Brukenthal Palace from Avrig – a historical Baroque jewel at the foot of Făgăraş Mountains

The Baron Samuel von Brukenthal (1721-1803), the only representative of the Transylvanian Saxon community who held public positions assigned by the Austrian state, became the governor of Transylvania, between the years 1777-1787. In 1756, the baron was looking for an enchanting place for his summer residence and bought this piece of paradise at the foot of Făgăraş Mountains. Passionate about art and culture, Brukenthal becomes a great art collector.

Inspired by the Viennese architecture, he built on the estate of Avrig a Baroque palace after the model of the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna. The architectural ensemble consists of a main building with three wings and two annexes buildings without storey. The construction is U-shaped structure, with the opening facing a park, which is also in the Baroque style.

After a long time of oblivion and decay, in 2011 began the process of "awakening to life" of the impressive estates. The restoration of the architectural complex intended to recover the charm and the atmosphere from the past time, respecting strictly the architectural vision. The first step was to renovate the orangery located in the middle of the garden which is an attraction for visitors.

Built between 1770-1779, this construction, hosted in the winter, exotic plants brought from all over the world. Now, it houses the center of the guests. To the building's historical charm have been added modern comfort facilities. The large rooms beautifully appointed, the romantic restaurant with panoramic windows overlooking the garden and the two rooms for private parties and corporate events, are already available to the public.

Gradually, also the park with its Baroque gardens will be restored to their original appearance when in the park use to flow Pârâul Morii, feeding the wonderful artesian fountains and various water paths and features. It will be restored the fountains and the gardens will be planted with various plants that will revive the charm of the old botanical garden. The biggest challenge will be the success of the baroque palace restoration, building that dominates the whole ensemble, from a height of 12 meters above the “Olt River Valley”.  

Sources: www.palatulbrukenthalavrig.ro