Targu Jiu
& Heroes Path
Monumental Complex
Discover the lasting legacy of master Constantin Brâncuși!
We can find the only place where the sky has been eternally stitched to the earth in the “City of Brâncuși’, a small Romanian town that has become a unique cultural destination. Considered the “father of modern sculpture”, Constantin Brâncuși left the world a priceless artistic heritage, but nothing compares to the treasures he created for its birthplace, where we have a unique chance to see his greatest masterpieces, united in the Heroes Path Monumental Complex!
The monumental complex known as the Heroes Path is located in the city of Târgu Jiu, in the southwest of Romania, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Carpathians and touched by the Jiu River. The city is located about 300 km west of Bucharest and can be reached along the DN67 and E79 (DN66) roads.
The roots of modern art can be found in this small provincial town, where world renowned sculptor Constantin Brâncuși has created its greatest masterpiece, carving his unique artistic vision in stone.
Created in the years between the two wars as a homage to the heroes of the First World War, the Heroes Path complex includes several exceptional monuments, the Table of Silence, the Chairs Alley, the Gate of the Kiss and the Endless Column.
With its quiet atmosphere and charm, this town might not be among the most famous places in Romania… But little known by many travelers, it protects a treasure of world heritage. Created in the years before the Second World War as homage to the heroes of the First War.
Sights of Targu Jiu
What to See in Targu Jiu
The Table of Silence
The minimalist style of the Table of Silence has been praised for decades. The perfect symmetry and circularity of the table and the surrounding twelve chairs creates a space of deep contemplation. Symbolizing the silence of deep thought and meditation, the table is created by two perfect stone cylinders. Around the table, at equal distance from it and from one another, there are twelve clepsydrae chairs. For some, the monument also symbolizes the Last Supper with Jesus at the center surrounded by the twelve apostles. Between the Table of Silence and the next monument of the axis, there is an alley flanked by a series of stone chairs, five groups of three chairs on each side.
The Gate of the Kiss
Following a charming alley through the park, flanked by two rows of square clepsydrae chairs, the second monument is visible at a short walk away. The monumental Gate of the Kiss at the entrance of the city is a symbol of love. The stylization of the kiss symbol has been a lifelong purpose for Brâncuși. The stone Gate of the Kiss is a sort of triumphal arch like many others around the world, but unlike any, it takes a humane scale. Brâncuși has managed to create an everlasting testament of love in stone. Some critics have declared that the main element of the gate is the empty space within, the stone embracing the air. Couples that pass through the gate have the custom of kissing under the arch. Leaving the park, one has to cross the city towards the last monument of the Heroes Path.
The Endless Column
On the same axis as the first two monuments but about 1 kilometer away on the other side of the city, the Endless Column is among the most famous and important monuments of modern art. The column was the only monument commissioned by the city to honor the heroes of World War I, but Brâncuși created a whole complex that takes universal proportions. The absolute simplicity and perfect proportions of this masterpiece makes it to continue upwards for infinity, connecting the earth and the sky, the living and the departed. Made of cast iron, the column consists of 15 full square clepsydrae elements and two halves at both ends. It rises almost 30 meters high and weights almost 30 tons. Inspired by traditional motifs sculpted by peasants into their wooden porches, the Endless Column has to be admired from all angles, taking new forms and meanings.
Other Sights of Targu Jiu
Having discovered these superb works of art, we can continue exploring the town of Târgu Jiu and its surrounding area, which also features several other interesting attractions, like the Museum of History, the Museum of Art, the St. Voivode Church, the St. Apostles Church, the Traditional Architecture Museum of Curtișoara or the Constantin Brâncuși Memorial House in the village of Hobița.
Best Experiences of Targu Jiu
What to do in Targu Jiu
Places to stay in Targu Jiu
Best Accommodation in Targu Jiu
8.8 Rating from 364 Reviews!
Located just 600 meters from the Heroes Path, this splendid boutique hotel features exceptional design with comfortable and fully-equipped rooms, an excellent restaurant, a bar and free parking for its guests!
9.6 Rating from 326 Reviews!
One of the best reviewed and most appreciated accommodation in Târgu Jiu, it is located just 5 minutes from the masterpieces of Brâncuși. Apart from the excellent rooms, it also features one of the best restaurants in town!
9.0 Rating from 456 Reviews!
Located right next to the park that features the first two monuments of the Heroes Path, this lovely guesthouse offers nice rooms with private bathrooms, a charming terrace and a delicious traditional restaurant!
Places to Eat in Targu Jiu
Best Restaurants in Targu Jiu
- Trattoria da Vittoria – Located right in central square of Targu Jiu, this stylish restaurant offers international cuisine at high standards and a cozy atmosphere.
- Casa Vera Restaurant – A 2 minutes walk from the city center, this highly reviewed restaurant offers an extensive menu with exceptional recipes.
- Hanul Domnesc – One of the old restaurants of Targu Jiu, it is famous for its delicious traditional Romanian food and welcoming ambiance.