luxury properties for sale Romania (page 2)

Located in the Historic Center of Bucharest, Kiriazi Hotel is a property of remarkable historical value, set on a 1,015 sqm plot at the intersection of Blănari Street and Băcani Street, in the immediate vicinity of the iconic Hanul cu Tei. The property benefits from a privileged position within the protected Lipscani area — a historic “lipscănie”-type commercial ensemble, unique in Bucharest and rare at a national level — offering direct access to major urban landmarks such as Lipscani Street, Calea Victoriei, Smârdan Street, and Calea Moșilor. The building is configured as basement + ground floor + two upper floors (S+P+2E), comprising commercial spaces at the basement and ground floor levels and leased residential units on the upper floors. These functions have remained consistent throughout its evolution — commercial activity combined with residential and temporary accommodation use, characteristic of the traditional inn-hotel typology. Constructed in its present form between 1882 and 1884, the building is organized around an interior courtyard and features two principal façades facing Blănari and Băcani Streets, preserving a high degree of architectural and compositional authenticity. The parcel has formed part of the city’s historic urban fabric since the 18th century, when it was occupied by Zamfir’s Inn, erected during that period and later owned by the Sărindar Monastery until the secularization of monastic estates in 1863. Analysis of historical sale and redemption documents indicates that Dr. G. Kiriazi initially acquired portions of Zamfir’s Inn through emphyteusis rights, subsequently purchasing the associated land. Following these acquisitions, he established the hotel along the eastern wing of the former inn, oriented toward Băcani Street, with contemporary press references documenting the early operation of Kiriazi Hotel. After successive acquisitions completed by Dr. G. Kiriazi in 1880 and 1882, Kiriazi Hotel was constructed as a representative example of late 19th-century public hospitality architecture. The building operated as a hotel until its nationalization in 1950, after which it was converted into a residential property — a function it retains today. The property holds significant memorial and symbolic value, being associated both with the personality of Dr. G. Kiriazi and with important cultural and social activities of the era. Within its premises operated Ștefănescu’s Tavern, a venue frequented by Mihai Eminescu, while the newspaper Voința Națională also maintained its headquarters in the building. The property is listed in the National Register of Historic Monuments (Category B). Historical documents and urban plans confirm that the former Zamfir’s Inn occupied the same footprint as the current parcel, extending along Băcani Street toward Lipscani and adjacent to Hanul cu Tei, disproving theories suggesting the inn had been located on the interwar site currently occupied by Club A. At the time of its inauguration, a description published in România Liberă on February 24, 1884 highlighted the remarkable standards of the period: „Stilul Rennaissance, 2 etage în Centrul Capitalei, lângă Lipscani, (…) avend 59 camere, admirabil iluminate și aerate, 2 prăvălii, 2 pivniți, grajd pentru 8-10 cai, șopron pentru 4-5 trăsuri, (…) telefon și telegraf la fiecare cameră”. Through its exceptional location, documented history, architectural authenticity, and functional continuity, Kiriazi Hotel represents a compelling long-term investment opportunity, offering significant restoration and value-enhancement potential in one of Bucharest’s most important historic districts.

