Kretzulescu Church is one of the few surviving examples of Brâncovenesc architecture in central Bucharest, built in 1722 by the boyar Iordache Kretzulescu and his wife, Safta, daughter of Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu. Located just steps from Revolution Square, the church has stood witness to decisive moments in Romania’s modern history, including the events of December 1989. Despite suffering damage during earthquakes and years of neglect under communism, it has been carefully restored and preserved. 

Its red brick façade and elegant portico contrast beautifully with the surrounding neoclassical and modernist buildings. Inside, the murals by Gheorghe Tattarescu reflect a fusion of Orthodox iconography and Romantic Western aesthetics. The church’s serene courtyard offers a rare pocket of quiet and reflection in an otherwise hectic urban space. 

Today, Kretzulescu remains a symbol of cultural resilience and spiritual continuity in the very heart of the city. 

Photo: Diego Delso - Wikipedia

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