of the most famous works of Mincu. It is also one of the first examples of neo-Romanian style. The facade of the residential building features intricate woodcarvings, frescoes, and ornate details influenced by Romanian decorative elements.
Stavropoleos Monastery
Stavropoleos Monastery was built in 1724 but over the years it has received considerable damage due to various reasons. It was reconstructed by Ion Mincu. The monastery was built in the Brâncovenesc style.
Guserescu House
Guserescu House was designed for the lawyer Octav Guserescu by the architect Statie Ciortan in 1920.
