Craiova Art Museum
Southwest Oltenia Region
The Craiova Art Museum, located in the Oltenia region of Romania, is a premier cultural institution housed in the magnificent Constantin Mihail Palace. Constructed between 1898 and 1907 by French architect Paul Gottereau, the palace is an architectural gem featuring Carrara marble staircases, Lyon silk wall coverings, Murano glass chandeliers, painted ceilings, gilded stucco, and Venetian mirrors. Historically, the palace belonged to Michael Constantine, one of Romania's wealthiest families, and has hosted notable figures including Romanian kings, the exiled Polish president Ignacy Mościcki, and Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito. Founded in 1954, the museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Romanian art, including works by Theodor Aman, Nicolae Grigorescu, Vasile Popescu, Ștefan Luchian, and Theodor Pallady. A highlight is the gallery dedicated to Constantin Brâncuși, exhibiting six of his early sculptures such as "Vitellius" (1898) and "The Kiss" (1907). The museum not only celebrates Romanian artistic heritage but also offers visitors a richly decorated historic setting, making it a significant tourist attraction in Craiova.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website or contact them by phone to confirm opening hours before planning their visit. Purchasing tickets in advance may help avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The palace features luxurious materials such as Carrara marble, Lyon silk, Murano glass chandeliers, and Venetian mirrors.
- •It hosted notable historical figures including the exiled Polish president Ignacy Mościcki and Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito.
- •The museum exhibits six early sculptures by Constantin Brâncuși, one of Romania's most famous artists.
- •The palace is officially listed as a historic monument by Romania's Ministry of Culture.
History
The Constantin Mihail Palace, now home to the Craiova Art Museum, was built from 1898 to 1907 by French architect Paul Gottereau for Michael Constantine, a member of one of Romania's wealthiest families.
Over the years, the palace hosted Romanian royalty and important international figures, reflecting its social prominence.
The museum itself was established in 1954 to preserve and display Romanian art.
Since then, it has evolved into the main art museum of Craiova, maintaining its status as a cultural landmark and historic monument listed by Romania's Ministry of Culture.
Place Guide
Constantin Mihail Palace Architecture1898-1907
Explore the palace's exquisite architectural features including Carrara marble stairs, silk-covered walls, Murano glass chandeliers, painted ceilings, gilded stucco, and Venetian mirrors, reflecting the opulence of late 19th-century Romanian aristocracy.
Brâncuși Gallery1898-1909
This gallery displays six early sculptures by Constantin Brâncuși, showcasing his development as a pioneering modern sculptor. Key works include "Vitellius" (1898), "Miss Pogany" (1902), and "The Kiss" (1907).
Romanian Masters Paintings
The museum features paintings by prominent Romanian artists such as Theodor Aman, Nicolae Grigorescu, Vasile Popescu, Ștefan Luchian, and Theodor Pallady, offering a comprehensive view of Romania's artistic heritage.
Contact
Phone: 0251 412 342
