Crucea de la Biserica Coltei

Colțea Church in Bucharest is an important Romanian Orthodox site on I. C. Brătianu Boulevard, near University Square. Dedicated to the Holy Trinity, it was once the center of the monastery of the same name, which also included a hospital and several chapels. The present stone church was built between 1695 and 1698 by Spătar Mihai Cantacuzino after he acquired the site. A statue of the founder stands in front of the building, commemorating his historic role. Over the centuries the complex went through various alterations and repairs, including after earthquakes and fires. Two notable chapters in its history are the former bell tower, which was torn down in the 19th century, and the fact that the church served as a refuge during the Romanian Revolution of 1989, an event honored by a memorial cross nearby.

Architecturally, the building represents the typical Brâncovenesc style and has a cross-shaped floor plan with a slightly enlarged narthex. The exterior is striking for its large, open portico with five front arches and two side arches resting on cylindrical stone pillars. These pillars are decorated with floral and animal motifs. The portal combines Italian Baroque elements with Ottoman and local stylistic touches, including a double-headed eagle, the Cantacuzino family coat of arms. Inside, the richly ornamented iconostasis with plant and geometric patterns stands out. The walls are adorned with frescoes, including works by the painter Pârvu Mutu that were uncovered during restoration. The interior paintings by Gheorghe Tattarescu from 1871 also shape the church's appearance.

Inside the church, you can admire four historic icons, including a depiction of the Virgin and Child from 1786 as well as icons of Saints Cosmas and Damian. Today the church is a protected historic monument and offers insight into the religious and cultural history of Bucharest. Careful restoration in the early 2000s preserved both the structure and the artistic details, so the church can now be experienced as a living place of faith and history.