Calea Victoriei is one of the most impressive streets in terms of its style and history. It was first made in 1692 when Constantin Brâncoveanu, Wallachia’s prince, had it paved with wood and it connected Bucharest with Mogoșoaia, a small town located 15 km away, where the prince had built a lavish summer palace. Originally called Podul Mogoșoaiei (which in translation: Tiled Road to Mogoșoaia), the street was renamed in 1878 when victorious Romanian troops marched to celebrate Independence from the Ottoman Empire. Thus, Calea Victoriei translates to Victory Avenue. During the 19th and first half of the 20th century, it was the most fashionable and wealthy street in Bucharest -- lined with grand aristocratic mansions, bank headquarters, the Royal Palace, theatres, concert halls and the most exclusive shops.