Time stood still as I gazed upon the Biserica Ortodoxă Cărămidarii de Sus. Its history whispered from every weathered stone. This isn’t just a building friends. It’s a testament to faith resilience and the enduring spirit of a community.
The Biserica Ortodoxă Cărămidarii de Sus stands as a silent observer of Bucharest’s tumultuous past. Its foundations were laid in 1805. Protopop Nicolae Trasnea and others built the first structure. It was a simple nave-shaped church. A humble beginning for what would become a beacon of hope.
But life wasn’t kind. Earthquakes in 1827 and 1838 damaged the church beyond repair. It was demolished in 1847. Yet the spirit of the community wouldn’t be broken. With help from the Mitropolie and dedicated parishioners the church rose again. It was consecrated in 1848. It retained its original form though initially it was unpainted.
The Biserica Ortodoxă Cărămidarii de Sus faced more trials. A fire in 1875 caused by a passing train destroyed its roof. More repairs followed in 1893 after a devastating flood. In 1911 its paintings were cleaned and a parish house was built. The church continued to be renovated and improved throughout the 20th century. Consolidation with metal tie rods a new roof stained glass windows and new oak furniture transformed it. Its paintings were redone in 1955. Under Patriarch Justin Moisescu it underwent a major restoration in 1983 and was repainted in 1988.
Look closer. Notice the single nave the semicircular apse. The narthex features a spiral staircase leading to an octagonal dome surrounded by four smaller towers. The six semicircular windows adorned with stained glass let in soft light. A small vestibule with a classic pediment and a medallion of Saint Nicholas above the entrance welcomes you inside. The building is a beautiful mix of architectural styles.
The Biserica Ortodoxă Cărămidarii de Sus is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a living testament to the enduring power of faith. It represents the resilience of a community that rebuilt its spiritual home time and time again. It stands as a symbol of hope. It embodies the enduring spirit of Bucharest itself. Remember this story when you see churches standing strong across the city. They all have stories just as rich and complex. This is Biserica Ortodoxă Cărămidarii de Sus. A living legacy.