Alexandru Lăpușneanu Street

Lăpușneanu Street was always the connection bridge between the north side of the city, Copou Quarter, and the centre, Union Square. Once known as the Street of Joy, it was the alley of pleasant walks and of terraces. After 1830, the street filled with merchants from other countries, and some became owners of elegant shop. The Jewish enterprises were the most frequent, and included shops for books (Haifler), writing tools (Ornstein), music boxes (Weinstein), photo studio (Weiss), and antiques (Ackerman). They became famous through quality merchandise and excellent services, but then disappeared with the Second World War. Here, the tradition of old books sale is still alive today and “D. I. Grumăzescu” Antique Shop is a unique place, with pictures and stories of this long ago Iași. (PHOTO : Mihai BULAI)