Izvorul Eminescu din Parcul Cismigiu

## Overview Izvorul Eminescu is a beloved public drinking spring nestled within Cișmigiu Gardens, one of Bucharest's oldest and most cherished public parks. Named after Mihai Eminescu — Romania's national poet and a towering figure of Romanian literature — the spring pays tribute to the writer who is said to have frequented these very gardens during his years in Bucharest in the late 19th century. Cișmigiu Gardens itself dates back to 1847, making it the oldest public garden in the Romanian capital, and the spring has long been a gathering point for locals seeking fresh water in the heart of the city. The spring features a piped output set within an attractive construction of naturally shaped rocks, giving it a rustic charm despite its urban setting. Water flows year-round at a fairly steady rate, and the spring draws a constant stream of visitors — from elderly residents filling bottles to curious tourists exploring the park. While the water has not been lab tested, it has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals, and many visitors report that it tastes clean and refreshing. As with any untested natural water source, visitors should use their own discretion. ## Directions 1. Head to the center of Bucharest. Cișmigiu Gardens is located between Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta and Strada Știrbei Vodă, just west of the University of Bucharest. 2. Enter the park from the **Strada Știrbei Vodă** entrance (on the northern side of the gardens). 3. Follow the paths into the park — the spring is not far from this entrance and is easy to spot thanks to its distinctive rock construction and the visitors who regularly gather around it. 4. **GPS coordinates:** 44°26'21.9"N, 26°05'21.5"E (44.439313, 26.088967). The park is well-served by public transport. The nearest metro station is **Izvor** (M5 line), and several bus and tram lines stop along Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta and Calea Victoriei. ## What to Expect Izvorul Eminescu sits within the lush, landscaped grounds of Cișmigiu Gardens — a park filled with winding paths, ornamental lakes, statues, and mature trees. Being in the heart of Bucharest, don't expect the tranquility of a remote forest spring; instead, you'll enjoy the lively atmosphere of a well-loved urban park, complete with strolling couples, chess players, and families. The spring itself flows from a pipe set into a small rock formation. The surrounding rocks can develop algae and become slippery, so take care when approaching — it's best to fill water containers directly from the pipe rather than collecting water from the rocks below. Several cafés and small eateries operate within or near the gardens, making it easy to combine a visit to the spring with a leisurely meal or coffee. The park is open year-round and free to enter, and the spring flows consistently through all seasons. Cișmigiu Gardens also offers plenty to see beyond the spring: the Rondul Român (a circular garden featuring busts of famous Romanian writers), a boating lake, and beautifully maintained flower beds make it a worthwhile destination in its own right.