Plizio Visual Lab

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

monument

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova (Romania)

Weather…

The statue of Michael the Brave in Craiova is a central landmark in the capital of Oltenia, honoring the prince who first unified the Romanian principalities in 1600. Before ascending to the throne of Wallachia, Michael held the title of Ban of Craiova, a position that solidified his influence in the region. The current bronze monument, located in the square bearing his name, was created by the sculptor Marius Butunoiu and unveiled in 1970 to mark the 370th anniversary of the Union. It depicts the voivode on horseback, holding a mace, symbolizing his military prowess and political vision. The statue stands on a high pedestal decorated with bronze reliefs depicting scenes from Michael's battles and his entrance into Alba Iulia. It remains a gathering point for local celebrations and a symbol of regional pride and national unity, dominating the architectural ensemble of the city center.

Location: Dolj, Romania
Top sights: Carol I · Barbu Știrbei · Opera Română Craiova
Nearby: Balș (25 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-2	1	6	12	17	22	24	24	19	12	6	0
Rain mm	44	40	47	49	75	84	71	50	54	59	50	52

📋 Practical info

🚪

Visiting

The statue of Mihai Viteazul stands on a public square in Craiova, freely accessible at any time. There is no entrance fee or time restriction for viewing.

🕒

Typical hours

As an outdoor monument, there are no opening hours; it is visible around the clock. For best lighting conditions, a late afternoon visit is recommended.

📷

Photography

Photography of the statue is unrestricted as it is in the public domain. Shots that capture the horseman against a historical backdrop are particularly impressive.

⏱️

Time needed

Viewing the statue itself takes only a few minutes, but the surrounding square invites lingering. Allow a total of 10-15 minutes for the visit.

➕

Combine with

Nearby attractions include the Craiova Art Museum and Borșa Park. A walk through the city center connects several cultural highlights.

🧭

Getting there

The statue is located in central Craiova, easily reachable on foot or by public transport. There are parking lots and bus/tram stops nearby.

💡

Insider tip

Take the opportunity to photograph the surrounding neoclassical buildings. A morning visit avoids crowds and provides a more peaceful experience.

Geography

Coordinates

44.31860, 23.79250

Facts

Michael the Brave ruled Wallachia between 1593 and 1601
He served as the Ban of Craiova before his rise to the throne
The current bronze statue was officially unveiled in 1970
The monument is the work of the sculptor Marius Butunoiu
The pedestal features reliefs depicting the entrance into Alba Iulia
The statue marks the 370th anniversary of the first Union of 1600

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marin Sorescu National Theatre Craiova<1 km · NEExplore →

Craiova Zoo2 km · SExplore →

Ford Otosan Craiova5 km · SEExplore →

📍Balș25 km · EExplore →

📍Segarcea26 km · SExplore →

Filiași34 km · NWExplore →

📍Piatra-Olt40 km · EExplore →

Brâncoveni Monastery42 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova (10)

Carol I

Monument to King Carol I of Romania, located in central Craiova.

Barbu Știrbei

Monument honoring Prince Barbu Știrbei, in Craiova.

Opera Română Craiova

Opera house in Craiova, hosting opera and ballet performances.

Museum of Oltenia. Natural Sciences Department🏛 museum

Natural sciences section of the Museum of Oltenia in Craiova.

🌐 muzeulolteniei.ro🕒 Tu-Su 09:00-17:00💶

Ioan Maiorescu

Monument to Ioan Maiorescu, educator and politician, in Craiova.

Art Museum🏛 museum

Art museum in Craiova, displaying Romanian and European works.

Museum of Oltenia. History and Archaeology Department🏛 museum

History and archaeology section of the Museum of Oltenia in Craiova.

Administrative Palace

Administrative palace in Craiova, housing local government offices.

Incubator 107

Cultural center in Craiova, venue for contemporary art and events.

Teatrul Național Marin Sorescu

National theatre in Craiova, named after playwright Marin Sorescu.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Independence Monument in Craiova represent?

It commemorates the Independence War of 1877-1878 and the courage of Romanian soldiers.

Where exactly in Craiova is the monument located?

It is located in Independence Square (Piața Independenței), in the central part of the city.

Can the monument be visited at night?

Yes, the square is public, and the monument is often atmosphericly illuminated at night.

Are there other attractions in the immediate vicinity?

Yes, the Craiova Art Museum and Nicolae Romanescu Park are located nearby.

Is the area accessible for wheelchair users?

Yes, the square is level and accessible for wheelchair users or strollers.

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova: where is it located?

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova is located in Dolj, Romania.

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova: what is there to see?

Highlights include Carol I, Barbu Știrbei, Opera Română Craiova.

Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova: when is the best time to visit?