County seat of the county of the same name, the city of Arad is delightful for tourism. Geographically it lies in the west of the country, on the border between Crișana and Banat, two well-known historic regions of Romania. Interestingly, Arad stands on both banks of the Mureș River and ranks among the country’s most important industrial, road and rail centres.
In recent years more and more travel enthusiasts have turned their gaze towards this county. We are talking about Romanian visitors and foreigners alike, fascinated by the local tourist character.
As for the area’s attractions, you will discover a multitude of very interesting places and buildings.
1. Arad Fortress
Arad Fortress is a fitting example in this context, ranking among the most visited tourist attractions in the whole county. It was built on the bank of the Mureș, and the whole process is said to have taken place during the reign of Empress Maria Theresa, between 1762 and 1783.
The fortress stands out for unique architecture, designed in a star shape, with three rows of underground casemates. The casemates had a strategic role and could easily be flooded whenever the fortress was attacked by enemies.
Inside the fortress stands the Franciscan Church, a place of worship of great historical and architectural importance. Did you know that the church was inhabited by monks until 1861? Later the fortress became one of the military prisons of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, keeping that function until 1918.
2. The historic centre
Returning to the central part of the city, you will not miss a walk through the Historic Centre, which is also the oldest core of Arad. Here Avram Iancu Square was created, an area with numerous colourful buildings hundreds of years old.
3. Bohus Palace
You do not have to cover a great distance to get from the Historic Centre to Bohus Palace. This absolutely superb building dates from 1913 and was built in the Wiener Secession style.
4. The Red Church
We continue with another outstanding religious monument, the Red Church. Any tourist who passes in front stops for a few moments to admire its beauty and grandeur. The polished brick paving the exterior gives it extra charm and also illustrates the neo-Gothic style. Over 46 metres high, the Red Church is visible from any part of the city, so do not forget to visit it if you reach Arad.
And the clocks in the church tower are a true delight for visitors, who never tire of photographing them at every opportunity.
So it seems Arad is promising for tourism. Variety is the word that best describes western tourism, and if you have not yet reached these parts, perhaps 2023 will give you the chance.
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