What You Will Do
You will discover the amazing story of the rise to power of the Romanian communist party and the unparalleled cult of personality of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. You will learn how Ceausescu’s craving for applause and recognition led to his overturn in the most violent anti-communist revolution of 1989.
On a tour full of contrasts you will see a communist district built for the elites and one designed for regular working-class families, and learn about day-to-day life during communism, the economy, the propaganda, the relationship with religion.
You will explore the New Civic Center and the exterior of the Palace of Parliament and learn about the achievements of Romanian architects, but also the sacrifices for the local community as the old architecture changed so much during the 1980s.
You will also have an honest conversation about the present-day socio-political movements in Romania and its future as a member of the European Union.
You will finish the walk in the old town.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
1
Piaka Revolukiei
30 minutes
You will stand in the place where Nicolae Ceausescu held his last speech in 1989 and hear the story of the most violent uprising in Eastern Europe at the end of communism.
2
Piața 21 Decembrie 1989
30 minutes
You will walk around in the square considered the KM 0 of Romanian democracy and freedom of speech, where all major protests have been held since the fall of communism.
3
Bulevardul Dimitrie Cantemir
30 minutes
You will explore a typical working-class neighbourhood and see how the 1970s grey communist blocks are getting reinvented thanks to colorful street art.
4
Parcul Carol I
30 minutes
You will get to the highest point in Bucharest, on Filaret Hill, to discover the Monument of the Heroes for the Freedom of the People and of the Motherland.
5
Manastirea Antim
30 minutes
You go behind the communist blocks to find one of the oldest religious constructions in Bucharest. You will hear the story of the complicated relationship between state and religion during communism.
6
Palace of Parliament
30 minutes
You will explore the exteriors of the Palace of Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world, designed by Nicolae Ceausescu as the ultimate home-court advantage to humble world leaders.
7
Bulevardul Unirii
30 minutes
You will discover the new Civic Center of Bucharest, the most ambitious project of the Nicolae Ceausescu, built with massive demolitions and sacrifice to local communities and old town architecture.
Show 6 more stops