Bucharest Old Town

The Old Town is one of Bucharest's earliest settlements, with structures dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

Throughout time, it was the seat of Romanian princes, a centre for trade, a place of worship, and a crossroad for travelers. It managed to survive Ceausescu's 1980s razing of one fifth of the city to build his vision of a new Socialist capital.

After spending decades as a slum, much of the Old Town has been renovated and is now one of the most popular areas in the city. Historic buildings have been gallantly restored, yet other properties are still awaiting their facelift. The contrast gives that much more charm to the pedestrian lanes and cobbled streets lined with bookshops, theatres, restaurants, clubs and cafés.

Bucharest Old Town can be seen via: