Targu-Mures Things to Do Tips by roomania

A Lovely Walk

Beyond the Citadel there is little known street to tourists. Known nearly exclusively by locals, it's not published in any guide book, but to those who choose to diverge from the tried and true, perhaps well-worn guide book path, you shall be rewarded with a memorable walk.

Situated behind the Citadel away from the center of town and Pta. Trandafirilor, during the spring and summer months young couples are seen holding hands and sitting on the benches that line the tree-lined boulevard. During the autumn and winter months, couples continue to meander up and down the street holding hands and sharing stolen kisses.

It truly is a very remakable, hidden location known to most locals and all lovers. It definitely has a romantic, European feel to the street.

It has something to offer everyone, giving one time alone with their thoughts or to share an amorous moment with that special someone.

University of Medicine

Consult any reputable guidebook and it will undoubtedly speak of Targu Mures', "strong academic tradition." This is certainly represented by the University of Medicine. Arguably, the top medical school in Romania, (along with the University of Iasi and the University of Bucharest) it certainly is the best school of medicine in Transylvania. Situated along Str. Mihai Viteazul, it is perched on the hill across from, "Heroes Park" and up a bit from Mures County Hospital. In front of the school of medicine is a small but relaxing "Botanical garden", which is particularly beautiful during the Spring through Autumn months.

Synagogue

West of Piata Trandafirilor, along Str. Aurel Filmon is a synagogue which dates from 1900. Although, it has been damaged as a result of religious intolerance and the work of vandals, the gates usually remain locked. However it endures as a testament of the hardships endured by the near 6000 Jews who inhabited the city and peacefully co-exisited alongside Romanian Orthodoxy and Catholics, before World War II. It also serves as a physical reminder that Targu Mures was once a religiously tolerant, open and welcoming city.

Address: Str. Aurel Filmon Nr. 21

Directions: Str. Aurel Filmon runs parallel to the west of Pta. Trandafirilor.

The Palace of Culture & "Hall of Mirrors"

The Palace of Culture is one of the most representative examples of a Transylvanian building. Construction began in 1911 and was completed in 1913, in the style and manner of the Lechnerien school.

The Palace is impressive not only for its majolica roof, the mosaics and relieves on the exterior facade, but also it is home to the "Hall of Mirrors," stained-glass windows, which are located on the second floor and gaze over the Prefecture. In addition to hosting the "Hall of Mirrors," today the Palace of Culture houses the Tourist Information Bureau on the ground floor, as well as the Mures Philharmonic, which performs every Thursday in its concert hall, except during summer.

Primiaria (City hall) & Prefecture

On the southern end of Piata Tradafirailor in successive order is the "Primaria", town hall; the Prefecture and the majestic Palace of Culture with its Secessionist-style, colored roof.

The Prefecture built at the turn of the century was designed to give a modern, urban feel to the city at the beginning of the twentieth century. Constructed during 1905 to 1907 it has served as the town's hall for over 55 years before housing the Prefecture. The most distinctive aspect of the Prefecture is its sixty-meter tower, initially designed as a fire-tower. In front of the Prefecture sits a statue of "Romulus & Remus", presented to the city in 1924 by the Italian state as a reminder of its Latin origin.

Citadel & Hungarian Reformed Church

In 1602 a fortification was built north of the present city center, which houses the distinguished Hungarian Reformed church, was built in pentagonal layout comprises seven bastions, of which five continue to bear the guild's name that by tradition, supported and defended them.

As with all citadels of the time, it was constructed to house the town's inhabitants during times of war. Today, the citadel and church remain, however, townspeople congregate to celebrate more joyous occasions such as the annual beer and wine festivals held in June and October respectively.

Romanian Orthodox Church

The City of Targu Mures centers around Piata Trandafirilor, the "Rose Market". At the northern end of the piata lies the magnificent Orthodox Cathedral. The Cathedral had its southern facade restored and until recently was obscured by scaffolding. However, having completed restoration and with the scaffolding removed it reveals a beautiful copper edifice that looks over the piata and the statue of Avram Iancu.