Located in the prestigious Sector 1 of Bucharest, this exceptional 870 sqm villa stands among the most remarkable historic residences to emerge on the market in recent years. Built in 1914 and designed by Victor Ștefănescu, personal architect to King Carol I, the residence is a refined and authentic expression of Neo-Romanian architecture, preserved with remarkable fidelity to its original form for over a century. Commissioned by Victor Ionescu, Romania’s first ambassador to Portugal and brother of the prominent statesman and former Prime Minister Take Ionescu, the villa transcends its architectural value to embody a meaningful chapter of Romanian history. It served as a meeting place for the Conservative-Democratic Party, where key decisions were shaped regarding Romania’s entry into World War I. Victor Ștephănescu’s architectural legacy includes some of Romania’s most important national landmarks, such as the Cercul Militar Național, the Arcul de Triumf, the Constanța Casino, and the Coronation Cathedral of Alba Iulia, a context that further elevates the cultural significance of this residence. Inside, the property retains the grandeur and authenticity of its era almost in its entirety. Generous proportions define the living spaces, with ceiling heights reaching 4.4 meters on the ground floor and 4 meters on the upper level, while expansive halls exceeding 50 sqm create a rare sense of scale and elegance. The central oak staircase, a true statement piece, is crowned by a monumental painting by Stoica Dumitrescu, depicting Stephen the Great rewarding seven peasants following a victory against the Ottoman Empire. Original parquet flooring, stained glass, marble fireplaces, silk wall coverings, and oak paneling contribute to an atmosphere of timeless refinement, complemented by stucco detailing and distinctive exterior decorative elements inspired by chestnut leaves, a rare feature within Neo-Romanian architecture. Wrought iron accents and cast-iron radiators adorned with floral motifs complete the residence’s authentic character. Unexpectedly for such a central location, the villa reveals a private garden of approximately 720 sqm, a true urban sanctuary. With a rustic charm and lush vegetation, it features fruit trees, fig trees, raspberries, strawberries, and mint, creating a self-contained ecosystem that feels entirely removed from the rhythm of the city. This secluded outdoor space is equally suited for quiet relaxation or for hosting elegant private gatherings. Between the 1970s and 1990s, the residence further cemented its cultural significance by serving as a setting for numerous landmark Romanian film productions, including Gaițele, Balanța, Lumini și Umbre, and Buletin de București. During this period, it welcomed many of the era’s most celebrated actors, becoming a vibrant backdrop for Romania’s “Golden Generation” of cinema and adding yet another layer to its enduring legacy.

Probably the most important private residence in Arad (if we exclude the palaces), Neuman House was the property of the most prestigious family in the history of the city. After the communists seized it, it became the Guest House of Arad county and was used as a protocol residence by the Ceaușescu family, including for official meetings between heads of state. Retroceded to the heirs in the 2000s, the imposing construction, today private property, is now ready to add new pages to its rich history. The Neuman House situated on Horia street is an architectural jewel that impressed over time many businessmen, artists or heads of state. The house discloses its secrets only for those who have the chance to cross its threshold: the street façade, with balanced proportions and mild decorative elements, does not offer any clue of the architectural exuberance that we find beyond the wooden gate that opens the way into the inner courtyard. Once inside, one understands the large dimensions of the U-shaped building, with the main façade marked by a grand neoclassical entrance, with a fronton and four columns. The interior retains the pomp of the last century: brightly colored stained glass windows, elaborately painted, wood carvings, wire stuccoes, fireplaces and many other decorative elements. The inscription on the façade indicates the years of the construction, 1925-1926. Arad benefited enormously from the rise and consolidation of the Neuman empire, the industrialist family being the largest tax payers for local budgets. Alfred's son, Francisc, was born in Arad in 1910. In 1935 his brother, Eduard, who ran the Yeast and Alcohol Factory, emigrated to Cuba, so Francisc took over all the family's business, at the age of only 25. The Baron increased the family's wealth, but was also the helpless witness of its loss, in 1948, during nationalization. He left to Switzerland without any money, from there to Salzburg and afterwards, to the USA. All the members of the family showed a real social involvement and solidarity, providing support through their charitable foundations. They showed increased care for their employees and contributed to improving the lives of the inhabitants. The Neuman family financially supported the construction of the imposing Cultural Palace inaugurated in 1913 and other palaces, exquisite jewels of the center of Arad. Today, their name is a true legend, not only in Arad, but throughout the entire Western part of the country. The Neuman House from Horia street fully reflects the grandeur of the famous family, being built with elements of neoclassical architecture and a ground floor rich in decorations, extremely exuberant, preserving today many of the original elements. The current owner has carried out a series of renovation and consolidation works (deepening and basement insulation, attic elevation, repairing the façade etc.). The house benefits from a project of complete remodeling and transformation of the building into a hotel with 23 rooms / 4 apartments / restaurant and SPA. The location of the building is ideal for a hotel - in the center of Arad, opposite the Szantay Palace. Additionally, the generous indoor courtyard can be converted into a summer garden.

