Piata Unirii

Piata Unirii is one of the biggest squares in Bucharest and is nowadays considered the very centre of the city. It unfortunately lost most of its ancient character as historical buildings and known landmarks constructed in Art Deco, Brâncovenesc and Neoclassical style were levelled during the communist era to redesign the square. What remained after the reconstruction was a big commercial and transportation hub. Presently, the central park is surrounded by a building up to 10 stories high, of which the Unirea Shopping Mall with its neon lights and huge electronic billboards is the most visible.

In fact, Union Square is a passage point where thousands of citizens cross each other daily to catch one of the two metro lines or several buses and trolleys. Next to the park on the west side of the square lies the beautiful Bulevardul Unirii with the Palace of the Parliament forming the background. If you want to know more about Bucharesters, then head towards the north side of the square, between the exits of the subway. Sit on one of the benches and watch locals—gypsy sellers advertising their merchandise, people lining up for a covrig (a salty doughnut type quick snack), old grandmothers begging for a piece of bread, locals running to catch a bus or metro etc.