Muzeul Național de Artă Contemporană al României

The National Museum of Contemporary Art, known as MNAC, has operated since 2004 inside a wing of the Palace of Parliament, the colossal building raised during the dictatorship. The contrast is deliberate and far from subtle: living, experimental art installed within the heaviest symbol of communist megalomania. For many visitors, this very dialogue between content and container is the main reason to come, and the modern fit-out, with glass lifts running up the façade, sharpens the rupture between old and new.

The collection and temporary exhibitions span Romanian and international art of recent decades, from painting and photography to video, performance and installation, with a focus on the scene after 1989. The spaces are generous and bright, and the upper-floor terraces offer unexpected views over the city and Bulevardul Unirii. Entry is through a side door of the Palace, from Izvor Street, with a security check, so it pays to plan your arrival a little.

Good to know

• MNAC's entrance is separate from the Palace of Parliament tours; check the official website for opening hours and any booking requirements.
• Bring photo ID for the security check.
• Afterwards, explore other cultural attractions around the city for a fuller picture of the contemporary scene.

If you care about art being made today and about how Romania processes its recent past, MNAC is one of the most stimulating and provocative stops in the capital.