Romanian Athenaeum – art in Bucharest

Discover the Romanian Athenaeum, the neoclassical jewel of Bucharest, with impeccable acoustics and an impressive dome that hosts the finest concerts and the famous «George Enescu» Festival. A short guide takes you through its fascinating history, the round frieze in the atrium, the elegant gardens and the easy ways to enter directly into the heart of the city.

Romanian Athenaeum – symbol of Romanian culture and music

The Ateneul Român is a true pearl of Bucharest and one of the most beautiful places in Europe dedicated to classical music. This neoclassical building, with an impressive dome and richly decorated interior, is a symbol of Romania’s national pride. Every concert at the Ateneo is a special experience: the excellent acoustics, the elegant atmosphere and the extraordinary energy of the artists create an unforgettable impression.

What events take place at the Romanian Athenaeum?

The Romanian Athenaeum is a true jewel of neoclassical architecture and a center of Bucharest’s cultural life. Its immense circular dome, reminiscent of the Pantheon in Rome, hosts classical music concerts, festivals, choral recitals and artistic events of the highest level. Every year the «George Enescu» Festival takes place here, attracting music lovers from all over the world.

How was the Romanian University born?

The idea of ​​creating a «temple of arts and sciences» arose within the Romanian Athenaeum association in the second half of the 19th century. The construction was largely financed by public fundraising under the motto «Give a lion to the University», which still remains a symbol of civic patronage today. The project was carried out by the French architect Albert Gallen, who combined a classic Ionic portico with a monumental dome. The building was inaugurated in 1888, and subsequent restorations have restored its splendor and remarkable acoustics.

What does the famous rotunda with the painting in the foyer represent and how is it «read»?

The panoramic frieze surrounding the rotunda briefly tells the history of Romania: from the ancient Dacians and the Roman conquest, through the medieval voivodeships, up to the unifications of the 19th and 20th centuries. Follow it clockwise: the scenes are arranged according to a narrative in which we recognize, among others, Trajan and Decebalus, Michael the Brave, the moment of the union of Moldavia with Wallachia and the Great Union in 1918. Look for coats of arms, costumes and flags: they are «clues» that help place the episodes in time. The details of the characters and gestures are intentional: they guide the gaze as in an illustrated chronicle.

What is in the garden and around the University?

In front of the building there is a small square with symmetrical paths, low hedges and benches, ideal for a short stop before the concert. Among the green spaces there are monuments and busts of some personalities of Romanian culture, and in the evening the lighting highlights the colonnade and the dome. Within walking distance is Calea Victoriei, with elegant cafes, the Art Museum (formerly the Royal Palace) and the University Library, one of the areas with the highest density of attractions in Bucharest. In season, the square in front of the University comes alive with music and outdoor events.

How do you get to the Romanian University?

The University is located right in the heart of Bucharest, in Calea Victoriei, a few minutes from Revolution Square. The most convenient way to get there is rent a carbecause it allows you not only to save time, but also to plan your route according to your preferences. You can park right in front of the University, in the large car park on George Enescu Square.

Using the Dexcar.ro offer, you can easily rent a car without unnecessary formalities and then park it in one of the car parks near Calea Victoriei. If you are interested, contact us!

Visit program of the Romanian University

The Romanian Athenaeum can be visited by tourists outside concert and rehearsal times. The updated visit program is published in the official calendar, updated monthly. You can find detailed information about the program at the official website of the Philharmonic.