What secrets lie within these ancient walls? We are standing before the Biserica Sfinții Apostoli. This Romanian Orthodox church is dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. Its story is one of resilience and transformation.
The Biserica Sfinții Apostoli wasn’t always like this. A wooden church stood here in the late 16th century. By 1585, a monastery was established. It fell under the protection of a Bulgarian monastery. It was then known as the Tarnovo Monastery. Before 1677, its allegiance shifted. It then reported to the Constantinople Patriarchate.
In 1636, Prince Matei Basarab built a stone church on the site. This replaced the old wooden structure. Ștefan Cantacuzino later added a bell tower and portico. These additions enhanced its grandeur.
Look closely at the western wall. A 1715 inscription commemorates these additions. It also features portraits of Basarab and Cantacuzino. Their wives and family members are also depicted. The Wallachian coat of arms is also visible.
The Biserica Sfinții Apostoli has faced numerous challenges. Earthquakes in 1802 and 1838 caused significant damage. The original three masonry domes were replaced. A single wooden dome took their place. A restoration in 1936 rebuilt the bell tower. The interior paintings were retouched. Further repairs followed the earthquakes of 1940 and 1977.
Notice the cross-shaped design. The church is 27.4 meters long and 7 meters wide. Its walls are remarkably thick. They measure between 1.4 and 1.8 meters. The dome above the nave and the bell tower are made of masonry. Large windows illuminate the interior.
Consider the narthex. It has a spherical ceiling. It rests on pendentives. The portico features three arches on the western facade. Two arches adorn each side. Stone columns with floral capitals support these arches.
The facades are typical of 18th-century design. They are divided into two sections by a string course. The lower half features rounded frames. Large windows of similar size punctuate this section. The upper part showcases pairs of arched frames.
The Biserica Sfinții Apostoli is more than just a building. It is a repository of history. Carved stone graves are found in the portico and narthex. They are also located outside the church.
The surrounding area has its own story. The parish house was built in 1927. Cristofi Cerchez designed it. Archaeological excavations in 1956 revealed large arched rooms. These likely dated back to Matei Basarab’s time. They may have been part of the refectory.
This church was almost lost forever. Ceaușescu’s plans threatened its existence. The St Apostles’ Church was relocated to save it from destruction.
Today, the Biserica Sfinții Apostoli stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. It is a reminder of Bucharest’s rich history. It is a symbol of hope. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty. Remember its journey through time.