The Casino of Constanța — Attraction in Constanta Metropolitan Area

The Casino of Constanța, perched on the edge of the Black Sea, stands as one of Romania’s most iconic and captivating landmarks. Completed in 1910 in the Art Nouveau style, this architectural masterpiece reflects the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era. Designed by the renowned architect Daniel Renard, the building quickly became a symbol of sophistication, attracting Romania’s aristocracy and elite tourists from across Europe.

For decades, the casino functioned as both a social and cultural hub. It hosted glamorous balls, theater performances, and gambling events that defined Constanța's vibrant high society. Its location on the seafront promenade provided breathtaking views of the sea, making it a favorite spot for visitors and locals alike.

However, the casino’s glory days were interrupted by the devastation of World Wars and the shifting political landscape of the 20th century. Following years of neglect, the building fell into disrepair, its majestic halls echoing with silence instead of music and laughter. Despite its state of decay, the casino remained a beloved monument, admired for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

In recent years, restoration efforts have finally begun to breathe new life into the structure, aiming to preserve its unique charm while restoring its original splendor. Once completed, the Casino of Constanța is expected to regain its status as a cultural and architectural jewel on the Black Sea coast.

More than just a building, the casino is a powerful reminder of Romania’s rich cultural heritage and its enduring connection to Europe’s artistic and historical currents. It continues to inspire both nostalgia and hope for future...

It saddens me to give a one star to a historical monument from my hometown, but the local authorities and the indifference of the general public have left a really impressive, (more than) one hundred year old building to just fall to crumbles, year after year. This building used to be a casino back in the day (it was built between 1880-1910), and even in its current state you can see why it was wonderful. The architecture is exquisite (Art Nouveau style), the location is superbe, just on the tip of the seafront, on the city boardwalk that ends in the touristic harbour, gently washed by the waves and sun; the casino has a small beach strip at its feet where you can enjoy the sand, the waves and the view of the city industrial harbour. The casino was in use for almost 40 years, standing still against attacks and bombings in both World Wars, giving the nickname of Monte Carlo to the city of Constanța. After the communists took over Romania, the casino served as a Palace of Culture for about twenty years after finally being given to the National Tourism Office. The last renovations took place in the late '80s and it shows. The building is closed for visiting because the whole area is insecure. It now serves as a cat "sanctuary" for stray cats. It was supposed to be renovated, but shady politicians (like the former convicted mayor of Constanța), general lack of interest and apathy, all led to the building's current poor state. Maybe there's hope for this great reminder of Constanța's historic, bright past in the morning future, but until then, all you can do is take a picture from...

The Constanta Casino was first built in 1880, and the current structure built in 1910. Over the years it served as a hangout for European jet setters and royals, gambling casino, World War II hospital, Communist Party cultural center, and briefly a restaurant. It was closed in 1990 and has been abandoned since because of litigation and bureaucratic delays. (Wikipedia entry summary)

“Work on the Casino continues according to schedule and takes place both indoors and outdoors, around the symbolic edifice of the city. Thus, these days, the municipal teams are working to connect the Casino to a stronger electrical network, which must cope with the growing demand. In parallel, inside, the workers carry out the consolidation and restoration works according to the building permit issued by the City of Constanta respecting the original project, with the architectural details of 1910. The restoration of the Casino is carried out by experts specializing in Class A historic buildings. With the progress of the works, it is possible to see other work built between the walls of the building by those who worked on the rehabilitation of the Casino in the 1950s. Upon completion of the works, the Casino will become a veritable cultural centre and will regain its original brightness. A heritage object is restored and strengthened, thus managing to preserve our cultural identity and, at the same time, to promote it at the national and international level.” (Constanta Casino...