In the heart of one of Bucharest’s most elegant neighborhoods, on Londra Street, lies the National Museum of Maps and Old Books, a place where visitors can discover an impressive collection of maps and graphic works that showcase the evolution of geography and visual art over the centuries. The museum was opened to the public in 2003, following the generous donation of an extensive map collection by Daniela and Adrian Năstase to the Romanian state.

A Venetian-Style Mansion in the Heart of Bucharest

Housed in a historic boyar mansion, the museum is not only a cultural and historical treasure but also a visual journey into the refined architecture of interwar Bucharest.

The building that houses the museum dates back to the 1920s and combines Gothic architectural elements, visible in the pointed arches, with Mediterranean influences, such as loggias reminiscent of 15th-century Venetian villas. 

The result is an elegant and harmonious structure, providing the perfect setting for exhibiting the museum’s collections. The mansion is part of Bucharest’s architectural heritage, classified as Class B, representing a remarkable example of interwar architecture.

Upon its transformation into a museum, the ceilings were decorated with mythological representations and astronomical maps, while the specially designed stained glass windows feature heraldic motifs and cartographic elements. These details create an intimate atmosphere, ideal for studying the displayed maps.

The Art of Stained Glass and Interior Refinement

The museum’s decoration was executed by a talented team of artists under the guidance of the institution’s first director, Octavian Penda. The team included stained glass artist Benone Șuvăilă, alongside Marcel Aciocoiței, Gheorghe Butnariu, and Neculai Mirodoni. 

The stained glass and painted ceilings provide a warm and refined ambiance, combining artistic beauty with the museum’s specific purpose. Through these interventions, the historic mansion was transformed into a welcoming home for maps, while retaining its architectural charm.

An Impressive Collection of Maps and Prints

The museum’s collection comprises over 1,000 works, created between the 16th and 20th centuries. The collection includes maps of regions inhabited by Romanians, as well as maps of other continents, astronomical maps, and city plans. In addition, the exhibitions include graphic works depicting landscapes, portraits, and historical views.

The core collection belonged to Prof. Dr. Adrian Năstase’s family, and the museum’s opening was made possible thanks to their generosity. Over time, the main collection has been supplemented with donations of maps and graphic works from institutions and private individuals, including the Romanian Commercial Bank (BCR), Ion Hidegcuti, Professor Ioan Ciortan, as well as Marilena Borcescu, Liliana Sonia Sion, and Uca Marinescu.

An Experience for All Ages

The National Museum of Maps and Old Books is not only for cartography or history enthusiasts. It is a space open to everyone, including children, who can participate in educational activities and interactive games designed to spark imagination and curiosity. 

Visitors can also take part in guided tours and themed events that transform a simple visit into a captivating and educational experience. The warm atmosphere, combined with the professionalism of the staff, ensures that every visit is memorable.

Values and Cultural Mission

The museum promotes lifelong learning, dialogue, social inclusion, and diversity. Its mission emphasizes care for heritage, quality over quantity, and representativeness of the collections. Every map and displayed work tells a story about exploration, discovery, and historical perspectives of the world across different eras.

Just as old maps guided travelers across unknown seas, the museum today guides visitors through the fascinating history of the world, offering a unique perspective on how people have understood space and the universe over time.

A Cultural and Refined Oasis in Bucharest

Located in a quiet and elegant area of the capital, the museum provides visitors with the opportunity to step into a world where history, art, and science merge harmoniously. Every detail of the building, from the stained glass windows to the painted ceilings, contributes to an atmosphere that invites reflection and exploration.

The museum is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Whether one is passionate about maps and history or simply wishes to admire the beauty of an elegant period mansion, the museum is a place worth exploring.

The National Museum of Maps and Old Books stands as a true hidden treasure in Bucharest. It is a place where the past comes alive through maps and prints, allowing visitors to experience the excitement of discovery and knowledge. 

Its intimate ambiance, valuable collections, and refined decor transform every visit into a journey through time, making the museum a distinguished cultural landmark in the capital.

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