CEC Palace, Bucharest

Nestled in the heart of Bucharest, the CEC Palace stands as a testament to Romania's architectural grandeur and historical depth. This exquisite edifice, with its eclectic French-inspired design, was completed in 1900 and originally housed the headquarters of the state-owned savings bank, Caja de Economii și Consemnațiuni (CEC).

The palace's striking facade, characterized by its opulent neoclassical features, is a focal point along Calea Victoriei, one of the city's most prominent thoroughfares. The building's most distinctive feature is its dome, which not only adds to the skyline but also symbolizes the financial stability that the institution represented for the Romanian people.

Designed by French architect Paul Gottereau, the CEC Palace is adorned with ornate decorations, including Corinthian columns and an impressive entrance guarded by lion sculptures. The interior is just as majestic, with lavish decorations, intricate ceiling frescoes, and a grandiose marble staircase that captures the essence of the period's opulence.

Today, the CEC Palace remains a treasured piece of Romania's cultural heritage. While it no longer serves as a bank, the building has been meticulously preserved and is now a popular venue for prestigious events and exhibitions. Its timeless elegance continues to draw both locals and tourists, who come to admire its architectural beauty and historical significance.