Day 3: Bucharest - The Vibrant Capital
On the third day, we finally reached Bucharest, the Romanian capital, which is both the easternmost and southernmost point of our journey. What awaited us here gave us a bit of a culture shock. Just recently in the quiet city of Sibiu, we now found ourselves on bustling streets filled with busy, bustling people.
Our first stop was the Palace of the Parliament. This is one of the largest buildings in the world by area. Besides an impressive number of over 1,000 rooms, the palace also boasts an underground nuclear bunker. We couldn't miss a tour of this building, commissioned by dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu.
Speaking of Nicolae Ceaușescu: Revolution Square, where the communist dictatorship ended in 1989, is also worth a visit. In the middle of the square stands what locals call the “Potato on a Stick.” However, the sculpture has nothing to do with food. It is actually the Revolution Monument, the Memorial of Rebirth; a pyramid with a metallic crown intended as a symbol of freedom.
We continued through the lively streets to the Athenaeum. This is undoubtedly one of Romania's most significant cultural sites and an architectural jewel. Impressed by its beauty, we found a nearby café where we could reflect on what we had experienced. Afterward, we went to bed early, as another long drive and a packed day awaited us the next day.
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