In the village of Cubulcut, approximately 55 km from Oradea, stands Bonis Manor, a property whose significance extends beyond its architectural presence into the historical memory of one of the most defining periods in Central European history. Associated with notable events and figures of the 19th century, the estate preserves a rare identity shaped at the intersection of heritage, tradition, and history. Historical accounts and the genealogical archives of the Baranyi family suggest that during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848–1849, the property briefly served as a refuge for the Holy Crown of St. Stephen, one of the most important symbols of Hungarian statehood. As the revolutionary government led by Lajos Kossuth retreated toward Debrecen, the crown was reportedly transported in secret by Sámuel Bónis and his associate Josipovics, disguised as cattle merchants, transforming this place into a discreet witness to an episode of remarkable historical and symbolic significance. Set on approximately 6,635 sq m of land, the property includes a residence with a built area of approximately 417 sq m and ten rooms, preserving the characteristic expression of 19th-century rural noble estates. Balanced proportions, high ceilings, elegantly proportioned windows, and a partially vaulted cellar define an architectural language that continues to retain much of its original identity. Today, the property requires a complete restoration process, with certain areas significantly affected by the passage of time, including portions of the roof structure. Yet this stage also presents a rare opportunity for an intervention capable of reviving its authentic character and redefining its future. Recent rehabilitation initiatives aim to preserve the original architectural expression as faithfully as possible, creating the foundation for its transformation into a private residence with a distinct identity, a boutique hospitality concept, or a cultural project built around a history that is difficult to replicate.

The architectural complex Bragadiru Palace dates back to the dawn of the 20th century, in full Belle Époque. The whole domain is named after its founder, Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru (1842-1915). An emblematic figure for the city, he started from a poor family of workers and became Europe's third industrialist at the beginning of the 20th century. Through his ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, Bragadiru has fully contributed to the capital's economic and architectural development. At the end of the 19th century, he set up a brewery – at that time, in Bucharest, there were only two such companies, both of German origin and highly appreciated: Luther (the future Grivita) and Oppler (later GIB). Near his brewery, Bragadiru built a recreation center for employees, following an old tradition. Thus was born the Colossus, as the building was known in its beginnings, around 1905. Designed as a Palace of Culture, it was used as a brewery and a performance hall, but also to host several family events of the workers. Bragadiru Palace was built according to the plans designed by Austrian architect Anton Shuckerl in 1894. It is an impressive construction, in size, architecture and decorations, with particular attention paid to details: spiral stairs in Norman style, stuccoes, statues inserted in the facade, Venetian mirrors and Victorian-style balconies. The summer garden and terrace harmoniously complete the eclectic architecture. With a spectacular ballroom, which can also function as a theater or concert hall, a library, a bowling alley, numerous rooms, shops and offices that operated on the ground floor, the Palace combines the styles of the most famous buildings of the time: the Chamber of Commerce, The Romanian Post Office, The House of Savings and Consignments (CEC) and the building of the Supreme Court of Justice, all built in the same period. In June 1948, the family's property is confiscated, and the Palace becomes the Lenin Culture House of district 5 and functions under this purpose until 1989. After the fall of the communist regime, it is completely neglected, until 2003, when it is returned to the rightful owners, Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru’s descendants, who manage to restore the former building from ruins. Bragadiru Palace is one of the most imposing buildings of Bucharest of all time. Today, it is an elegant location, which hosts private events, from wedding ceremonies to birthday parties, personal or corporate. The Colosseum Hall is truly spectacular and any event organized here is engrained by the aristocratic atmosphere and the glow of the glory years of inter-war Bucharest. The property is available for sale as it follows: - Integral: Palace + Garden; - The palace of 10,110 sqm with the subsidiary land, of 4,369 sqm; - Garden of 12,122 sqm, suitable for real estate development, current urban indices: CUT 2.5 and POT 75%

