The first anti-mall store in Bucharest to be opened in weekend

An initiative of beer producer Ursus Breweries under its brand Grolsch transforms the former department store Bucuresti, on Lipscani street from Old Town in an anti-mall. Unfortunately, the space has been laying empty for years but it will be opened between December 6-8 for those who want to see artisans and real artists. They will display their hand crafted products in the store.

For this manifesto, 15 craftsman will take part in the experiment, which is meant to encourage collective creativity and non-conformism.

The ground floor will present stands with products from those who make a living out of their passion. For example, famous Romanian tower Ivan Patzaichin, who builds boats, can be found there. On the first floor, will be the space for those who are working full-time on a daily basis, but they like to do handmade products. The last floor is dedicated to restaurants. Traditional food will be sold there, while the entertaining will be provided by music of several experimental bands.

Taking a look back in the history, the Bucuresti store was one of the iconic department stores form the communist period. Together with the Victoria store on Calea Victoriei, and Cocor and Unirea stores at Unirii Square, these were the most important shopping centers during the communist period. Out of these stores, Unirea and Cocor have been revamped and turned into modern malls, while Victoria is still a combination of new and old.

Organizers expect some 30,000 visitors during the three days of the anti-mall. The anti-mall will open on Friday, December 6, at 13,00, and concerts will start daily at 20,30.