Cotroceni Palace Reopens for Tourists

As announced by Visit Bucharest, Cotroceni Palace, one of Bucharest’s iconic landmarks, will open its gardens, inner courtyard, church, and even parts of the palace interior to the public starting next weekend.

This initiative, announced by Interim President Ilie Bolojan, marks a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accessibility in Romania’s state institutions.

Key Features of the Initiative

• Free Access: Visitors can explore the gardens, inner courtyard, and the Cotroceni Church without any fees. The palace itself will become part of the Cotroceni Museum circuit.
• Visiting Schedule: The public will have access every weekend from Friday to Sunday. Additional details about weekday visits (Tuesday through Thursday) and guided tours are expected to be announced soon.
• Integration into Cotroceni Museum: The official areas of the palace, previously reserved for high-level meetings, will now be included in museum tours. This offers visitors a rare glimpse into Romania’s political and historical heritage16.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Cotroceni Palace has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1895 as a royal residence. In 1991, it became the headquarters of the Romanian Presidency. The old wing houses the Cotroceni National Museum, which showcases over 20,000 artifacts, including Queen Marie’s art collection and other treasures from Romanian royalty.

Another highlight is the Cotroceni Church, which was rebuilt between 2003 and 2009 after being demolished during the communist era. It incorporates restored frescoes from the original structure and holds regular religious services.

Special Features

• Military Presence: Soldiers from the Guard Battalion will be present every weekend. This initiative aims to inspire children and highlight the elite traditions of Romania’s military.
• Transparency and Trust: Interim President Bolojan emphasized that this project is a “fundamental step” toward regaining public trust in state institutions by promoting openness and respect for citizens.

Visitor Experience

Visitors can enjoy:

• A guided tour through more than 30 palace rooms, including spaces once used by Romanian royalty.
• Access to lavishly decorated interiors featuring historic artwork.
• Strolls through beautifully maintained gardens surrounding the palace.
• Visitors must present valid ID for entry.
• Guided tours are available with skip-the-line tickets for convenience.
• The initiative also aligns with broader efforts to make Bucharest’s cultural heritage more accessible to both locals and tourists.

The opening of Cotroceni Palace is a cultural milestone and a gesture of goodwill from Romania’s Presidential Administration. It invites citizens and tourists to explore a site deeply rooted in Romania’s history while fostering transparency and civic pride.