The Muzeul Municipiului București will host the thematic exhibition “Iarmaroc și negoț din Bucureștii de odinioară” on Friday, April 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM, at the Palatul Suțu, located at Bd. I.C. Brătianu, no. 2. The exhibition will be open for public viewing until October 26, 2025, and entry to the opening is free.
Visitors can explore the exhibition from Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the ticket office closing at 5:30 PM.
“Iarmaroc și negoț din Bucureștii de odinioară” focuses on the traditional markets that took place in Bucharest, which served as vital points for social interaction and commerce. These markets allowed people from diverse regions to come together, fostering both economic exchanges and the transfer of craft-related information directly.
One of the significant markets discussed is the “Târgul Moșilor,” which originated from the “Târgul de Afară” documented in the 17th century on the eastern outskirts of the city, distinguishing it from the older “Târg Dinlăuntru” near the Domnitor’s Court. Over time, the market became an important commercial center, offering a wide range of goods, from luxurious silks and embroidery to spices and perfumes. A commemorative aspect of the market is also highlighted, as it served as a site of remembrance for soldiers who died in battle, associated with religious services led by Matei Basarab between 1632 and 1654. Due to various plagues and historical events, the market operated intermittently until the 19th century, while its location gradually shifted northeast as the city expanded.
By the end of the 19th century, the market was held at the Moșilor barrier. Initially rudimentary in organization, it transformed in the early 20th century into a more structured layout, culminating in visits from the Royal Family during the Moșilor Thursday festivities. Surrounding this central royal area, numerous craftsmen from various ethnographic zones displayed their products, including woodworkers, potters, and blacksmiths. The interwar period marked a shift of the market into an annual exhibition for artisans and small industrialists.
Bucharest also hosted several markets initially known as “târguri,” such as “Târgul de Sus,” “Târgul de Jos,” and “Târgul Cucului.” The space designated for livestock trading was referred to as “obor.” The term “piață,” derived from Italian, began to appear in the early 19th century, driven by regulatory efforts to establish marketplaces on the outskirts for trade in firewood, hay, or coal, as well as various locations within the city for selling meat, fruits, vegetables, and fish. This innovative approach aimed to reduce street congestion and maintain cleanliness in Bucharest, marking a progressive vision for urban development.
The evolution of Bucharest’s markets throughout history reflects significant cultural, social, and economic transformations, shedding light on how local authorities conceived and implemented urban policies. The experience of food shortages during the communist era turned “going to the market” into a profound necessity for the community.
Markets and fairs in Bucharest have evolved into key cultural and economic hubs where people congregate to buy, sell, and socialize, preserving local traditions. Although some markets have faded over time, today’s Piața Obor and the area formerly hosting the “Târgul Moșilor” maintain their historical and memorial significance. Despite numerous changes, the commercial role of these spaces as free markets for agricultural products and manufactured goods has persisted, connecting urban and rural production activities while serving as a cherished reminder of the “Târgul Moșilor” and its associated customs.
This exhibition aims to showcase the vibrant atmosphere of these historical markets and their importance through various displayed items, including documents, photographs, lithographs, and artifacts that illustrate the cultural activities of bygone eras. Attendees can expect to uncover historical milestones related to Bucharest’s markets and fairs, curated by Dr. Silvia Iordache and Drd. Gabriel Constantin.
In conclusion, “Iarmaroc și negoț din Bucureștii de odinioară” will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the rich commercial and social fabric of Bucharest’s historical markets, deepening their understanding of the city’s past and its evolution into the present day.