The palace at 9 Verde Street (today Gheorghe Manu street) was built between 1911 and 1923, initiated by Tațiana Niculescu-Dorobanțu. One of the four daughters of Ion C. Brătianu, Tațiana (1870-1940) married in 1900 Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu (1873-1943), liberal political figure and prefect of Ilfov. Through their properties will also feature the Darvari manor, close to Bucharest. The plans designed by architect Grigore Cerchez (Cerkez) specified „a building with 2, 3 and 4 levels, massive walls, covered with tiles”, occupying 668,29 square meters. In a letter from 9th of May 1910 addressed to her sister Măriuţa Pillat, then in Paris, Tațiana confessed: „I believe we will have a truly beautiful mansion, Louis XII style, with carved stone and exposed brique”. On 25 September 1913, Taţiana was in France, writing to Sabina Cantacuzino: „The castles on Loire I am not even mentioning, I am amazed by so much beauty and very proud to realize that, without possible comparation to these, my house is very beautiful. Unfortunately, the narrow street makes the palace look crammed.” To furnish the interior, Tațiana chose Romanian traditional art objects and pieces from Antique shops in Paris and Munich. From Spain she brought furniture and tapestries. She wanted everything to be perfect and told her close friends: „I will show you this room only when it is completely furnished.” The imposing building bears the allure of a Gothic cathedral, with exquisite constructive and decorative elements: the exposed brick façade, in several shades of red, the towers’ silhouettes, the entrance portal, the imposing windows, with carved stone elements in Neo-gothic fashion, the cornices, gargoyles, stained glass windows and pointed arches that mark the exterior and interior. In his will, Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu donated the building to the Ion C. Brătianu Establishment, provided that it became the museum „Ilie, Tațiana and Ion Niculescu-Dorobanțu”. Between 1948-1957, the house hosted the canteen of the employees of the Minister of Industry. In 1956, following the pressures of the Direction of Historic Monuments, that considered the building „one of the most valuable in the Capital from an architectural point of view”, it was classified as part of the heritage of the Ministry of Culture and Education, undergoing consolidation works. Starting 1958, it hosted the Technical school of choreography, with 300 students. Today, more than one century after its construction, the impressive Gothic Revival residence maintains its mysterious allure, fascinating the passers-by with its imposing dimensions and unique construction details, crafted by one of the most important Romanian architects. Sources: Simina Stan, „Reședința Ilie I. Niculescu-Dorobanțu, monument istoric”, în Revista Arhitectura, iulie 2015 Narcis Dorin Ion, ”Memoria unui oraș – București”, ed. Institutul Cultural Român, București, 2012

The mansion known today by the name of its second owner, Timișoara-born businessman Koșca, was built in the 19th century by the Polish Hagianopol. He sold the property in 1930 but the time that has passed over it since then has not touched it; perfectly preserved and with a young spirit the domanin stands proud today, with new and attractive accessories such as the sky-reflecting pool. Protected by a belt of bushy trees strategically placed on the property boundary, the main building is white, bright and warm under its reddish new brick roof. The interior keeps the light and associates the white walls with a lot of wood - decorative beams on the ceiling, old furniture, carpentry. In one room high semi-columns are painted with flowers in autumn rust colors, outlining a chromatic leitmotif. The bedrooms are generous, gently dominated by the warmth of wood; brown terracotta stoves preserve the rustic character of the entire mansion. A gorgeous tile stove in blue and white is the piece de resistance of the living room. The area of over two hectares includes 4 buildings with their own central office and various annexes and facilities. First of all, the Mansion stands out with a built area of 306 square meters divided into 6 rooms, living room, 4 bathrooms, kitchen, cellar, porch, terrace with garden and swimming pool. The secondary house has a built-up area of 238 sqm - 4 rooms, living room, kitchen, bathroom, indoor garage, an outdoor terrace and an indoor one with a semi-round shape and large windows that offer a superb view of the valley above which the property sits. Separately we find another building - a former warehouse partially furnished as an apartment of approximately 60 useful square meters with 2 bedrooms, bathroom and kitchen. A large part of this building, however, is empty and waiting to be given a purpose. All three buildings have, in addition to the mentioned areas, high attics over the entire surface of the ground floor, attics that can be transformed by the future owner at will into useful spaces. A special building present on the land is the former nobleman's wine cellar; it has a footprint of 218 sqm and is built on three underground levels. In the past these premises had an industrial use being a mini factory of dairy products but it can be used again in its own right or as spaces for events. The orchard that surrounds the property has more than 300 fruit trees per fruit that delight guests and turn autumn celebrations in the courtyard of the mansion into real feasts. Conceived at one time as accommodation for tourists interested in the south of the country (Bucharest and Ploiești are 60 km away, Târgoviște 20 km and Pitești 40 km) the mansion receives its guests as a space for recreation and events but just as well it can support a reconversion with an emphasis on its agricultural or orchard potential. Or, why not, it can become a vacation property where the rich history and beauty of simple architecture intertwine with the amenities necessary for the comfort of modern life

