THE HOUSE OF COLLECTIONS AND HERITAGE DOCUMENTS

According to the historical study conducted by historian Dr. Corneliu Gaiu and art historian Dr. Vasile Duda, the building was constructed in 1910. Initially designed as a residence, it later served various public functions (the residence of the sub-prefect, the Agricultural Chamber, the Teachers’ House). The building is set back from the street front and has two levels—basement and ground floor—with a rectangular plan. Its façade features a loggia supported by massive brick columns, an independent four-sided roof, and a wrought-iron balustrade adorned with floral decorations characteristic of Art Nouveau.

The building gained public recognition due to one of its residents, officer Matei Eminescu, the brother of poet Mihai Eminescu, who lived there between 1924 and 1929. Beyond its historical significance, the building remains one of the most expressive examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Bistrița.

Through this project, the Bistrița-Năsăud County Council and the Bistrița-Năsăud County Library aim to restore the building and establish the House of Collections and Heritage Documents, which will serve as a museum and archive. It will include the storage and display of heritage books using shelves, cabinets, exhibition panels, and display cases. Occasionally, cultural events such as presentations, conferences, book launches, screenings, and more will be organized for a maximum of 50 participants.