Crișana

The land of caves and Art Nouveau architecture.

Crișana is one of Romania’s regions known for its spa resorts, visited both for treatment and simply to enjoy a stay in a relaxing environment. However, this is not the only noteworthy aspect of Crișana.

The area boasts numerous natural resources that delight the eye. Additionally, its historical monuments and distinctive traditions complete the portrait of a region worth visiting.

Foto: Tudor Baciu
Relief

Geography

The region is located in the northwest of Romania and is bordered to the north by Maramureș, to the west by Hungary, to the east by Transylvania, and to the south by Banat. Crișana is a place where Romanians live harmoniously alongside various ethnic minorities: Serbs, Slovaks, Roma, and Germans.

The region features a varied landscape, characterized by mountains and hills, as well as expansive plains and meadows. The mountain ranges that impress any visitor with their grandeur include the Bihor Mountains, Vlădeasa, Codru-Moma, Pădurea Craiului, and Plopiș.

The territory hosts a collection of natural treasures, represented by caves, gorges, and canyons that fascinate with their multitude and diversity. The caves in Crișana are among the main attractions for adventurous tourists. Some recommended ones to visit include: Bear’s Cave (Peștera Urșilor), Scărișoara Cave (Peștera de la Scărișoara), Farcu Crystal Cave (Peștera cu cristale de la Farcu), and the Ice Cave Focul Viu (Peștera Ghețarul Focul Viu).

Did you know that?

  • Bear’s Cave (Peștera Urșilor) in Bihor was discovered by chance in 1975. Fossils of a bear species that became extinct 15,000 years ago were found here.

  • Scărișoara Cave, or the Ice Cave of Scărișoara, houses the largest subterranean glacier in Romania.
  • In Oradea, there is the only evangelical Christian university both nationally and in Europe. It is called Partium Christian University.
  • In Crișana, some of the finest red wine varieties are produced, such as Pinot Noir and Merlot.
Important cities of interest

Cities in Crișana

Oradea

Oradea is a city that offers a bit of everything: history, culture, and adventure. Historical buildings such as those in Union Square (Piața Unirii), the Baroque Complex, the Roman Catholic Cathedral, and the Darvas-La Roche House are some of the cultural landmarks of the city.

After exploring the cultural scene, you can visit Băile Felix, which is located near the city. The Nymphaea Aquapark is also a must-visit.

Arad

Arad is a historic center where you can stroll along Revolution Boulevard (Bulevardul Revoluției), admire the country’s first pedagogical school, and visit the Arad Fortress, which served as a military prison during the Austro-Hungarian period.

Zalău

Zalău is a town where you can see the Wesselényi statue and mansion, the Roman fort of Porolissum, and the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral.

Tășnad

Tășnad is a town renowned for its thermal baths and the treatments available there.

Tourist Attractions

  • Băile Felix is the largest spa resort in Romania. Here, you can benefit from a wide range of treatments (hydrotherapy, thermotherapy, electrotherapy), and also enjoy yourself at one of the modernized aqua parks, which adhere to European standards.

 

  • Băile 1 Mai is another spa resort not to be missed and is adjacent to Băile Felix.

 

  • The Botanical Garden in Jibou offers a relaxing setting where you can admire numerous plant species and stroll along the Japanese Garden Path. In addition to these features, the garden includes an aquarium complex and a zoo park.

 

  • Castles and fortresses: Șiria, Bathory, Șoimoș, Biharia, etc.

 

  • The Apuseni Mountains conceal one of the most complex underground cave systems in the world, and above ground, you can discover breathtaking landscapes. Just bring out your adventurous spirit, and you’re guaranteed unforgettable moments!

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