The National Military Circle, Bucharest

The National Military Circle building has been in place since 1912. Designed by Romanian architects D. Maimarolu, V. Stefanescu and E. Doneaud it features French neoclassical style and was intended to serve social, cultural and educational needs of the Romanian army. Currently, it accommodates art shows and book presentations, and other public events.

The building contains numerous reception halls and meeting rooms, a theater, a bookshop, and art galleries. The so-called Marble Hall is one of the most remarkable gems of Romanian architecture, richly adorned with a stunning collection of swords, stilettos, shields, spears, helmets, arrows, statues of winged victories and deities of war, creating a true military atmosphere. The extension of the Marble Hall is the Moorish Hall – clad in quality wood paneling with discreet ornamental motifs. The ceiling is made of boxes, decorated with stylized floral motifs and covered in gold leaf.

The Byzantine Hall takes its name from the Byzantine-style conception that features specific elements of the Romanian traditional art. The Gothic hall, named so for the Gothic architectural ambiance, is characterized by broken pointed arches and simple chandeliers, while the Norwegian Hall is inspired by the specific atmosphere of Northern Europe, including chandeliers in the shape of Viking ships, wooden ceiling with beams finished in consoles, representing fantastic animal faces, also inspired by Scandinavian mythology, creating the feel of old Nordic interiors.

An impressive double-sloped marble staircase, leading to the second floor, is designed so that, while ascending it, the visitor has a chance to gradually acquaint themselves with the ambiance and admire the interior.

The onsite Army Restaurant, located in one of the most sumptuous halls of the Palace, has been in service since 1951. The enclosure consists of elegant partitions, roundabouts masked by ample plush curtains, and balconies with baroque hardware. The venue can seat up to 400 guests.