Bucharest: The City That Never Sleeps (Except for Siesta Time)

Bucharest, also known as the “Paris of the East” (by people who have obviously never been to Paris or the east), is the capital city of Romania - a country that’s famous for being confused with Rome (even by people who claim to be experts in geography).

History

Bucharest was founded in the 15th century by Vlad the Impaler, who, according to legend, decided to create the city in revenge for all the people who mocked him for his vampire-like tendencies. The city grew rapidly and became an important cultural and economic center in Eastern Europe.

In the early 20th century, Bucharest was known for its elegant boulevards, beautiful architecture, and sophisticated nightlife. But then, communism happened, and the city lost some of its glamour. Today, Bucharest is a mix of old and new - a place where horse-drawn carriages share the road with shiny cars and tourists get lost in the maze of streets and alleyways.

Culture

Bucharest is a city of contradictions. On one hand, it’s a place where museums and art galleries coexist with nightclubs and casinos. On the other hand, it’s a place where tradition meets modernity - where old-fashioned restaurants serve local delicacies next to hipster cafes that offer avocado toast.

But if there’s one thing that unites the people of Bucharest, it’s their love for siesta time. That’s right, every day from 2 pm to 4 pm, the city takes a break. Shops close, streets empty, and even the traffic slows down. So, if you’re planning a visit to Bucharest, make sure to bring a pillow and a blanket - you might need them.

Notable Landmarks

One of the most iconic landmarks in Bucharest is the Palace of the Parliament - a massive building that was built by the communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. The building, which is the second-largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon), is a symbol of the excesses of the regime, as well as a popular tourist attraction.

Other notable landmarks include the National Museum of Art of Romania, the Village Museum, and the Arcul de Triumf - a smaller version of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

Conclusion

Bucharest may not be the most glamorous city in Europe, but it has its own charm. It’s a city of contrasts, with a rich history and a vibrant culture. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to experience siesta time - the perfect excuse to take a nap and dream of all the adventures that await you in this fascinating city.