Muntenia

Castles, monasteries, mountain trails, and plenty of history

Muntenia represents a part of what the chroniclers of old referred to as “Țara Românească” or “Wallachia.” The region is rich in both significant historical landmarks and must-see natural treasures.

Relief

Geography

The region is situated in the south of the country, bordered by Transylvania and Moldova to the north, Oltenia to the west, Dobrogea to the east, and Bulgaria to the south. Muntenia is surrounded and protected by the Carpathians, while being bathed by the Danube and Olt rivers.

Alongside Romanians, other ethnic communities also reside here, including Romani, Hungarians, Turks, and Lipovans.

Muntenia is predominantly composed of the Romanian Plain, which meets the Getic Plateau in the central part, transitioning to the Eastern Carpathians and the Curvature Sub-Carpathians in the east. Thus, the region is characterized by a beauty that lies in the complexity and diversity of its landscape.

Did you know that?

Initially, in 1922, the Triumphal Arch was built from wood.

To build the Palace of the Parliament, an entire neighborhood—Uranus—was demolished. This event took place between 1981 and 1988.

The nickname “Little Paris” derives from the fact that, during the years 1900-1930, Bucharest was among the most beautiful and modernized cities in Europe.

The ”Corbii de Piatră” Monastery in Argeș County is the oldest rock-cut Romanian church built into a rock massif. The place of worship houses a collection of paintings that are 700 years old.

The Căldărușani Monastery was built and completed in 100 days. It was constructed in 1637, at the initiative of Prince Matei Basarab.

All the capitals of Wallachia were located in Muntenia, except for the period between 1770 and 1771, when the capital was in Craiova.

Bucharest was the first city in the world to be illuminated with gas lamps.

The Mud Volcanoes are the only miniature volcanoes in Europe.

In 1857, the world’s first oil refinery was inaugurated in Ploiești.

Important cities of interest

Cities in Muntenia

Bucharest

The capital of Romania is a blend of innovation, history, and culture. The 19th century was a time when the city was also known as “Little Paris,” due to the connections Romanian personalities had with France and the French-inspired architecture.

Find out more about Bucharest

Buzău

The city of Buzău has high tourist potential, which is why we invite you to consider a visit to the area. The main asset in this regard is the historic center, complemented by various museums and monuments, as well as architecturally impressive buildings.

The region’s landscapes are also reasons to plan a vacation here, as natural beauties and recreational areas are found everywhere.

Find out more about Buzău

Brăila

Brăila offers tourists a wide range of activities and attractions. Whether you choose to take a stroll along the Danube promenade, visit the zoo, or admire historical monuments, you can enjoy any of these experiences here.

Find out more about Brăila

Curtea de Argeș

Curtea de Argeș is the town that was the capital of Wallachia during the medieval period. Thus, a visit here offers a wealth of historical and cultural insights.

Among the must-see attractions are: the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, Manole’s Fountain, the Royal Court, and the Municipal Museum.

Târgoviște

Târgoviște is a small town, but this does not diminish its tourist potential. The town is closely associated with the history of Vlad Țepeș, who resided at the Royal Court—a valuable monument of the area.

Tourist Attractions

The Palace of the Parliament is often associated by many architects with Buckingham Palace in London. The building has witnessed the political changes Romania has undergone.

The “Dimitrie Gusti” Village Museum is located in Bucharest at 28-30 Kiseleff Road. Spanning 14 hectares, it is the most visited tourist attraction in the country. Here, you can experience traditional Romanian life through its 380 monuments, 60,000 heritage objects, and 250,000 archival documents.

The Arch of Triumph is a national symbol commemorating Romania’s victory in World War I. The building was modeled after the French version and stands 27 meters tall.

Victoria Palace is the seat of the Romanian Government and is listed as a historical monument. The building was constructed in the neoclassical architectural style between 1937 and 1944.

The Royal Court is located in Dâmbovița County and is a complex of medieval buildings that served as residences for the princes of Wallachia. The complex includes the Royal Palace, the Chindia Tower, the Church of St. Vineri, and the Great Royal Church.

The Curtea de Argeș Monastery was built between 1515 and 1517 and is considered one of Romania’s most precious architectural constructions. It is located in Curtea de Argeș, at 1 Basarabilor Boulevard.

The Mud Volcanoes are a unique site, which is why it has been declared a protected national interest area. Although there are other such sites in Romania, the one in Buzău is the most renowned. Given that eruptions are relatively frequent, you should wear appropriate footwear, such as rubber boots.

Peleș Castle is a symbolic building of the Neo-Renaissance architectural style and was constructed at the request of King Carol I, Romania’s first king. The building holds significant historical importance, symbolizing national independence and state consolidation. The castle is located in Sinaia, at 2 Peleșului Alley.

Poienari Fortress is situated on the peak of a mountain in Argeș County. The fortress was one of Vlad the Impaler’s residences and served as a stronghold against the Ottomans.

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