Bucharest, Romania - Philips Lighting (Euronext Amsterdam ticker: LIGHT), a global leader in lighting today announced the illumination of the Palace of Culture in Iasi, Romania with Philips’ architectural lighting. 

The Palace of Culture, built between 1906 – 1925, used to serve as a Palace of Justice and Administration but now holds the "Moldavia" National Museum Complex that comprises four museums. The building, known as the most spectacular example of Neogothic architecture in Romania, underwent a massive restoration  that took over seven years to complete and included the modernization of the lighting system. 

“The Palace of Culture is a true symbol of the beauty and history of Moldavia. We experienced  first-hand how innovative lighting technology seamlessly integrated with the modern materials that we used for the restoration, bringing out the very best in this historic building,” says Dr. Lăcrămioara Stratulat, Manager of the ”Moldavia” National Museum Complex. 

“We see the Palace of Culture  as an outstanding example of a building transformed into a what is a visually pleasing experience that makes full use of the art of illumination,” says Bogdan Balaci, General Manager South East Europe, Philips Lighting.

The new Philips LED lighting system highlights the building’s architectural features such as the 55 m (180 feet) high clock tower and façade with 92 windows, creating a unique identity for the community and increasing the attractiveness of the area as a tourist and business destination. 

"The Palace of Culture has undergone the most extensive restoration work since it inauguration in 1926, and we are pleased that since its grand reopening in April 2016, ithas welcomed over 300,000 visitors. A new light shines on this cultural building that plays such a key role in the city," says Viorica Frunză, Manager Impex Romcatel SA, General Designer of the rehabilitation and restoration of the Palace of Culture of Iasi.

Notes to Editors:

• The restoration of the Palace of Culture took 7 years, from December 2009 to April 2016
• The Moldavia National Museum Complex holds four museums: the Museum of Moldavian  History, Museum of Art, the Ethnographic Museum of Moldavia and the "Stefan Procopiu” Museum of Science and Technology.
• The LED lighting system is anticipated to be up to 75% more energy efficient compared to conventional lighting technologies.