Standing grandiose on the shore of the Black Sea, the ghostly casino is a reminder of noble times long gone. It was as if I was there, amongst the socialites, in this brief daydream.
A short weekend trip to the city of Constanta reminded me that there was a certain structure I had heard lots about. Asking my boyfriend if we could go and see it up close, he suggested we try and also have a photo-shoot while at it. A Google search after, I learned that for a limited time, the general public was allowed to visit the interior of the wondrous structure. You cannot imagine my delight upon reading such news; given that the casino had been abandoned since 1990.
Reaching the famous boardwalk of the city, you cannot help but stop in your tracks as you firstly lay eyes upon the abandoned casino. An astonishing Art Nouveau building, caressed by the tumultuous waves of the agitated sea, a haven to flocks of seagulls. It took me a couple of minutes before I could regather my posture and keep walking towards it.
The news were true! The front door was sprung open and many were going in and out through it. Upon stepping in, an eerie feeling got hold of me. Soft rays of light came through the shattered windows, dust particles danced everywhere and I could no longer hear anyone else that shared the grand hall with us.
The desolate condition in which the structure is in, is not an impediment in imagining how luxurious it must have been in its prime. Walls richly decorated with flowers and leaves, magnificent chandeliers still hanging from the high ceilings, the grand staircase still adorned in what once used to be a red carpet. It was as if I could see the rich socialites still making their way through the corridors, or dancing to the cheerful tones of the orchestra.
Reality hit when we inquired about the possibility of snapping some pictures on the staircase. The security officer spit out a solemn “no” without turning his gaze to meet ours. Such a pity; I thought. Who knows if the structure will ever be restored to its former glory. It felt as if I had to bid my final goodbyes to a beloved person when I stepped outside.
But no matter, no one would destroy my fantasy.
I invite you to read all about the tumultuous past of this wonderful structure here and I truly hope you get to visit it some day.
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Lots of love!
Source: Google
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