“Here lies a story etched in stone” begins our exploration of Cimitirul Andronache. This is not just a final resting place. It’s a chronicle of lives and a testament to faith.
Cimitirul Andronache is linked to the Biserica Sfantul Gheorghe Andronache. This church is located in the eastern part of Bucharest. It is guarded by Andronache Forest and the Colentina River. The parish borders Voluntarilor Union Parish to the east. It also neighbours Santa Vineri Colentina Parish to the west. To the north, lies Andronache Forest. The Bucharest Constanta railway passes along its edge. To the south are the parishes of Inaltarea Sfintei Cruci and Ion Creanga.
The church is over 124 years old. It was built on the land of Gheorghe Niculescu-Andronache. He was the initial founder of the church. The Andronache area got its name from him.
Around 1900 the first houses appeared. This happened after the church was built. It stood near the founder’s mansion. A building used as barracks at the time was nearby. Later, it became Andronache’s primary school.
Initially parishioners lived in modest homes. These were connected by undeveloped roads. Communication with Bucharest was difficult. They had to travel 4 km to the edge of the capital. This was known as Bariera Mosilor.
Construction of the Andronache Church began in 1890. It finished in 1900. The church was dedicated to Saint Great Martyr George. This was after the founder Gheorghe Niculescu-Andronache. The church’s paintings were completed in 1906. Oreste Cantini an Italian painter created them. He used a neoclassical style with oil paints.
The families of Alexandra Gh Ioanin and her sister Elena Vladoianu helped build the church. They fulfilled the wishes of their parents Eufrosina and Gheorghe Niculescu-Andronache.
The church has an eclectic style. It combines neo-Byzantine and neo-romantic elements. It reflects the architectural trends of its time. The style is specifically neo-Romanian. The church has a harmonious design. It is a three-lobed building with three towers. One tower is on the nave and two smaller ones are on the narthex.
Four pillars support a stone canopy at the entrance. Saint Nicholas is painted on the vault. A dove in flight toward the starry sky is on each side. Above the inscription is an icon of Saint Great Martyr George. To its left and right are mosaics of the Apostles Peter and Paul. Ion Vasu painted these.
The church covers about 200 square meters. It stands 20 meters tall. The facades feature brick and Albesti stone. These are carved with Brancovenesc-style motifs.
The church dominates the area. It is known for its height and beauty. The courtyard covers 3,800 square meters. An alley leads to the entrance. It is lined with linden and oak trees. Firs birches and thuja trees add to the picturesque setting.
The founders’ tomb is to the right. It is near the church wall. It has a black Swedish marble cross. Small pillars are connected by a wrought-iron chain.
The church’s paintings were restored several times. This occurred in 1934 1966 1978 and 1987. The two towers damaged by earthquakes were reinforced. The facades were repaired from 1975 to 1977. The old plaster was removed down to the brick. It was replastered maintaining the brick rows.
Extensive repairs were made between 2017 and 2024. The mural paintings icons and furniture were restored. A new marble floor and underfloor heating were installed. The windows and doors were replaced. The electrical system was updated. The roof was repaired and new gutters were installed. The facades brickwork and stone elements were restored.
The furniture is made of carved oak and mahogany. The pulpit and staircase are made of oak and iron. Alexandra Gh Ioanin donated the land for the church. She received the title of founder in 1934. In 1920 the church was donated to the Metropolis of Ungrovlahia. This included its valuables furniture courtyard and a 45000 square meter cemetery. The cemetery is 1 km from the church.
The church was consecrated on October 25 1920. It opened for worship. The founders built the parish house in 1931. The bell tower was completed and the churchyard paved in 2001. A soup kitchen with 40 seats was built in the cemetery.
The Andronache Parish organizes trips to monasteries. The parish runs a program for children. It also has a youth department. In 2024 the church received a relic of Saint Great Martyr George.
On September 8 2024 the church was re-consecrated. It received a second patron saint. This was the Nativity of the Mother of God.
As we wander through Cimitirul Andronache remember its story. It is a story of faith community and enduring legacy.