Domnița Bălașa church, Orthodox church in central Bucharest, Romania
Description
Domnița Bălașa church is an Orthodox house of worship in central Bucharest distinguished by a striking brick pattern on its exterior. Rows of yellow and red brick alternate in zigzag designs, while large paired windows with stone frames break up the surface.
History
The current structure was completed in 1885 and replaced three earlier churches on the same site that had been damaged or destroyed by earthquakes and ground instability. This fourth rebuilding reflects the community's determination to maintain a place of worship at this significant location.
Culture
The church is named after Domnița Bălașa, daughter of a ruling prince, whose remains rest in a decorated niche inside. Visitors can see how this building serves as a memorial space, with painted artworks honoring the family's memory.
Practical
The building sits on a site near Sfinții Apostoli Street and is easy to reach on foot in the city center. Visitors should know the structure rests on aged wooden foundations that require careful maintenance to ensure its stability.
Did you know?
The church's foundation rests on oak beams that have deteriorated because the nearby Dâmbovița River shifted its course over time. This hidden structural challenge shows how changes in the surrounding environment can directly impact a building's longevity.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Bucharest).
Curtea Veche
243 m
Stavropoleos Monastery
421 m
Bucharest Old Town
359 m
Manuc's Inn
233 m
Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral
425 m
Lipscani
440 m
Piața Unirii
173 m
Palace of Justice
117 m
Dealul Mitropoliei
370 m
Curtea Veche Church
281 m
Comedy Theater
352 m
Gabroveni Inn
339 m
Cafeneaua veche
332 m
Biserica Sfântul Dumitru - Poștă
334 m
Strada Franceză
233 m
Monument to Lady Bălașa
27 m
Banca Chrissoveloni
439 m
Romanian Kitsch Museum
323 m
Strada Halelor
118 m
St. Dumitru's Church
321 m
St. Elijah–Rahova Church
293 m
St. Catherine's Church
411 m
Agricola-Fonciera Building
277 m
Grave of Zoe Brâncoveanu
27 m
Grave of Bălașa Brâncoveanu
27 m
Cafeneaua Veche 9
319 m
Strada Lipscani 36, Bucharest
434 m
Emblemescu House
433 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes