Bucharest, Romania

Insight Into the Palace of Parliament

Explore Bucharest’s Seat of Power Walk through the halls of the second-largest administrative building in the world, known as “The People’s Palace.” Intended to be the headquarters of Romania’s government and built by the country’s communist dictator, Nicolae Ceaușescu, the palace is second in size only to the Pentagon. Beginning in 1984, it took more than 20,000 workers and 700 architects seven years to build this colossal structure; however, Ceaușescu did not live to see its completion, as he was executed on Christmas Day in 1989. Learn about Romania’s political history and admire the palace’s luxurious interior as your guide takes you on a tour through a selection of huge halls and opulent rooms filled with crystal chandeliers and mosaics. During your visit, enjoy a coffee break as you hear tales of how this former Eastern bloc country overcame an oppressive regime to become a member state of the European Union. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.