On the Fortress

Just a few kilometres from the Hungarian border, Oradea, on both banks of the Crișul Repede River, is a great starting point for exploring Romania. With its wealth of religious and historical attractions, the city is a true paradise for visitors. The city is home to two universities, the Partium Christian University and the Oradea State University, and there is no shortage of entertainment venues either, most of which are located in the city centre. Oradea is a great start for a tour around Romania or even a one-off trip, especially in the summer months, but visitors in winter will not be disappointed either by the city's spectacular views or its Christmas events.

My favourite place in Oradea is literally the biggest attraction in the city, the Oradea Fortress. King Laszlo I of Hungary had the Premonastery of Oradea built between 1083-1095 on the site of the present fortress. The monastery was probably protected by a moat, a hedge,and a palisade. Later, during the Tartar invasion of 1241, it was fortified with a stone wall. The fortress took on its present five-pointed star shape in 1569 when the Italian Domenico da Bologna was commissioned to reinforce the existing fortifications, which were in a vulnerable state at the time, due to successive sieges.

Between 2009 and 2015, the fortress was renovated, including the installation of water, sewage, electricity, and heating networks. Following the renovation, the new buildings gave home to the fortress museum, the town museum, the bread museum, the stone museum, a gastronomic exhibition, a street of guilds, and a multifunctional cultural space. In addition, it houses several cultural institutions and a marriage hall as well.

Even today the fortress is the venue for many events, such as the Days of St. Ladislaus, the founder of the city, and various fairs and festivals. The garden is an excellent location for video clips and film shootings and is often used for photo shootings.

All in all, the fortress is an essential attraction when visiting Oradea at any time of the year, whether you are thirsty for culture or just want to take a quiet and peaceful stroll in the castle gardens.

By Lehel Szécsi

Photos: Tamás Petrus and Tamás Orosz