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Museums #2 in Câmpina

Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum

4.6 · 3,005 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum, Bulevardul Carol I 199, Câmpina 105600, Romania
Interesting facts
1

The castle was built between 1893 and 1896 following detailed 'instructions' Hasdeu claimed to have received from his daughter during séances.

2

The building features a specific chamber, the 'Blue Room,' which contains a piano and a statue of Iulia Hasdeu.

3

The architecture follows a strict numerical symbolism, with the numbers 3, 7, and 9 recurring in the design of rooms, towers, and windows.

4

The entrance door is fashioned from massive stone, designed to resemble a portal rather than a domestic entryway.

5

Hasdeu dedicated the rest of his life to communicating with his daughter through spiritism, keeping detailed records of these sessions in the house.

6

The castle was damaged during World War I and II, requiring extensive restoration in the late 20th century to recover its original appearance.

Overview

The Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum is a unique 19th-century castle in Câmpina, commissioned by philologist Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu to honor his daughter, Iulia, who died at age 19. Designed by Hasdeu himself, the structure follows a cruciform ground plan and incorporates occult, esoteric, and masonic symbolism. The architecture features three towers and was built using stone, brick, and iron to reflect the spiritualist beliefs of its creator. Inside, the museum houses original furniture, personal belongings, and manuscripts belonging to the Hasdeu family. The building is renowned for its specific orientation and layout, which the author believed facilitated communication with the spirit world. It served as a spiritual sanctuary for the bereaved father, who held séances within its walls. The museum is currently preserved as a historical monument, showcasing a blend of architectural eccentricity and profound personal grief. It remains one of the few examples of a home built specifically to serve as a bridge between the living and the dead.

Photo spot

The front facade, which highlights the distinct cruciform architectural layout and the stone entrance.

Insider tips

Focus on the architectural details of the towers and stone masonry as they reflect the esoteric theories of the creator.

Read a brief biography of Iulia Hasdeu before visiting to better understand the artifacts displayed in her memorial room.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to touch the original manuscripts or furniture, as preservation protocols are strictly enforced.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet, respectful tone as the building serves as a memorial dedicated to a deceased individual.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1 hour
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn, as the garden surrounding the castle provides a clearer view of the exterior architecture.
Address
Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum, Bulevardul Carol I 199, Câmpina 105600, Romania
45.136, 25.727
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsIulia Hasdeu's personal journals, the 'Blue Room' memorial, and spiritualist séance records.
Architectural styleSymbolic, esoteric, and cruciform design.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1 hour to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn, as the garden surrounding the castle provides a clearer view of the exterior architecture..

The front facade, which highlights the distinct cruciform architectural layout and the stone entrance.

Close by you'll find Lacul Bisericii, Biserica Adormirea Maicii Domnului, Cherry Fountain Park.