Attraction Guide: Bellu Cemetery, Bucharest, Romania

Bellu Cemetery Guide

Bellu Cemetery: A Serene City of the Dead, A Gallery of Art Guide

Bellu Cemetery, also known as Șerban Vodă Cemetery, is the largest and most famous cemetery in Bucharest, Romania. More than just a burial ground, it's an open-air museum showcasing impressive sculptures, mausoleums, and monuments created by renowned Romanian artists. Walking through Bellu Cemetery is like strolling through a history book, with the graves of prominent figures from Romanian politics, literature, art, and science. The serene atmosphere and artistic beauty make it a unique and captivating destination for visitors. Bellu Cemetery was established in 1858 on land donated by Baron Barbu Bellu, a prominent Romanian politician and philanthropist. The cemetery quickly became the final resting place for Bucharest's elite, attracting the attention of leading sculptors and architects who were commissioned to create elaborate monuments and mausoleums. Over the years, Bellu Cemetery has expanded to include several sections, each with its own distinct character and style. The cemetery is divided into several sections, including the "Artists' Alley," where many famous Romanian artists are buried. Visitors to Bellu Cemetery can explore the vast grounds and admire the impressive collection of sculptures and monuments. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the history of the cemetery and the lives of the individuals buried there. Some of the most notable monuments include the tomb of Ion Luca Caragiale, a famous Romanian playwright, and the mausoleum of Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino, the former Prime Minister. The cemetery offers a peaceful and reflective atmosphere, allowing visitors to contemplate the passage of time and the legacy of those who came before. While there are no culinary traditions associated with the cemetery itself, the surrounding area of Bucharest offers a wide range of Romanian cuisine.