Curtea de Argeș City (Arges County): Discover Romania's First Capital & Royal Heritage +video and views
Posted: Sun Jan 25, 2026 2:44 pm
Stepping into Curtea de Argeș is like walking through the pages of a medieval chronicle. Known as the first capital of Wallachia (Țara Românească), this quiet, elegant town at the foot of the Făgăraș Mountains - "The Transylvanian Alps" (Click here to see) holds the secrets of Romania’s founding princes and the eternal rest of its Kings.
Where Royalty Meets Divinity
The town’s crown jewel is, without a doubt, The Curtea de Argeș Monastery and her Royal History (Click here to discover). But the city’s heritage goes much deeper. For a true journey back in time, you must visit the Royal Court (Curtea Domnească) and the Princely Church of Saint Nicholas (Click here to see). Built in the 14th century, it is one of the oldest and most important examples of Byzantine architecture in Romania, featuring stunning original frescoes that have survived for over 600 years.
A Walk Through History
Curtea de Argeș has a unique, aristocratic atmosphere. As you stroll down its main boulevard, you’ll notice:
-The Old Railway Station: A stunning architectural monument built in the late 19th century, designed by the famous Italian architect Giulio Magni.
-Traditional Architecture: Many houses still preserve the "Argeșean" style, with beautifully carved wooden balconies and stone foundations.
Why Every Traveler Should Stay a While
Most tourists rush through on their way to the Transfagarasan : (Click HERE ) to discover the best road in the world, but Curtea de Argeș rewards those who slow down. It’s the perfect place to try authentic southern Romanian cuisine in a traditional "pensiune" or to explore the local artisan shops where you can still find hand-woven textiles and pottery.
An amazing video presenting Curtea de Argeș City:
Beyond the City: The Wild Argeș Gorges
Just a short drive north from Curtea de Argeș, the landscape shifts from historical elegance to raw, mountain drama. The Argeș Gorges (Cheile Argeșului) serve as the spectacular gateway to the Transfagarasan.
Here, the road is carved directly into towering limestone walls, creating a narrow canyon where the sky almost disappears. As you wind through dark tunnels and under jagged rock overhangs, you'll feel the true power of the Southern Carpathians. It’s the perfect transition from the "City of Kings" to the untamed wilderness of the peaks.
Quick Tip: Stop for a moment in one of the roadside laybys to hear the roar of the Argeș River below—it’s the same river that once powered the medieval capital!
Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Curtea de Argeș
1. Is Curtea de Argeș worth visiting? Absolutely. As the first capital of Wallachia, it is one of the most historically significant cities in Romania. It’s the perfect blend of royal history, legendary architecture, and the natural beauty of the Argeș Gorges.
2. What is the most famous landmark in the city? The Curtea de Argeș Monastery is the city's icon. It is famous for its unique twisted towers and the heartbreaking legend of Master Manole. It also serves as the Necropolis for the Romanian Royal Family.
3. Can I visit the Royal Railway Station?
You can admire its stunning exterior architecture. However, please note that the station is often undergoing restoration projects to preserve its heritage, so interior access may be limited. It is located near the city center and is a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
4. How far is Curtea de Argeș from Bucharest?
It is approximately 150 km (93 miles) away. The drive takes about 2 hours via the A1 highway and DN7, making it an ideal day trip or the starting point for a Transfăgărășan adventure.
5. What is the "Princely Church" (Biserica Domnească)?
Located at the Royal Court (Curtea Domnească), it is one of the oldest and most important Byzantine monuments in Romania. Inside, you can find original 14th-century frescoes that are remarkably well-preserved.
6. Are there good places to eat?
Yes, the city is known for its traditional Romanian hospitality. There are several restaurants along the main boulevard (Bulevardul Basarabilor) where you can try local Argeșean specialties like pastramă or traditional soups.
View of Old Town center of Curtea de Argeș
The town’s crown jewel is, without a doubt, The Curtea de Argeș Monastery and her Royal History (Click here to discover). But the city’s heritage goes much deeper. For a true journey back in time, you must visit the Royal Court (Curtea Domnească) and the Princely Church of Saint Nicholas (Click here to see). Built in the 14th century, it is one of the oldest and most important examples of Byzantine architecture in Romania, featuring stunning original frescoes that have survived for over 600 years.
A Walk Through History
Curtea de Argeș has a unique, aristocratic atmosphere. As you stroll down its main boulevard, you’ll notice:
-The Old Railway Station: A stunning architectural monument built in the late 19th century, designed by the famous Italian architect Giulio Magni.
-Traditional Architecture: Many houses still preserve the "Argeșean" style, with beautifully carved wooden balconies and stone foundations.
View of The Royal Railway Station of Curtea de Argeș
Most tourists rush through on their way to the Transfagarasan : (Click HERE ) to discover the best road in the world, but Curtea de Argeș rewards those who slow down. It’s the perfect place to try authentic southern Romanian cuisine in a traditional "pensiune" or to explore the local artisan shops where you can still find hand-woven textiles and pottery.
An amazing video presenting Curtea de Argeș City:
Beyond the City: The Wild Argeș Gorges
Just a short drive north from Curtea de Argeș, the landscape shifts from historical elegance to raw, mountain drama. The Argeș Gorges (Cheile Argeșului) serve as the spectacular gateway to the Transfagarasan.
Here, the road is carved directly into towering limestone walls, creating a narrow canyon where the sky almost disappears. As you wind through dark tunnels and under jagged rock overhangs, you'll feel the true power of the Southern Carpathians. It’s the perfect transition from the "City of Kings" to the untamed wilderness of the peaks.
Quick Tip: Stop for a moment in one of the roadside laybys to hear the roar of the Argeș River below—it’s the same river that once powered the medieval capital!
Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Curtea de Argeș1. Is Curtea de Argeș worth visiting? Absolutely. As the first capital of Wallachia, it is one of the most historically significant cities in Romania. It’s the perfect blend of royal history, legendary architecture, and the natural beauty of the Argeș Gorges.
2. What is the most famous landmark in the city? The Curtea de Argeș Monastery is the city's icon. It is famous for its unique twisted towers and the heartbreaking legend of Master Manole. It also serves as the Necropolis for the Romanian Royal Family.
3. Can I visit the Royal Railway Station?
You can admire its stunning exterior architecture. However, please note that the station is often undergoing restoration projects to preserve its heritage, so interior access may be limited. It is located near the city center and is a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
4. How far is Curtea de Argeș from Bucharest?
It is approximately 150 km (93 miles) away. The drive takes about 2 hours via the A1 highway and DN7, making it an ideal day trip or the starting point for a Transfăgărășan adventure.
5. What is the "Princely Church" (Biserica Domnească)?
Located at the Royal Court (Curtea Domnească), it is one of the oldest and most important Byzantine monuments in Romania. Inside, you can find original 14th-century frescoes that are remarkably well-preserved.
6. Are there good places to eat?
Yes, the city is known for its traditional Romanian hospitality. There are several restaurants along the main boulevard (Bulevardul Basarabilor) where you can try local Argeșean specialties like pastramă or traditional soups.