Prince Barbu Ştirbei was the Prime Minister of Romania, making the estate a significant political hub in the early 20th century.
The estate's chapel serves as the burial place for members of the Ştirbei family, including the Prince himself.
The park was designed with a romantic landscape style, integrating the local topography and the nearby lake.
Buftea Film Studios, located on the premises, produced numerous classic Romanian films during the Cold War era.
The palace architecture features distinct pointed arches and decorative masonry typical of neo-Gothic influence in the Wallachian region.
The domain is frequently used as a filming location for both domestic and international historical dramas.
The Ştirbei Domain is a historic 25-hectare estate in Buftea, Romania, originally established by the noble Ştirbei family in the 19th century. The centerpiece is the Ştirbei Palace, a neo-Gothic residence commissioned by Prince Barbu Ştirbei. The property includes an extensive parkland featuring an arboretum with rare species and a private chapel built in the late 19th century. During the communist era, the estate was repurposed and nationalized, eventually serving as a film studio complex for the Buftea Film Studios. Today, the domain functions as a private venue for events, weddings, and cultural festivals. The architecture incorporates influences of the Romanian Romantic style common to local boyar residences. The grounds are connected by walking paths that wind through century-old trees and lakefront areas. It remains one of the best-preserved examples of aristocratic landed estates near Bucharest.
The lakeside view of the neo-Gothic palace facade.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the extensive parkland and gravel paths.
Check the estate's official event calendar before arriving, as private functions may restrict access to certain areas.
Bring a camera, as the combination of historic architecture and mature forest offers excellent lighting for photography.
Do not attempt to enter the palace interior unless you are attending a pre-booked event, as it is often restricted to private use.
Access may be limited or entirely closed to the public during private weddings and large-scale corporate events.
Maintain a respectful tone during visits near the private chapel and respect all marked boundaries for private events.
