One of the things that most tourists first notice about Bucharest is its impressive number of churches – Christian Orthodox to be precise. The city grew organically around them and they still continue to be an important part of its social life to say the least.

Of all these highly ornate religious monuments I’ve always had a soft spot for the late 19th – early 20th century ones. Due to changes in construction technologies and aesthetic requirements (among other things) these modern buildings tend to be much bigger but much less robust than their predecessors dating back to the 17th or 18th centuries. This makes me look at them in a rather tender and somewhat protective manner.

Take for example Domnița Bălașa Church, a truly beautiful art monument built between 1881-1885.

In the 1980s Domnița Bălașa Church was surrounded by blocks of flats in order to make it invisible to the eyes of the communist officials. Although a sad one I must admit this urbanistic decision makes the church even more appealing to me as one needs to get off the crowded boulevards to find this oasis of peace and tranquility.

Another church that I am particularly fond of is Biserica Amzei (Amzei Church) situated near the marketplace bearing the same name.

Inaugurated in 1901, this is a wonderful example of Neo Byzantine architecture with gorgeous elements of the Art Nouveau style, otherwise quite rare in Bucharest. Its slenderness is emphasized by the two meter high socle on which it stands, waiting to be admired.

There’s much much more to talk about past and present Orthodox churches in Bucharest! So why not join me on my next walk through the city’s tangled streets?
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All the best from Bucharest,
Silvana.

About the author: Silvana is a personal tour guide and translator based in Bucharest, Romania, contributor and partner of Bucharest Uncovered. She spends most of her free time observing the details that make Bucharest such a peculiarly charming city.