The University Square, located in the center of Bucharest, is probably the best known square in Romania, constituting "kilometer zero" of the country's road network. Situated in the center of Bucharest, it is perhaps the most representative place of the capital, built in a style that encourages urban modernization and with strong Parisian influences.

Known for its crucial role in recent historical events, the square is also a vibrant cultural and social center. Surrounded by iconic buildings and prestigious educational institutions, University Square is a landmark for the city's residents and visitors.

University Square. History and location

University Square has always occupied an important place in the life of Bucharest. Its origins date back to the 15th century, when it was the northern edge of the Bucharest fairgrounds, and it was built to demarcate the north-south and east-west axes of the city, following the Haussmann model (the urban planning and architectural style implemented by Georges-Eugène Haussmann in Paris in the second half of the 19th century).  It was 200 years before the Square became part of the perimeter of the city, and all sorts of craft workshops and commercial buildings sprang up around it, becoming the most important cultural center of the city, thanks to the establishment of the Domnești School by Șerban Cantacuzino. In 1857 the construction of the University building began, according to Alexandru Orescu's plans, and it was inaugurated 12 years later. Later, between 1912 and 1926, the lateral buildings were also built.

Over the years, University Square has served as a place for strolling for the city's inhabitants, with a monument dedicated to I.C. Brătianu, who gave the square its name for a long time. In fact, another name of the University Square is also known as the University Square, December 21, 1989, in memory of the victims of the Revolution. This is also the reason why University Square is so well known in Romania: it is a symbol of democracy, of the country's liberation from the communist yoke, and is seen as one of the places closest in architectural style and appearance to Western countries. Thousands gathered here to protest against the communist regime and the square became a symbol of the struggle for freedom and democracy. The tragic and heroic events that took place in this square changed the course of Romanian history, and University Square has remained a sacred place of collective memory ever since.

University Square. Architecture and points of interest

University Square is surrounded by buildings of great architectural and historical value. Among them is the University of Bucharest - a prestigious educational institution, which has educated many of Romania's leading personalities. The National Theater "Ion Luca Caragiale", one of the most important cultural institutions in Romania, is located next to the University. The National Theater is a meeting place for theater lovers and hosts numerous performances and festivals. On the north side of the square is the Colțea Hospital, one of the oldest hospitals in Bucharest, with impressive architecture and a long history of medical services.

In the middle of the square is the statue of Michael the Brave, a monument dedicated to the ruler who achieved the first union of the Romanian Lands in 1600. It is an important landmark and a popular meeting place.

University Square. Cultural and social Life

University Square is a true center of cultural and social life in Bucharest. Many cultural events, concerts, exhibitions and festivals take place here, attracting both locals and tourists. The square is also a popular venue for public gatherings and civic demonstrations, continuing its tradition as a space for free speech and public debate.

One of the most significant protests in University Square is the Golaniada, also known as the University Square Phenomenon or the University Square Demonstrations. Initiated out of general dissatisfaction with the evolution of political life in post-decembrist Romania, these mass events took place in Bucharest's University Square in 1990. They ran for 53 days and gathered around 50,000 people each evening. But the protests were stopped by bringing mine workers into the capital to force the participants to give up. The demonstrations were nicknamed the "Golaniada", a title derived from the nickname "golan", used in particular by President Ion Iliescu in reference to the protesters.

Today, numerous cafes, restaurants and bookstores around the square contribute to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of this area. University Square is also a favorite place for students, due to its proximity to the University of Bucharest and other academic institutions.

University Square. Transportation and accessibility

University Square is an important transportation hub, served by the University metro station, which provides quick and easy access to various parts of the city. Numerous bus and trolleybus lines also traverse the area, providing excellent connectivity for commuters and visitors.

Its easy accessibility and central location make University Square a convenient venue for meetings and events, as well as an ideal starting point for exploring the city.

University Square is more than just an urban space; it is a symbol of freedom, culture and civic life in Bucharest. With a rich history and an impressive architectural landscape, the square continues to be a focal point of public and cultural life in the Romanian capital. Whether as a venue for major events, a place of protest or a tourist destination, University Square remains an essential and vibrant space, representing the spirit and evolution of the city.

Also recommended: Constitution Square in Bucharest: History, music, bustle and grandeur in the heart of the Capital