Curtea Veche contains the ruins of the medieval princely palace built by Vlad III (Vlad the Impaler) around 1459. These are the oldest historical remains in Bucharest and mark the founding of the city. The site includes palace ruins, the Annunciation Church (1559), and a bronze bust of Vlad Tepes. The name means Old Princely Court in Romanian.
Photo permit 15 RON extra. Groups 10+ get guide
Any time of year. Evening for atmospheric lighting. Combine with Old Town exploration
Heart of Old Town on Strada Franceza. Walk from Piata Unirii metro (10 min) or Universitate (8 min)
Open-air archaeological ruins in pedestrian area. Modest remains but significant historical importance as birthplace of Bucharest
NOTE: Closed for renovation (2025). Palace of Vlad the Impaler (1459). Dracula bust visible free from outside. Metro Piata Unirii 2. Lipscani district. Check status at Muzeul Municipiului Bucuresti
faq.subtitle Curtea Veche (Old Princely Court)
Yes, Vlad III (Vlad the Impaler) who built this palace in 1459 inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula character. His bust stands at the entrance.
Only foundation walls and some columns remain. The palace was destroyed and rebuilt several times. Most visible ruins date from 15th-17th centuries.
Useful tips for visiting Curtea Veche (Old Princely Court)
The market is best on weekends when all vendors are present. Come early for freshest produce. Local cheese and wine are must-buys. Cash preferred at most stalls.
Average temperature by month
-8°
-2°-10°
-1°-6°
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