Oradea is one of the most beautiful and developed city in Romania. In the beginning of the 20th century it was inhabited almost solely by Hungarians. Till today Hungarian influences are seen there not only in architecture, but also on the streets. What is worth to see there?
The city was founded in 10-11th century as Varadinium and for many centuries used to be one of the most important borough of the Kingdom of Hungary. In the 20th century it was going from hands to hands, belonging in turns to Hungary or Romania. Nowadays it is one of the most important Romanian urban centres, that can simultaneously boasts of interesting architecture being mix of social realism, baroque and secessionist style. Especially interesting is a historical centre of the city, that was vastly renovated in 2002. Lovely pictures are guaranteed on Strada Republicia, one of the most beautiful streets of the whole Transylvania, by which town houses in Art Nouveau style are situated.
The biggest attractions of the city are baroque buildings of the Museum of the Country by Kereszami (Muzeul Țării Crișurilor) with 365 windows and the biggest cathedral in the country, which is Catedrala barocă. It is also worth to see a pentagonal fortress Cetatea Oradea, that now serves as premises of the Institute of Fine Arts, as well as located nearby park of 1st December, called the green heart of the city. Must see is also a church Biserica cu Lună with clock mechanism showing phases of the Moon and monumental building of Teatrul de Stat. The city is also known for enormous number of churches – it has them currently more than 100!
In Oradea, apart from elegant restaurants in the Old Town, there are operating many bars and eateries, where for small amount of money (2-3 leis) you can try local specialities such as plainte, pies stuffed with potatoes or cheese. Romanian titbits are also ciorbă de burtă, sopu with tripe and cream, mamałyga (corn groats) and sarmale, small meat balls served in grape leaves or pickled leaves of cabbage. Where to eat? Look for cheap, home cuisine outside of the city’s centre or go to restaurants for instance Allegria, Hanul cu Noroc or Ziga Zaga.
