National Museum of Art of Romania
Photo: unknown, via Wikimedia Commons
The National Museum of Art of Romania, located in Bucharest’s Royal Palace, houses extensive collections of Romanian medieval and modern art, as well as European art.
Planning your visit
The National Museum of Art of Romania occupies the former Royal Palace on Revolution Square, and the building carries the country's twentieth century in its fabric: the royal residence until the monarchy was abolished in 1947, then a state museum, then badly damaged in December 1989 when the square became the centre of the revolution and gunfire hit the building. Bullet damage remains visible.
The Romanian medieval collection is the outstanding holding — icons, frescoes removed from monastery walls, and liturgical objects from a Byzantine-influenced tradition that most Western visitors will not have encountered.
The modern Romanian galleries cover Nicolae Grigorescu, Theodor Aman and, most significantly, Constantin Brâncuși, who transformed twentieth-century sculpture.
The European collection includes El Greco, Rembrandt, Rubens, Monet and Sisley, assembled by the royal family.
It sits opposite the former Central Committee building. Allow two hours. Bookable options include guided tours. Current availability is listed below.
Before you book
Where is National Museum of Art of Romania?
National Museum of Art of Romania is in Bucharest, Romania. The map on this page marks its exact location.
How long should I allow for National Museum of Art of Romania?
Allow two hours. That is the time the collection itself takes at an unhurried pace, before any queue.
Is National Museum of Art of Romania free to enter?
Yes, general admission to National Museum of Art of Romania is free. Guided tours and special exhibitions may still be charged separately.
What are the opening hours of National Museum of Art of Romania?
Wednesday–Friday 10:00–18:00 Saturday–Sunday 11:00–19:00 Tuesday closed. Hours change on public holidays, so check the official site before travelling.
Do I need to book National Museum of Art of Romania in advance?
Guided tours run to a fixed schedule and small group sizes, so they are usually booked ahead.
