The Kula Saint Mina – Orchidan ensemble from Ștefăneşti, Argeş County, is a historical treasure hidden in the heart of the old settlement of the Brătianu family. Built at the end of the 19th century, the complex impresses with its architectural elegance.
The two monumental buildings, built of stone and brick, fascinate with their details: the first of them, with a basement and a ground floor, houses spacious rooms and a bay window, reflecting the charm of bygone times. The second building, a former wine cellar, preserves the authenticity of the architecture of the Olten buildings, with two basements and a generous ground floor.
In addition to these, the complex also houses other heritage treasures, such as the Church of "St. Ioan Bogoslovul" and the Former Hermitage Valea Mare - Podgoria, each with a story waiting to be discovered.
Time has left its mark on the place, but even so we can still glimpse its former glory.
Outstanding personalities
Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu himself used to stop here, in the area, to pick the vineyards of Valea Mare, on his way from the royal court in Târgoviște to the one in Bucharest.
The manor was owned by the Brâncoveanu family for a while and administered by the Brâncovenești Estates starting from the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, monks lived in the manor. Later, it was taken over by Constantin Orghidan and his successors until 1952, when it was nationalized.
Brief historical foray
The ensemble of buildings in the Orchidan Kula area were established in the area of the former Brancoveanu manor in Valea Mare - Podgoria and includes several heritage objectives, apart from the main buildings.
The "Kula St. Mina - Orchidan" ensemble, built at the end of the 19th century, was completed in 1896, which can be found on the frontispiece of the building.
Unique experiences
If you arrive in this area full of history, you cannot leave before crossing the threshold of the nearby boyar courts:
The ensemble of the boyar courts of the sluger (intendant) Mușat (1601-1700), classified as an archaeological site, which you can find in Ștefănești, Argeș County.
The Court of Golești (17th-19th centuries) is a set of historical monuments located on the territory of the village of Golești in the town of Ștefănești.
"Florica" manor complexof theBrătianu family located in the town of Ștefăneşti (beginning of the 20th century).
At the exit from the A1 Bucharest – Pitești, at Pitești Est follow DN 7, then turn left onto DJ 741. After 2.5 km turn right onto Valea Popii Deal street, then onto Valea Popii Vale street and continue for 1.5 km on the unpaved road to the cula.
Facilities
Sanitary group in the location or proximity
No
Access facilities for disabled people
No
Wi-Fi
No
Status
Temporarily closed
Parking
In proximity
Landmark access
Bicycle, Walking, By car
The custodians reserve the right to modify the visiting conditions of the attractions.