Buildings lined up one after another until the monumental Triumphal Arch appeared before you. It was then you realized you had arrived in the “Paris of the East” and that what awaited you was far from a random assortment of diverse structures. Admiring the architecture that stood as a testament to a rich history, you began to wonder if five days would be enough to even scratch the surface of all that surrounded you.

The gathering began with an Ice Breaker event at one of the most beautiful places in the city, “Linea | Closer to the Moon”, which truly lives up to its name. From one of its rooftops, the view stretched across domed rooftops and through the alleys of the old town. Attendees came from all corners of the world, not just Europe. New friendships were formed, and old ones rekindled. It was heartwarming to see that positive energy and good ideas transcended differences in nationality and age, with the vibrant energy of diverse yet similar minds filling the space.

The hosts ensured that the next few days were filled with a rich program, so everyone could find their niche in one of the represented fields. Whether you were into programming, writing, medicine, science, art, or simply couldn’t decide which field you belonged to (like most people), there were active workshops to participate in, providing opportunities to connect with others for potential collaboration or simply exchange knowledge and ideas. 

Since AI has ushered us into a completely new era, placing us at the threshold of a new revolution in human history, much was said about the positive and negative impacts of implementing artificial intelligence in various spheres. 

A lecture on viruses, covering systematization, basic pharmacological principles, and reflections on COVID-19, left a particularly strong impression on Mensa’s youngest members. 

Undoubtedly, the human brain is the most fascinating machine, much like the cosmos, continuously being explored—whether scientifically or directly. Naturally, several lectures and discussions were dedicated to the evolution of the human brain and contemporary efforts to deepen the understanding of cognitive processes for the advancement of humanity.

Mathematicians and skilled illustrators were particularly intrigued by a lecture and workshop on fractals, while another group of enthusiasts tried to fit some of the city’s monumental buildings onto A4 paper using various drawing and painting techniques. 

Lovers of the written word who actively create prose or poetry had the chance to engage in a creative process and constructive discussion with the brilliant Melani Bell, which spread through the room so quickly that an hour felt like just 15 minutes. If you were more coordinated than I am, and I believe you were, you could try your hand at various dance styles.

Earlier, I mentioned some of the city’s monumental landmarks, but no review would be complete without mentioning more of them, as they form the backbone of Bucharest’s cultural and historical heritage. 

The Palace of Parliament, or the People’s House as older residents still call it, is the largest building in Europe and the second largest in the world. Nicolae Ceaușescu, a not-so-beloved figure from the communist era, mandated that all materials used in its construction be of local origin, even importing silkworms from the East to ensure the silk produced was domestically sourced. When the tons of marble, bronze, glass, wood, steel, and fabrics used in its construction and furnishing are calculated, the palace is unequivocally the heaviest building according to the Guinness Book of Records. This neoclassical giant, adorned with Doric and Ionic columns, cannot be fully explored, as only 30% of the building is in use, with a large portion still unfinished. To enhance the elevation on which the palace stands, one of the most beautiful boulevards was built, extending to the city’s urban area. 

The University building is another city landmark, having been graced by many prominent figures such as Emil Cioran, Eugène Ionesco, and Mircea Eliade. 

Another must-mention is the Romanian Athenaeum, adorned not only with Doric columns but also Ionic and Corinthian ones, emphasizing the beauty and subtlety associated with the building’s functions. The Athenaeum is home to the “George Enescu” Philharmonic, which gathers annually in a concert hall decorated with a fresco frieze. 

Other must-see places include the National Museum of Romanian History, housing numerous relics, and the National Museum of Art with its European Art Gallery. Besides the privilege of seeing Brancusi’s The Danaid, you won’t remain indifferent to sculptures by Camille Claudel or Rodin, or paintings by the greatest European artists like Monet, Courbet, Signac, Rubens, Tintoretto, Rembrandt, Van Eyck, El Greco, Da Vinci, Bellini, and many others.

The Gala Dinner took place in a lovely atmosphere, with everyone seizing the opportunity to exchange impressions and experiences accumulated over the past few days. My colleagues Marina Vojinović, Ilijana Tijanić, Vladan Barović, Tripo Vuković, Mitar Đukanović, and I made a contribution to promoting Montenegro as the host of EMAG 2026, which will be one of the most significant events for our country. 

Unlike last year, when the team’s task was to secure a hosting location, this year we focused more on acquiring useful organizational skills and representing Montenegro through informal communication with other members. Montenegro managed to win great sympathy and interest; now, it remains to use the opportunity to present our country through the cultural, intellectual, and natural beauty we have in abundance.