Did you know that Cimitirul Căbelu is also known as Bellu Cemetery and as “Bellu’s Garden of Souls”? It is Bucharest’s largest and most famous cemetery. Today we will discover its secrets.
Bellu Cemetery was founded on land donated by Baron Barbu Bellu. The land included an orchard with oranges. It also included the territory of the Vacaresti monastery. The monastery had three windmills.
The need for this cemetery arose from European urbanism and hygiene policies. The Romanian administration adapted these policies during the Turkish occupation. In May 1850, the area was divided for Orthodox, Catholic, Armenian, Protestant, Jewish, and Turkish cemeteries.
Bellu Cemetery was conceived as an Orthodox cemetery. However, it includes exceptions. One notable exception is the occult monument dedicated to Iulia Hasdeu. She was the genius child of a Romanian writer. She died at 17 in Paris.
The first “inhabitants” of Bellu Cemetery were moved from cemeteries around churches. Bucharest developed with neighborhoods called “mahalale”. The church was the civic center, and the cemetery was a public space. Moving cemeteries outside the urban area reduced public activity around them.
Today, Bellu Cemetery occupies 220000 square meters. It has become a gallery of Romanian historical personalities. Famous Romanians lie here. These include the poet Mihai Eminescu and the singer Maria Tanase. Important ministers, writers, actors, architects, and bankers are also buried here.
Romantic sculptures give a vivid impression. They have realistic execution and details. Architectural heritage includes decorated sepulchers. These are in Neogothic and Art Deco styles. The chapel was made by architect Orascu who is also buried here. Three mausoleums were made by architect Ion Mincu. He promoted the Neo-Romanian style. The University of Architecture of Bucharest borrowed his name.
The solemnity and beauty of the funeral monuments create a unique atmosphere. Green vegetation hosts eternal mourning. This transforms it into birdsong. Today, visiting Bellu Cemetery is an escape to a green island. It is a hospitable “garden of souls” in a crowded city.
One of the cemetery’s special features is its alley of writers. Many Romanian poets, novelists, and dramatists have their final resting places here. Their works have been translated into different languages. Mihai Eminescu’s grave always stands out. It has many flowers and candles. These offerings reflect the Romanian people’s admiration.
Another notable aspect of Bellu Cemetery is the number of busts and life-size statues. Unique funeral stones and elaborate mausoleums dot the landscape. The mausoleum of the Gheorghieff bankers is a majestic example of artistry. Architect Ion Mincu built it and Federick Storck sculpted it. The brothers made many donations. People still remember them when they pass by.
Bellu Cemetery has many stories to tell. Many relatives have chosen to make realistic statues of loved ones. Noteworthy are the lady with the umbrella. Also the father mourning his daughter. And the mausoleum of Iulia Haşdeu. Her father tried to communicate with her spirit through séances.
Bellu Cemetery is more than a burial ground. It is a historical and artistic treasure. Its monuments and stories offer a unique glimpse into Romania’s past.