Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza

Did you ever hear of a park with three names? Right here, in Bucharest’s Sector 3, sprawls Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza, also known as Titan Park or IOR Park. Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza opened its gates in 1970, a sprawling 85-hectare green lung in the heart of the city. Originally designed around the natural Lake Titan, Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza serves as a vital recreational space for residents of the Titan and Dristor neighborhoods. The curious acronym “IOR” comes from a nearby factory, Întreprinderea Optică Română. Lake Titan, the park’s centerpiece, is divided by the Liviu Rebreanu Bridge, creating two distinct sections, Titan Lake 1 and Titan Lake 2. Five islands dot the lake’s surface: “Pensioners’ Island,” “Arts Island,” “Dogs’ Island,” “Fishermen’s Island,” and “Ducks’ Island.” A wooden church, Biserica “Pogorârea Sfântului Duh,” stands near the bridge. Constructed between 1994 and 1996, it showcases a charming Maramureșan style. However, Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza has faced recent challenges. In 2005, 12 hectares were controversially returned to private owners. Since then, the area has suffered illegal deforestation, fires, and even tree poisoning. Local authorities are considering expropriation to protect what remains of this cherished green space. Between early 2022 and August 2023, 15 fires ravaged the retroceded area. Over two hectares of green space were lost. While some fires were attributed to discarded cigarettes, others were deemed deliberately set. Sadly, the destruction continues, fueling the local community’s call for urgent intervention. They strive to reclaim and restore this vital part of Parcul Alexandru Ioan Cuza, preserving its beauty for generations to come.