In the picturesque heart of Transylvania, at a crossroads between past and present, lies the Karg Haller János Manor, a place where time seems to have taken root. Located in the village of Dârlos, just 10 km from Mediaș and 30 km from Sighișoara, this historic property shelters the story of a noble family and the spirit of a bygone era. At the foot of sun-kissed hills and surrounded by the serenity of Transylvanian villages, the manor reveals itself as an architectural symphony blending classical elegance with rural nobility. Built centuries ago, its walls have witnessed the glorious times of the Haller family, Hungarian nobles who brought charm and refinement to the region. Every corner of this 750 m² manor tells a story: The cool cellar , deep within the silence of the earth, was once home to fine wines that still echo the festivities of days gone by. The spacious rooms on the ground floor , adorned with light and memories, now await a new story. The attic , filled with silent promises, could be transformed into workshops, bedrooms, or an art gallery. More Than a Manor: A True Estate The property also boasts four additional buildings, each with its own unique charm: A 180 m² house , perfect for hosting guests or auxiliary spaces. A 200 m² house , with immense potential for a residence or events. A smaller house of 100 m² , ideal as a peaceful retreat or an office. An additional 300 m² building , ready to become a multifunctional space or an event hall. Together, these buildings provide a generous total area of 1,555 m², all wrapped in the charm of historic architecture. The 4,100 m² plot surrounding the property is more than just land – it is a gateway to nature and history. Its gardens, once witnesses to elegant soirées, dream of becoming a haven for joy, creativity, or relaxation. A Region Steeped in Legend Dârlos, with roots stretching back to the 3rd century BC, reveals its grandeur through the 15th-century Gothic Evangelical Church, adorned with unique Renaissance frescoes. Just a few kilometers away, Mediaș and Sighișoara – two medieval jewels – preserve the stories of fortified walls and cobblestone streets. At 35 km, Malancrav welcomes you with the Apafi Manor, a symbol of royalty now owned by King Charles III. This region is more than a destination; it is a journey through time. VAT is applied to the displayed price. Photo Credit: Florin Pepene

