The trip to Brebu during the European Week was a real success, because we got to know each other much better and we had the chance to find out many interesting things about our countries. Here we had the chance to admire the historical values of Romania, because we visited the Architectural Complex from Brebu. But first, there are a few things that must be said about this small place, which often seems insignificant for all of us, because of its size.

Brebu is situated near Campina and Ploiesti, important towns, but it has the advantage of a non-polluted area with a temperate climate. Here, Matei Basarab (16th century), a very important ruler in our history, found a place to rest and to think. So he built the Complex, which was also a fortification, because Basarab needed safety.

The construction is made of the houses of the ruler, the fortification wall, the church and the bell tower. First, they built the houses and the walls, and in the spring of 1641 the construction of the church started and it was finished in 1650.The complex was finished in 1690,during the rule of Constantin Brancoveanu.

The Complex used to be the summer residence of Matei Basarab, but he died before he could finish the construction, which was completed by Brancoveanu. The architecture is specific for that time and the Complex is unique in the world, because of its originality and beauty.

Now, it serves as a History Museum and it shelters one of the most important vestiges in our history. Here, there are the first printed documents and books from our country. Of course, you can also admire old jewellery and coins.

The entry in the Architectural Complex is made under the bell-tower, which was also used as an observation post. The bell-tower is 27 metres high and the entry in the tower is by an exterior ladder.

The fortification walls had a military purpose and were very large. During many battles, they had a very important role in the protection of the fortress. Now, this walls are only a memory of the past and a very important cultural monument.

Because of political circumstances and because Matei Basarab was very old, he couldn't finish the construction of the church, which was continued by Constantin Brancoveanu in 1689.The church was finished in 1690,but because of the earthquakes,it needed restauration and it lost its initial aspect.

The paintings inside the church are very interesting and beautiful and some of them are the work of the painter Sava Hentia. They represent scenes from the Bible, like the Death and Resurrection of Christ.

Brebu represents one of the most important historical places in Romania and it is a sight worth visiting, not only for its monuments, but for the beauty of the nature surrounding it and because of the Romanian traditions that are so well preserved here.

Straja Andra, IX F1

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