Bistrita

Introduction to Transylvania

Transylvania is filled with cities and areas offering incredible views – and even with people who welcome you with open arms. If the villages are too small and far too ordinary for some, the cities tell a completely different story. The urban area of Romania, particularly in Transylvania, also reflects on the municipality of Bistrița. This city, also recognized as the residence of Bistrița-Năsăud County, has a population of 75,056 inhabitants (according to statistical data from the end of 2011).

Historical Context

However, the city has not always been detached from reality and dangers. Between 1241 and 1242, the locality was besieged by a Mongol invasion, which affected a large part of what was then the Hungarian kingdom. The hardships for the city of Bistrița were even greater, as many cities were usually economically, financially, industrially, and in many other ways developed before such an event took place.

Architectural Highlights

Today, the city of Bistrița boasts an impressive number of architectural monuments that are worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Among them:

• The Bistrița Fortress is currently well-preserved, having been built sometime between the 15th and 16th centuries.
• The renowned Sugălete houses a complex made up of 13 buildings typical of the 15th and 16th centuries, in Renaissance style.
• The Silver Smith's House and Ion Zidaru's House, the latter being the oldest building in Bistrița.
• The Palace of Culture is still visited by a large number of tourists eager to walk in the footsteps of those who lived long ago in these areas.

Religious Significance

In the lands of Transylvania, religion has always played an extremely important role. Thus, the city of Bistrița is home to several places of worship, especially:

• The Evangelical Church (built in the 14th century with strong Gothic style accents, rising to a height of 75 meters).
• The Church of the Entrance of the Mother of God into the Temple (built in Gothic style and publicly displayed since the 19th century, with Greek-Catholic roots and Cistercian influences).
• The Roman Catholic Church.
• The Synagogue.

In short, each group of people who settled and surged upon the city has left its mark, ensuring that their area would be distinctly defined.

Cultural Experiences

On the other hand, if you find yourself in Bistrița, it is imperative to stop by:

• Galeria Arcade 24
• The characteristic museums
• The memorial sites

Only then will you be able to grasp the rhythm of this majestic Transylvanian city.