Romania became in the second part of the c19th an important grain exporter, once the waterways of the Danube and the Black Sea were opened for international trade after centuries of Ottoman control. The revenues from those exports made possible the development of a beautiful civil architecture of French inspiration in the urban centres located in the grain producing areas. Buzau, a provincial town in Eastern Romania is one such example and the delightful building above, which looks exuberant despite I photographed it in quite poor light and even fog conditions, is an excellent illustration of eclectic architecture, conveying an air of optimism and well being typical of la Belle Époque.
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I endeavor through this daily image series to inspire appreciation of the historic houses of Romania, a virtually undiscovered, but fascinating chapter of European architectural heritage.
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If you plan acquiring a historic property in Romania or start a renovation project, I would be delighted to advice you in locating the property, specialist research, planning permissions, restoration project management, etc. To discuss your particular plan please see my contact details in the Contact page of this weblog.
Valentin Mandache, architectural historian 