Sightseeing in Timisoara - what to see. Complete travel guide

One of the oldest and most picturesque cities of the country, Timisoara was founded in the beginning of the 13th century. The city is named after the river Timis, on the banks of which have appeared first settlements. Some people call this city "a little Vienna" because of the large number of old buildings in the Baroque style. Expressive architecture, rich history and excellent infrastructure make Timisoara truly attractive to travelers.

Start your observation of the city from a visit to the central square named Unirii. The square is surrounded by amazingly beautiful medieval buildings. Catholic Cathedral is surely the main decoration of the square. This cathedral was built in the beginning of the 18th century. Its magnificent design in the Baroque style perfectly reflects best traditions of medieval architecture. The local Orthodox Church is located just near the cathedral. Here visitors can see a fine collection of icons. The best example of Gothic architecture is, without a doubt, Hunyad Castle, which is built on a hill. The castle was constructed in the 15th century. For many years it remained the residence of the governor Iancu de Hunedoara. In 1854 the castle was badly damaged by fire, but later it was restored. Nowadays the halls of the castle store the collection of Museum of the Banat Province. This is the oldest museum in Romania. Here you will find collections of historical artifacts and art objects. Some halls of the museum are devoted to natural history and ethnography.

Rose Park is considered one of the most romantic places in the city. This place is particularly beautiful during warm months of the year. Here visitors will find several hundred varieties of roses. In summertime the park simply dives the wonderful aroma that emit several millions of flowers. Diversify your walks through the picturesque parks and sightseeing with visits to local restaurants, where you will be offered to try traditional Romanian dishes. Tourists are also attracted by colorful markets and new shopping centers are located near the center of the city. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Bishop's Palace is an outstanding architectural monument. Its construction began in 1745. During its existence, the building has maintained its luxurious interior design. A large bas-relief is one of its main decorations. Inside the palace is a rich collection of religious artifacts. In 1967 it was first opened to the public.

One of the oldest buildings, that managed to survive in the city, is the Church of St. Catherine. In the 13th century, the spouse of King Robert of Anjou, Mary-Catherine by name, was buried on the grounds of the church. The church was named after her. Initially, the building was constructed in the best traditions of Baroque style. After numerous renovations, it acquired the unique features of neoclassicism.

The building of the old synagogue, which construction took place in the second half of the 19th century, is of great historical value nowadays. The building is pretty significant in size. Its appearance is an amazing combination of eclectic and Moorish architectural styles. The hall on the first floor is so big that it can accommodate up to 3000 people at once. Presently, a part of the building is occupied by the Philharmonic, several halls are allocated to exhibitions and conferences.

Timisoara Art Museum is popular with admirers of painting. Its unique collection began to emerge in 1879. Originally, unique art masterpieces were donated by city collectors and art historians. Today, the museum's collection includes more than 8500 art canvases. Since the museum's collection grew literally every year, the museum changed buildings repeatedly. Since 1947, it occupies the castle of Hunyadi.

The Weiss Palace, built in 1912, is a bright architectural monument of the early 20th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, the Weiss family used to be one of the wealthiest in the city. Its members were major industrialists, doctors, and entrepreneurs. Currently, the historical palace is privately owned. Only a few rooms located on the first floor are open to the public. They are occupied by various commercial institutions nowadays.