Located on Dinicu Golescu Boulevard, The Villa with Gorgons is one of the few buildings from the beginning of the 20th century that has been preserved on this important artery of Bucharest. The building was built in 1913 and bears the signature of Ion D. Berindey, one of the most famous and prolific Romanian architects of the first three decades of the 20th century. Among the 29 works classified as historical monuments of Ion D. Berindey are the Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino Palace (today the headquarters of the George Enescu National Museum and the Romanian Composers Union), the George G. Assan House (today the House of Scientists), Palace of the Journalists' Union (today the Very Small Theatre). The Villa with Gorgons was built as Colonel Andreescu's private residence as explained by Revista Poporului, a newspaper of the time, which emphasizes how a good architect can with a modest amount easily obtain a completely satisfactory construction from the aesthetic and comfortable point of view. From an aesthetic point of view, the building is tributary to the romantic style and has as a distinctive sign the gorgonles, sculptures that decorate the facade. Gorgons are taken from Greek culture where symbols on doors, walls, windows, floors and shields were intended to protect the ancient Greeks from evil. In terms of use, the villa is truly versatile and can be set up as a home, office space or a bohemian restaurant. Located on a land area of ​​309 square meters, with a footprint of 101 square meters, Vila cu Gorgone is a slim building, with a D+D+1E+M height regime. The spaces are generous and balanced on levels. The ground floor and first floor have three rooms each and spacious entrance halls. The rooms have wide windows and are bright. The same generous space also exists in the mezzanine, and the attic is open space and perfect for a bohemian design. The villa has two access ways: one pedestrian and another for car access. The building is strengthened and the facade is completely restored. Photo: Tudor Prisecaru, Alex Canjea.

Transylvanian Masterpiece: 17th-Century Historic Estate, Fully Restored with Modern Elegance An extraordinary opportunity to own a timeless piece of history in the heart of Transylvania. This 17th-century estate has been masterfully restored to preserve its original architectural integrity while integrating cutting-edge technology, sustainable materials, and modern comfort. An exclusive ensemble of three impeccably restored heritage homes, unified within a private courtyard oasis. The property beautifully revives the spirit of a bygone era—while offering serene seclusion, timeless beauty, and uncompromised privacy. Located between Poiana Brașov, Romania’s most prestigious ski resort, and the world-famous Bran Castle (known as Dracula's Castle), this unique property is set in a landscape of myth, mountains, and unmatched beauty. Whether envisioned as a private residence, boutique hotel, or exclusive retreat, this estate offers exceptional versatility, privacy, and prestige. • Original stone walls, wooden beams, and artisan details from the 1600s • Smart-home systems, underfloor heating, and premium finishes • Breathtaking Carpathian views, lush surroundings, and excellent accessibility • Ideal for year-round living or seasonal luxury

In the long history of the Leordeni, a village which was first documented in 18th of May 1526 by the voievode (local prince) Radu de la Afumaţi, we can find extraordinary specificities from the evolution of the Romanian society along the great noble families which shaped it. Leordeni, cornerstone of important dynasties – Leurdenii, Băleanu, Golescu, Lahovary or Kretzulescu – was home to imposing residences and domains corresponding to the great power and reputation of their owners. One of the last great lords in Leordeni was Nicolae Kretzulescu (Crețulescu) (1812-1900) founding father of the Romanian Academy and a stated liberal appointed Prime Minister three times. Nicolae Kretzulescu, Constantin Brâncoveanu and Iordache Kretzulescu’s heir of Leordeni, built an impressive estate which later has been inherited by his daughter, Anna, who married Lahovary. At the same time Kretzulescu was managing his estates, Nicolae (Nae) Gussi (1830-1901), appeared on the scenery as administrator of the Golescu family’s fortune – another great family in Leordeni. After 1880, Gussi becomes the owner of the Golescu estates which were neighbouring those belonging to the Prime Minister. The hostility between Kretzulescu and Gussi was notorious, and the economic struggles between them both culminated in a series of lawsuits at the end of the nineteenth century. The variety of lands (arable, vineyards, forests) defining the estates of the Leordeni would evolve over time through various agrarian reforms, landing or expropriation laws, inheritances, or successions. And in the interwar period these testified the last two great families. The Gussi family (Alexandru, Traian, Paul and Elena) and the Lahovary family (through Anna) held together approximately 550 ha, plus another 100 ha of vineyards. They were in fact the descendants of Nicholas Kretzulescu and Nae Gussi. The Golescu-Gussi estate evolved notably through the two centuries of history. The first version of the manor was built by the Golescu family, probably during the life of Iordache Golescu, who also built the Golescu Church in the proximity of the estate. Subsequently, after Nicolae Gussi’s ownership, the property changed, so that after 1900, Alexandru Gussi (1864-1947) revolutionized the manor and the entire estate. In fact, Alexandru, a magistrate and a politician with an important activity in the Muscel Bar and Prefecture, would devote much of his career and life to the modernization of his native lands. Owning the old house of the Golesti, Alexander rebuilt it between 1938-1939, making it a truly monumental construction. After 1949, the entire domain was nationalized and had different functionalities serving the communist institutions (the office of Sovrom Petrol, IAS and the City Hall).

