Curtea Veche | Bucharest

Physical & Material Composition The archaeological site comprises brick masonry foundations, subterranean vaulted cellars, and stone columns. The primary material is red Roman-style brick bonded with thick mortar layers, characteristic of 15th-century Wallachian construction.

The remains cover an area of approximately 5,000 square meters. Surviving architectural elements include limestone door frames and fragmented floor tiles from the court's chancel.

Geographical Coordinates The site is located at 44.4301° N, 26.1013° E in the Lipscani district. It sits 150 meters north of the Dâmbovița River and is bounded by Strada Franceză to the south and Strada Șepcari to the east.

Access Logistics Pedestrian entry is located on Strada Franceză via a metal gate system. The site is situated 350 meters west of the Piața Unirii 1 Metro Station, which serves Lines M1, M2, and M3.

Historical Markers The initial fortress was constructed in 1459 under the decree of Vlad III Dracula (Vlad the Impaler). Major reconstruction occurred in 1715 under Nicholas Mavrocordatos, followed by a total abandonment after the 1798 earthquake and subsequent fire.

Insider Observation The western foundation wall contains a 15cm section of original stucco featuring a geometric relief pattern. A specific drainage channel made of hollowed limestone is visible near the entrance to the southern cellar.

Surrounding Environmental Context The Biserica Sfântul Anton (Church of Saint Anthony), the city's oldest church, is located 20 meters to the west. The site is immediately adjacent to the Hanu' lui Manuc, a traditional caravanserai constructed in 1808.