National Museum of Romanian History

Muzeul Național de Istorie a României

Set in the grand former Post Office Palace on Calea Victoriei, it displays treasures including the Romanian crown jewels and a replica of Trajan's Column. A key stop for grasping the nation's long and layered history.

Things to do

• Marvel at the Romanian Crown Jewels — The Historic Treasury holds the royal crowns, scepters, and gold artifacts including the dazzling Pietroasele treasure known as the Hen with Golden Chicks.
• Study the replica of Trajan's Column — A full-scale plaster cast of the Roman column depicts the Dacian Wars, letting you examine every carved scene up close in one hall.
• Explore the Lapidarium — Wander among ancient stone inscriptions, sculptures, and Roman-era carvings collected from across Romania.
• Admire the neoclassical Post Office Palace exterior — Photograph the grand 1900 facade with its Doric columns on the pedestrian-friendly Calea Victoriei.
• View the prehistoric and Dacian collections — See Neolithic artifacts, gold pieces, and relics tracing Romania's earliest civilizations through Roman times.
• Stroll historic Calea Victoriei afterward — Walk Bucharest's oldest and most elegant avenue lined with palaces, cafes, and boutiques.

Food to try

• Sarmale — Minced meat and rice rolled in cabbage or vine leaves, a staple of Romanian home cooking often served with polenta and sour cream.
• Mici (mititei) — Grilled skinless sausages of seasoned minced meat, a beloved street and pub snack eaten with mustard and bread.
• Papanași — Fried or boiled cheese doughnuts topped with sour cream and sweet berry jam, a classic Romanian dessert.
• Ciorbă de burtă — A sour tripe soup enriched with garlic and cream, popular in the taverns near the old town.
• Covrigi — Warm Bucharest-style pretzels sold from street kiosks, perfect for a quick bite while walking Calea Victoriei.

Local customs & good to know

• Check which sections are open — The museum has undergone long renovations, so the Treasury and Lapidarium may be accessible while other halls remain closed.
• Photography rules vary by hall — Photos are often restricted or require a separate ticket in the Historic Treasury, so ask staff before shooting.
• Carry cash for small purchases — Street vendors and some kiosks along Calea Victoriei prefer Romanian lei in cash over cards.
• Combine with nearby landmarks — The museum sits within walking distance of the Old Town and the National Bank, making it easy to build a half-day itinerary.

Nearby

• Old Town (Lipscani) — 0 km
• Stavropoleos Monastery — 0 km
• Bucharest (Wallachia) — 0 km
• Cișmigiu Gardens — 1 km