Cula Izvoranu‑Geblescu – Historic Fortified Mansion in Brabova

Located just 32 km west of Craiova, in the village of Brabova, Cula Izvoranu‑Geblescu is one of the most iconic examples of fortified rural architecture in the Oltenia region. Built in the second half of the 18th century by the noble Izvoranu family, the cula originally had a single level and was later expanded with two additional floors by boyar Constantin Braboveanu. In 1841, the estate was inherited by the Geblescu family, whose name the monument still bears today. Strategically designed to protect against Ottoman incursions and haiduk raids, the mansion stands out for its massive walls and distinctive fortified boyar architecture.

The structure features walls over 70 cm thick, made of four layers of brick for strength and thermal insulation. The interior is organized across three levels – ground floor, first floor, and an open veranda – connected by an internal staircase. Hidden rooms equipped with observation holes and movable stairs showcase the ingenious defensive techniques of the era. After decades of deterioration following its state takeover in 1940, the cula underwent an extensive EU‑funded restoration project, recently completed, which returned the building to its authentic historical appearance and preserved an important landmark of Oltenia’s heritage.