The city that sits at the foot of the Eastern Carpathians is renowned for its sculpted gates, for the houses made in a traditional architectural style, and last but not least, for the way the locals still keep the traditions. At the same time, Baia Mare is a city rich in historical buildings and monuments, relaxation areas, parks, museums and theatres.
The first documentary attestation of the place was made in 1329, under the name of “Rivlus Dominarum”. In 1346 it became a free city, after which it made the transition to a commercial and craftsman center.
During the 15th century, while under the Huns’ rule, the city saw great economic development. The 16th century was marked by several protests from miners and craftsmen.
The period in which Baia Mare was under the Habsburg occupation brought about numerous changes, some at the administrative level. The industrial development of the city took place in the 19th century. After the Great Union of 1918, a Romanian administration is established.
After World War II, mining and metallurgy were the main industrial activities.
Baia Mare is located in the northwestern part of Romania and is the residence of the Maramureș County. The city is located in the Baia Mare depression, at the foot of the Gutâi mountains. This area is home to many underground treasures and is characterised by idyllic landscapes. In the vicinity of the city there are hills and mountains, the highest being the Creasta Cocoșului massif (1450 m). Its neighbours are: to the north – Ukraine, to the east – Suceava county, to the south – Bistrița-Năsăud county, and to the west – Satu Mare.
Stephen’s Tower – It is an emblematic historical and architectural monument, associated with the church dedicated to “Saint King Stephen”. Built in the 15th century, this impressive bell tower was initiated by Prince Ioan of Hunedoara and completed under the reign of Matthias Corvinus, marking the victory over the Ottomans. With a height of approximately 50 meters, it offers a spectacular panorama of the city. Recently restored as part of a rehabilitation project funded by the Regional Operational Program, Stephen’s Tower is now a particularly attractive tourist destination for those interested in history and medieval architecture.
The Museum of Mineralogy – It holds over 1000 exhibits of rocks and fossils. Many of these are unique pieces worldwide.
The County Museum of Ethnography and Art – It is a cultural treasure that preserves and exhibits the richness of local traditions and art.
The Butchers’ Bastion – It is an impressive historical monument dating back to the medieval period. Originally built in 1469 as part of the city’s defensive system, this bastion was used for the defense and protection of the local community. Today, it represents an important tourist attraction, offering visitors an insight into the medieval history of the city and a perspective on fortified architecture from that period.
The Planetarium – It is a fascinating place where visitors can travel through the universe and discover the wonders of the cosmos. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, being the most modern equipment in Romania, the planetarium offers captivating projections of the starry sky, constellations, and planets. It is an ideal place to learn about astronomy and experience unique sensations, suitable for both children and adults passionate about astronomy and space exploration.
The closest airport to Baia Mare is the “Maramures International Airport”. The airlines that fly here are Austrian Airlines, BlueAir, and Tarom. If you want to go from Bucharest to Baia Mare, this would be the fastest way to get there.
If you prefer to travel by train, Baia Mare Railway Station is one of the most important railway junctions in the northern part of Romania and has direct connections to most cities and towns in the country.
If you prefer a faster option, you can choose to travel by bus/minibus. Here you will find all the necessary information you might need: bus stations and stops, departure and arrival times and destinations.
If you are coming from Bucharest by car, the recommended route is Bucharest – Pitești – Râmnicu Vâlcea – Alba Iulia – Cluj-Napoca – Dej – Baia Mare (593 km).