Enjoy the scenery and serenity of Carol Park, a large urban escape filled with monuments, landmark sites, trees, plants and shrubs. It is dedicated to the first king of Romania, Carol I, who had a long reign from 1866 to 1914.
Stroll, jog or cycle along picturesque tree-lined paths. Rent a boat and paddle around the lake. Walk up the long, central alley to the park's principal highlight, the Nation’s Heroes Memorial. This 157-foot-tall (48-meter) structure has large red granite arches on top of a rotunda that once housed the remains of prominent Communist leaders. These have been interred in other cemeteries and the monument is now the final resting place of several World War I soldiers.
From its stairs, enjoy views of the city, which include the Romanian Palace of Parliament. In front of the monument is an eternal flame guarded by two soldiers.
Get around to the park’s many other sites of interest. See the Zodiac Fountain, stop at the late 19th-century Cantacuzino Fountain and admire the large statues that depict two giant naked youths. Tepes Castle looks like a medieval stronghold, but actually dates from 1906. This old water tower now serves as the headquarters of the veterans’ association of the Romanian Army.
While you are in the park, visit the Technical Museum Dimitrie Leonida, which was founded in 1909 by Dimitrie Leonida, a Romanian scientist. Inside are thousands of electrical, technical and engineering exhibits, including a car from 1888 and the first cylinder steam engine used in Romanian industry. The park also encompasses an open-air theater, which replicates a Roman arena and occasionally hosts concerts.
Carol Park is located in central Bucharest, a short walk from the parliament building. Parking is scarce in the city center, although if you drive you may be lucky and find a free space in nearby streets. Alternatively, come by bus or take the metro and get off at Eroii Revolutiei station.