“When Ioan N. Roman with master Caragiale and Barbu Delavrancea emptied jars of amber Samos and Tenedos wine, in the small corner room at Hrisicos they modestly devised not only Romanian Poetry and Prose - but Romania itself...” - Constantin N. Sarry A landmark in the city’s history, Hrisicos House was built in 1900 to the plans of French architect Louis Givért. The building stands out through its eclectic style, dominated by neoclassical features with Art Nouveau details characteristic of the early 20th century. It served as a reference point for later developments in Ovidiu Square, designed mainly by architect Adolf Lintz in Viennese style. Hrisicos House is one of the oldest surviving buildings from the area’s original layout, marking the corner of Traian and Pescarilor Streets (the latter having since disappeared). Commissioned by Gheorghe Hrisicos, once a “simple shop boy” who quickly became a well-known wine merchant and central property owner, the house was inaugurated with great pomp in the autumn of 1903. Conceived as a luxury hotel, with a restaurant offering both seafood and international cuisine on the ground floor, it soon became a landmark of Constanța. Bucharest’s elites, accustomed to the “Carol” or “Regina” hotels, now flocked to “Hrisicos.” Yet the owner’s success was short-lived: sued by defrauded banks and merchants, he was branded by the press as “Constanța’s swindler banker.” Hrisicos fled to Russia, was extradited, and sentenced to two years in prison. The scandal and widely publicized trial gave Hrisicos House unmatched notoriety, while its restaurant and hotel were frequented by notable figures such as Ion Luca Caragiale, Barbu Ștefănescu Delavrancea, Alexandru Vlahuță, and Take Ionescu. The building was devastated during the First World War and reopened only in October 1924 as the headquarters of the Popular Bank Steagul Dobrogei. During the Second World War, it became the favored residence of German military commanders overseeing the city and coastal operations. Immediately after August 23, 1944, the balcony apartment was occupied by the Soviet military commander of Constanța. Under the communist regime, the property was nationalized, converted into a military barracks and command post, and, following major renovations in 1974, functioned as a restaurant, wine cellar, and guesthouse under the name “Pelican.” After the fall of communism, the building hosted various banks but suffered significant interior degradation. In 2006, it was purchased by its current owners, who initiated an extensive process of restoration and rehabilitation. It has since been converted into a modern high-end bistro and a four-star hotel with 23 rooms. Regaining the stature and function of its beginnings, Hrisicos House, which has retained its original name in collective memory despite all transformations, has once again become a vibrant symbol of Constanța, a silent witness to major secrets and political decisions of the turbulent 20th century. Sources: Doina Păuleanu, Constanţa: spectacolul modernității târzii: (1878–1928), Arcade Publishing, Bucharest, 2006 Doina Păuleanu, Historical Memoir Viorel Ovidiu Lipovan, Gabriel-Octavian Nicolae, Constanța Remember 1895–1945, Constanța: Ovidius University Press, 2010 casa-hrisicos.ro voceaconstantei.ro turismistoric.ro

The historic streets in the center of the capital were also targeted in the modernization process of Bucharest in the interwar period, areas that, at that time, were opening up to the new economic and commercial domains. The urban block-villas would meet the required functionality needs- the building that can be found on 24-26 Polona Street, built in 1927-1928, is one of such type. The modern building, individually compartmentalized on each floor, has undergone a restoration, rehabilitation and reconversion process, becoming an ultramodern and multifunctional construction.