Bănești: Archaeological Traces, Churches and Parks

A fragmentary krater was discovered on the Neajlov near Bănești. Another area of finds lies between Bănești and Chirculești in the Valea Ilfovățului valley. Numerous archaeological traces were uncovered there during surface surveys with students from Iepurești School. The individual krater find on the river and the more extensive traces from the valley belong to different archaeological contexts. There are therefore two distinct archaeological contexts on the Neajlov and in the Valea Ilfovățului valley. For historical sites, current information on route conditions can be checked in advance.

The architectural history includes three buildings with different dates of construction and functions. The manor house in Chirculești dates from 1864. It is classified as a monument of local interest and as an architectural monument. In Gorneni stands the church “Sfinții Arhangheli Mihail și Gavril,” which dates from 1825 and is likewise classified as a monument of local interest and as an architectural monument.

The church “Sfântul Nicolae” near Iepurești Town Hall dates back to 1790 and was rebuilt in 1827. Its history therefore includes both the original construction date and a later reconstruction. The years 1790, 1825 and 1864 mark a chronological sequence among the three buildings, while the manor house and churches also represent civil and religious architecture. For historic churches, it is advisable to check current opening hours in advance before including a visit in the day’s itinerary.

The Iepurești museum collection offers a distinct historical perspective. One of its notable exhibits is a fragment of an American B24 bomber. The aircraft was shot down near Iepurești on 28 June 1944. The fragment connects the collection with a specifically dated event in contemporary history and complements the older archaeological and architectural evidence with an object from the 20th century. When visiting the museum, current opening hours should be checked in advance, as they may be relevant to planning the day.

The commune of Iepurești is characterized by relatively flat relief; the Neajlov River runs through it. Flat relief and a river course describe different geographical features.

The wider surrounding region of Bănești contains several buildings with different classifications. Cotroceni Palace is a palace. Văcărești Monastery is a ruin. Palace of the Parliament is also a palace, while Palatul de Justiție is considered a monument. Thus, two palaces stand alongside a ruin and a monument; the four buildings mentioned expand the range of historical and architectural destinations beyond the immediate archaeological and church sites.

Several parks are also located in the wider surrounding region of Bănești. Drumul Taberei Park, Carol Park, Cișmigiu Park and Cold Spring Park are each designated as a park. Current opening hours for parks can be checked before visiting.

Other places: Călugăreni, Greaca, Izvoarele, Varlaam, Comana, Malu, Potlogi, Daia

For the higher-level travel overview: Giurgiu.