Located at the crossroad of Elisabeta Boulevard and Calea Victoriei, this emblematic building of Bucharest was built from the donations of Romanian officers. In 1876, the officers from the Bucharest Garrison set up the Military Club, which, until then had organized its meetings in various rented spaces. Over time, they wanted to have their own building where they could meet. In 1898 they managed to obtain land from the Ministry of Domains, but the actual works were started only in 1911. When Romania has entered in war in August 1916, the building was completed. The German command was installed there.
The inauguration of the palace took place on February 4, 1923, in the presence of King Ferdinand and Queen Maria. The architect Dimitrie Maimarolu was the one who coordinated the works, managing to achieve a remarkably beautiful construction. The 10 sumptuous halls are ennobled with works of art, furniture, chandeliers and stuccos that create an ambiance of perfect stylistic unity.
The Marble Hall, the place where famous balls took place, is an eclectic masterpiece. Corinthian white marble columns support a wide vault, richly ornamented with floral and geometric motifs, dominated by symbolic military elements.
The Moorish hall has walls covered in quality wood panels with discreet ornamental motifs. The ceiling is made of cassettes, decorated with stylised floral motifs covered with gold leaf.
The Byzantine Hall is decorated in Byzantine style, with elements specific to traditional Romanian art.
The Gothic Hall has a Gothic architectural ambiance, characterized by broken arches and simple chandeliers with beautifully drawn floors in Bavarian Gothic style.
The Norwegian Hall is equipped with ship-shaped chandeliers. The wooden ceiling rests on beams ending in consoles with animal faces inspired by the Scandinavian mythology.
A monumental marble staircase, the Stairs of Honour, ascends to the second floor, as in a majestic ceremonial. The visitor thus has the opportunity to gradually enter into the ambiance of wonderful interiors.
If you want to fill your soul with art, beauty and elegance, do not hesitate to visit this fabulous palace, where you could even dine, in the Restaurant Room.
Sources:
https://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palatul_Cercului_Militar_Na%C8%9Bional#/media/File:CerculMilitarNational-SalaDeMarmura-2010.05.25.jpg http://www.bucurestiivechisinoi.ro/2010/05/palatul-cercului-militar-national/
Elena Radu
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