Beneath the serene canopy of green lies a tale of transformations. We are standing at the edge of Parcul Bordei. This park in Bucharest has witnessed royal hunts, forbidden grounds, and legal battles.
Parcul Bordei’s story begins in 1932. The Bucharest Municipality purchased this land from the Marmorosch Blank Bank. The price was 16 million lei. That was about $110,000 back then. King Carol II officially opened Parcul Bordei in 1938.
But the park’s history isn’t all sunshine and leisurely strolls. In the 1980s, public access was prohibited. Parcul Bordei became a specially protected zone. Why? Because it was close to Nicolae Ceaușescu’s residence. Imagine this green space, once open to all, now reserved for the elite.
After the fall of the communist regime, Parcul Bordei returned to the people. But its troubles weren’t over. In 2003, the General Council of Bucharest changed the land’s status. It became private property. An entrepreneur named Costică Constanda planned to build houses here.
Senator Marius Marinescu stepped in. In 2007, he proposed a law to declare the land public property. Senators Ion Iliescu and Nicolae Văcăroiu co-signed it. The law passed. Parcul Bordei was saved.
However, Costică Constanda fought back. He claimed he hadn’t received enough compensation. Litigation dragged on for years. In 2022, Mayor Nicușor Dan announced an agreement. The municipality would pay the Constanda family approximately 125 million euros in installments. A hefty price for a park.
Today, Parcul Bordei offers a peaceful retreat. You can find locals enjoying picnics. Others read books. The park’s recent renovation adds a modern touch.
Floreasca Lake borders the park. A small island sits in the middle, connected by a bridge. The views are wonderful, like a mini delta.
Take a walk along the lake’s edge. But be warned, you can’t bypass the entire lake. You’ll have to return on the same side.
Parcul Bordei is more than just a green space. It’s a testament to the city’s struggles. It is a story of power, greed, and the fight for public space. As you wander through Parcul Bordei, remember its turbulent past. Appreciate the fact that this space remains open for all to enjoy. Parcul Bordei stands as a reminder that even after many changes and legal clashes it is still a green place in the city.