The Small Trianon Palace, part of the Cantacuzino Domain Florești, Prahova, enters a restoration process by starting the project of consolidation of the structure, restoration of facades and refunctionalization of the spaces. The project is financed by the National Heritage Institute through the Historic Monuments Stamp, session V/2024, Subprogram: Restoration, according to the grant contract no. 153/19.12.2024. The general objective consists in the restoration and consolidation of the “Little Trianon” Palace, historical monument class A, by carrying out structural consolidation works, restoration of the white limestone facades and refunctionalization of the interior spaces. The project also emphasizes the cultural and touristic valorization of the monument, as well as the promotion of sustainability through green technologies. The amount of grant awarded is RON 9,991,599, and the beneficiary’s own contribution is RON 1,002,364. The implementation period is between the date of signing of the grant contract, 19.12.2024, and 31.12.2027. It was built in the early 20th century by Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino – “Nababul”, the “Little Trianon” Palace is a unique example of architecture inspired by the Louis XIV style and the academic eclecticism of the École des Beaux-Arts. Its architecture reflects a refined combination of the grandeur of French classicism and modern adaptations of the Belle Époque period. Decorative elements such as Ionic columns with elaborate capitals and symmetrical arches are complemented by details specific to the Cantacuzino family, such as the heraldic coat of arms carved in bas-relief. The facades are decorated with sculptural details in white limestone, highlighted by floral and geometric motifs, which add an extra layer of architectural refinement. Large, well-proportioned windows facilitate optimal natural lighting, emphasizing the harmony between the interior architecture and the exterior landscape. In addition, the gardens surrounding the palace have been designed in harmony with the building’s design, drawing inspiration from French formal landscaping. The materials used, especially white limestone, contribute to the authenticity and durability of this imposing architecture. The architect of the “Little Trianon” Palace is Ion D. Berindei, one of the most important figures of Romanian architecture at the beginning of the 20th century. Trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, Berindei combined French academic influences with local traditions, leaving an impressive architectural legacy. His achievements include the Cantacuzino Palace in Bucharest (Enescu Museum) and the Palace of Culture in Iasi. The palace is an important symbol of national cultural heritage. Due to the lack of maintenance work over the decades and the effects of climatic conditions, the building has reached an advanced state of deterioration, requiring urgent conservation and restoration interventions. Once the restoration work is completed, the Little Trianon Palace will become a multifunctional cultural space, integrated into the national and international tourist circuit. The project will contribute to the revitalization of the local cultural identity and will open the doors to a promising future, offering multiple benefits: cultural, social, educational and economic.
The Little Trianon Palace of the Cantacuzino Estate in Floresști under restoration
