Attraction Guide: National Museum of Art of Romania, Bucharest, Romania

National Museum of Art of Romania Guide

Discover Romanian Art and History at the National Museum of Art Guide

The National Museum of Art of Romania (MNAR) is the country's largest and most important art museum, housed in the former Royal Palace in Revolution Square, Bucharest. It offers a comprehensive overview of Romanian art from the medieval period to the present day, as well as a significant collection of international art. A visit to the MNAR is a journey through Romanian history and culture, told through the lens of its artistic heritage. The Royal Palace, which houses the museum, has a rich and turbulent history. Originally built in the early 19th century, it served as the residence of Romanian royalty until the abolition of the monarchy in 1947. The palace was heavily damaged during the Romanian Revolution of 1989, and the museum was subsequently closed for extensive renovations. It reopened in stages, with the Romanian and European art galleries opening in 2000 and 2001, respectively. The museum's collections include works by renowned Romanian artists such as Nicolae Grigorescu, Ștefan Luchian, and Theodor Aman, as well as masterpieces by European masters like Rembrandt, El Greco, and Rubens. Visitors can explore the museum's diverse collections, which are divided into several sections, including the National Gallery (Romanian art), the European Art Gallery, and the Gallery of Decorative Arts. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, providing valuable insights into the artworks and their historical context. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, lectures, and workshops throughout the year. Don't miss the opportunity to admire the palace's architecture and the surrounding Revolution Square, a significant site in Romanian history.