The church was commissioned by Mircea Ciobanul, a Voivode of Wallachia, around 1559.
It is the only medieval structure remaining in the central part of the Bucharest Old Town.
The surrounding Old Princely Court area was the seat of Wallachian power for centuries.
Saint Anthony is traditionally considered the patron of lost objects and the protector of the poor.
During the communist era, the church remained active despite the demolition of surrounding historic residential blocks.
St. Anthony’s Church (Biserica Sfântul Anton) is the oldest religious building in Bucharest, dating back to its original construction in the 16th century. It served as the royal chapel for the Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche) during the era of the Wallachian princes. The church is famous for housing the miracle-working icon of Saint Anthony the Great. It narrowly survived the Great Fire of 1847, which destroyed most of the surrounding Lipscani neighborhood. The interior features significant 19th-century frescoes and a wooden iconostasis. It acts as a central hub for Orthodox pilgrims visiting the historic city center.
From the pedestrian walkway of Strada Franceză, capturing the church facade framed against the backdrop of the Princely Court ruins.
Visit during the Tuesday morning liturgy, when the church is most active and traditional chants are performed.
Look for the medieval foundation remains of the Old Princely Court visible just outside the church walls.
Keep a respectful distance from congregants who may be waiting in long lines to touch the icon of Saint Anthony.
Do not take photographs during active religious services, and avoid using flash photography near the icons at any time.
Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. Women are encouraged to wear a headscarf, and talking should be kept to a whisper.
