The Romanian Athenaeum is a monument of elegance and culture. Built nearly 150 years ago, between 1886 and 1888, the Romanian Athenaeum is one of the capital's most important tourist attractions and one of the most famous meeting places for art and culture lovers from all over the world.

In the 19th century, in the context of the search for national and cultural identity, a group of intellectuals and artists decided to set up an institution to promote Romanian education and culture. Thus, in 1864, the "Romanian Philharmonic Society" was founded under the direction of the conductor Eduard Wachmann, which was to become the nucleus of the Romanian Athenaeum.

Throughout its history, in particular during the period of George Enescu's directorship, the Romanian Athenaeum witnessed many important events in the cultural and political life of the country. It has hosted memorable concerts by the world's great composers and musicians such as George Enescu, Franz Liszt, Richard Strauss, Maurice Ravel and Igor Stravinsky.

In terms of design, the Romanian Athenaeum is inspired by ancient Greek and Roman architecture. The building is built in a neoclassical and eclectic style, with decorative elements typical of the Italian Renaissance.

Visitor information:

The Athenaeum building can be visited on the basis of the purchase of tickets, according to the program posted here. 

For groups, the Philharmonic can offer guided tours (Ro, Eng) only by prior appointment at the following e-mail address: cleopatra.david@fge.org.ro

Tickets can be purchased at the Athenaeum House (Constantin Esarcu Street) or at the artists' entrance (Benjamin Franklin Street) with cash payment.

Ticket price: 10 lei

Address: 1, Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3, Strada Benjamin Franklin 1-3, București 030167

The following transit lines have routes that arrive close to the Romanian Athenaeum: 

Bus: 122, 137, 168, 205, 226, 301, 381, 368, 311, N113, N117, N119

Metro: M2

Trolleybus: 79, 86

Photo: Wikipedia