Constanta, Romania’s oldest continuously inhabited city, has a captivating past of over 2,500 years. Legend says that Jason and the Argonauts visited Constanta after their quest for the Golden Fleece.
Originally known as Tomis, the city was founded by Greek colonists from Miletos in the 6th century BC. Later, the Romans conquered it in 71 BC and renamed it Constantiana in honor of Emperor Constantine the Great’s sister.
Gateway to the Black Sea
Situated on the western coast of the Black Sea, Constanta is 185 miles north of Istanbul and the Bosphorus Strait (Turkey) and 100 miles north of the port of Varna (Bulgaria). As Romania’s largest seaport, it plays a crucial role in trade and commerce.
Architectural Gems and Seaside Charm
Constanta’s Old City Centre boasts a wealth of Greek and Roman vestiges, historic buildings, and colorful facades. Explore Ovid Square, named after the first major Roman poet, Ovid, who was exiled here in AD 8. Don’t miss the bronze statue of Ovid, designed by Italian sculptor Ettore Ferrari in 1887.
Cultural Hub and Beach Resorts
Today, the city thrives as an important cultural and economic center. Its archaeological treasures, ancient ruins, grand Casino, museums, and vibrant shops make it a focal point for Black Sea coast tourism. Whether you’re strolling along sandy beaches, discovering old villages, or exploring the nearby Danube Delta, Constanta promises an unforgettable experience.
Once an opulent Art Nouveau hotspot, the Casino Constanta is one of Romania’s most beautiful abandoned buildings.
Commanding a dramatic location right on the waterfront of the Black Sea overlooking the ancient port at Constanta, the Casino was a triumph of the Art Nouveau movement and became the city’s symbol. Worsening circumstances in Romania over the 20th century saw it fall into disrepair. It was in use as a hospital during World War II and re-purposed by the communist regime as a restaurant. Maintaining the elaborate structure became expensive, and the building closed in 1990.
Despite occasional efforts at restoration, it’s remained abandoned ever since. While it’s owned by the municipality and closed to the public, Romanian authorities have never shown much interest in enforcing the closure.
There are a lot of legends and secrets about the origin of the casino. One such legend claims that a navigator built Constanta Casino, whose daughter died young, at 17 years old. Her father, the story goes, decided to build the Casino for young people to share moments that his daughter couldn’t. If you look from the top, the casino supposed to look like a hearse and the windows like graves.
If you’re searching for excitement, Mamaia resort is the place for you. Mamaia has earned the nickname “the resort that never sleeps”, thanks to its cool festivals and vibrant nightlife. During the day you can chill on the beach, or go windsurfing, jet skiing or parasailing, while at night there are plenty of shows and parties that will keep you awake until dawn, including performances from some of the world’s best DJ’s.
The resort boasts a great location too, nestled away on a beach on the north side of Constanta city. The resort will host a variety of events throughout the summer months. If you’re visiting in July you can check out the Neversea music festival or the Color Run, a fun marathon challenge. In August there’s the Sunwaves electronic music festival, as well as the Strongman Mamaia challenge and the Romanian Navy Day celebrations.
Finally, in September, there’s Mamaia’s Triathlon Challenge. Whether you want to go clubbing or you want to hit the beach, there’s always something going on.