Unseen Romania

Timisoara, Little Vienna

Timisoara, also called "Little Vienna", belonged for a very long time to the Habsburg Empire and the entire city center consists of buildings built in the Kaiser era, which is reminiscent of the old Vienna. People here in Romania use to say that Timisoara is the most developed city in our country due to the fact that it is closest to the West. And it may probably be like this. There are numerous claims that Gustave Eiffel, the creator of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, built one of Timişoara's footbridges over the Bega.

Timisoara is an important university center with the emphasis on subjects like medicine, mechanics and electro-technology. It was the first European city to be lit by electric street lamps in 1884. It was also the second European and the first city in what is now Romania with horse drawn trams in 1867. So, before saying much more, you can imagine that it was ahead of the capital itself. The old city, which you must not miss, consists of historic city quarters with several historic squares and proms. These are: Cetate (Belváros in Hungarian, Innere-Stadt in German), Iosefin (Józsefváros, Josephstadt), Elisabetin (Erzsébetváros, Elisabethstadt), Fabric (Gyárváros, Fabrikstadt). Numerous bars, clubs and restaurants have opened in the old center in the fine old baroque square. Timisoara is the 4th biggest city from Romania after Bucharest, Iasi and Cluj, and the largest economic and cultural point from the west of the country.

The history

The first record of the city of Timisoara, built on the site of an ancient Roman fortress called Castrum Regium Themes, dates back to 1212. Over the years, Timisoara, the largest city in western Romania, has been influenced by many cultures. The Romans used it as an important crossroads fortress until the Tatars destroyed it in the 13th century. Conquered by Turkish armies in 1552, Timisoara remained under their protection until 1718 when the region of Banat came under Austrian rule for two centuries. Timisoara later became a vital medieval commercial and manufacturing town. Turks, Austrians, Germans and Serbs all left their mark and their influence can be seen in neighborhoods throughout the city even today.

The charm of this city, settled on the northern bank of the Bega River, lies in its distinct architectural character and vibrant cultural life. Frequently referred to as “Little Vienna,” Timisoara is home to year-round musical and theatrical performances, art galleries, museums and a buzzing nightlife. A progressive, cosmopolitan place, a place you will  surely enjoy. Thanks to a Mediterranean climate, life is best observed outdoors, in the many public squares and lush green retreats. Timisoara is easy to explore on foot. If you get tired, a tram will be along in a moment; the system is fast, frequent and efficient.
You will notice immediately the influence coming from the nearness to Austria and also the difference to the other cities from Romania.

Book a room at Hotel NH Timisoara and visit this beautiful city!

Write a comment

Name:
Email:
Subject:
Comment: *

Security Code: