A complex and cultivated figure—art historian, ethnographer, museologist, and cultural journalist—Tzigara-Samurcaș was a member of the literary society Junimea and taught at the National School of Fine Arts, the University of Bucharest, and later at the University of Cernăuți. His grandson, Tudor Berza, once wrote with admiration:
"As an adult, I came to know and appreciate him, adding to the idyllic image of a white-bearded grandfather the presence of an intelligent, active, courageous, and kind man—someone who, though never fully recognized as a leading scholar in his lifetime, gave enormously to Romanian culture over half a century—as a director, professor, tireless lecturer, and author of consistently valuable and often provocative or even revolutionary texts, such as those exploring the continuity of decorative motifs from ancient times in Romanian lands."
this three-story residence holds a remarkable history, having been the final home of esteemed art historian, ethnographer, and museologist alexandru tzigara-samurcaș, who lived here with his family during the last years of his life.
the house was originally built by tzigara-samurcaș as a dowry for his daughter, ancufa tzigara-samurcaș, who later became mrs. berza after her marriage. the architectural project bears the signature of richard bordenache (1905–1982), one of the notable names in 20th-century romanian architecture. his academic training in both bucharest and rome, along with his extensive experience in restoration and modern construction, grant s this building both architectural distinction and historical prestige.
prior to moving into this home, tzigara-samurcaș resided next to what bucharest locals once referred to as the "muzeul de la șosea"—today known as the national museum of the romanian peasant, located on kiseleff road. notably, this is the museum he founded in 1906 and directed for forty years.
alexandru tzigara-samurcaș descended from an old boyar family with strong ties to the moldavian throne. throughout his life, he held numerous influential positions and played a vital role in shaping modern romanian culture. among his many contributions, he served as the director of the carol i university foundation and maintained close connections to the royal family. he also played an active role in the organization and preservation of the theodor aman art collection, driven by a deep commitment to safeguarding romania’s artistic heritage.
today, the house retains the charm of its era but has been fully renovated and modernized inside, offering all the comforts of contemporary living. the spaces are bright and finished with wooden flooring, while the residence is equipped with all necessary utilities. thanks to its smart layout and generous three-level structure, the property is ideal as a family home, office headquarters, or cultural venue, enjoying a prime location in aviatorilor—a district steeped in history and prestige.
the main living area impresses with a rare architectural feature: a glazed ceiling reminiscent of an artist’s atelier. this skylight bathes the space in soft natural light throughout the day and evokes the bohemian elegance of parisian art studios. the living room flows seamlessly through wide sliding doors into an open-plan office area, which can serve as a home office, reading room, or space for relaxation. this room offers direct access to a balcony, creating a discreet connection to the outdoors and allowing for a continuous play of natural light.
the other two floors, the ground floor and the first floor, are arranged as living spaces for a family, each featuring a kitchen, two bathrooms (one with a bathtub and one with a shower), a bedroom, and three en-suite rooms. the rooms are connected by sliding or swing doors, elegantly decorated with modern artistic wallpaper, and can be opened up to create an exceptionally spacious reception area.
also, the basement offers ample storage spaces, the former laundry and drying rooms of the manor house, as well as a small service apartment consisting of three rooms, and two access staircases.
the yard features a pergola with grapevines, a fir tree, and a linden in front of the house, which filter the light, creating a pleasant and shaded ambiance, while flowers are planted along the sides to complement the landscape.
