Romanian Peasant Museum

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Romania at the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant, located on Șoseaua Kiseleff near Piața Victoriei in Bucharest. Honored as the "European Museum of the Year" in 1996, this leading European institution of popular arts and traditions is housed in a historic monument building designed by Nicolae Ghica-Budești that incorporates traditional Romanian architectural features. Inside, you will encounter an impressive collection of over 100,000 objects reflecting Romanian peasant life, including vibrant textiles, traditional costumes, intricate ceramics, and sacred icons.

Originally founded in 1906 and reopened in February 1990, the building has a complex history, having once housed a museum dedicated to the Communist party. During your visit, you can explore the famous "house in the house" exhibit, featuring the historic home of peasant Antonie Mogos from Gorj County. This unique display uses an inventive, non-naturalistic approach where outbuildings are suggested by fragments, and you can peer into the exposed attic from a elevated platform.

Additionally, you can head downstairs to view an ironic basement display showcasing surviving artifacts from the building's former Communist era.

What to see at Romanian Peasant Museum

• Extensive collection of over 100,000 textiles, costumes, icons, and ceramics
• The iconic non-naturalistic "house in the house" exhibit from Ceauru village
• Traditional Romanian architectural features designed by Nicolae Ghica-Budești
• An ironic basement display featuring artifacts from the museum's Communist era
• Named "European Museum of the Year" for 1996

Visiting tips

Make sure to step onto the viewing platform at the "house in the house" exhibit so you can peer directly into the exposed attic space.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Romanian Peasant Museum is easy to reach on Bucharest’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Palace of the Parliament. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Bucharest travel guide.