The ideal destination for a city break, Targu Mureş is known for its medieval architecture, ancient culture, jazz festivals, Transylvanian cuisine and historical landmarks. Once part of the Kingdom of Hungary, the "city of roses" is a melting pot of Romanian and Hungarian cultures. A major academic centre, Targu Mureș is home to one of the most acclaimed medical universities in the country and welcomes students from across the world.
The epicentre of modern arts in Targu Mureş, the Palace of Culture, should be the first stop on your itinerary. This Art Nouveau building with stained glass, ceiling murals and oriel windows was once home to the country’s first drama school, along with the city’s cinema and several fine arts schools. Nowadays, it hosts the local philharmonic and library, as well as the art galleries of the co-located Mureş County Museum.
Several historical attractions are part of this museum complex, including the history and archaeology section, Gurghiu Castle and Zau de Câmpie Castle. The "Ethnographic Museum" offers an immersive audio-visual experience that vividly depicts the trials and tribulations of local townsfolk and peasants under foreign rule.
As for the Călugăreni Archaeological Park, it’s the site of a Roman command camp on a linear defensive structure known as "limes". This former border outpost now plays host to archaeology workshops and an outdoor cinema. With its permanent Time Box Pavilion exhibits, this site reveals fascinating Roman facts relevant to the digging carried out in the area.
The fascinating Targu Mureș Citadel, which dates back to the 15th century, is a magnificent example of defensive architecture. As you walk by reconstructed traps and cunning devices once used to prevent the Austrian conquest, you get a sense of the scale of this foiled plan and the complexity of the restoration work. Visit in the summer to enjoy the courtyard at its best, with live music and historical events at every turn.
After a long day of exploring historical landmarks, set aside some time for the city’s many green spaces. They are scattered across the city, in central squares, on the citadel boulevard, beside the local botanical garden and zoo, flanking the local stadium, and around a handful of beautiful churches. Be sure to visit the Apple Tree of Farkas Bolyai, which is named after a local mathematician known for his contributions to geometry.
Walkers will enjoy a leisurely stroll and stunning panoramic views at the top of the stairs at the Romanian Heroes Park, which is part of the Invictus royal duathlon’s yellow route. But anyone eager for a shopping spree will turn back to the city centre for the Mureş Mall or head further west to the Promenade Mall, which is always ready to entice visitors with its stores, cinema and supermarkets.
Finally, a day out with the kids without a dip and a splash at the local lido is unthinkable. "Complexul Weekend" is a recreation complex with several pools, water slides, sports and play areas for children and those who are young at heart. Bring some swimwear and enjoy this inviting oasis on a sweltering summer’s day.
