Stephen’s Tower | Baia Mare

Stephen's Tower (Turnul Ștefan) is the symbolic landmark of Baia Mare, a 15th-century Gothic bell tower that remains the most significant remnant of the city's medieval cathedral.

Visual Characteristics

The tower is a 40-meter-tall structure built of hewn stone. It features a square base that transitions into an octagonal belfry at the upper level. The roof is a steep, copper-clad pyramid with four smaller turrets at its base, a design signifying the city's historical right to exercise capital punishment (jus gladii). The facade is characterized by narrow lancet windows and a large mechanical clock with visible dials on all four sides.

Location & Access Logistics

The tower is located in Piața Cetății (Fortress Square), just off the main historical center (Piața Libertății).

Public Transport: Accessible via bus lines stopping at "Piața Izvoare" or "Centru."

Access: The interior is open to visitors via a steep, narrow stone and wooden staircase. Climbing the 165 steps leads to the observation gallery.

Admission: A small entry fee is required. Opening hours are typically Tuesday–Sunday (10:00–18:00).

Historical & Ecological Origin

Commissioned by John Hunyadi (Iancu de Hunedoara) in 1446 and completed by his son, King Matthias Corvinus, the tower was originally the belfry of the Saint Stephen Cathedral. The cathedral itself was destroyed by repeated fires and lightning strikes, notably in 1769, after which only the tower was preserved and reinforced. The surrounding square was recently rehabilitated, integrating the archaeological ruins of the cathedral's foundation into a public plaza.

Key Highlights & Activities

The Observation Deck: Offers a 360-degree panorama of Baia Mare, the Gutâi Mountains, and the Ignis Peak.

The Bells: The tower houses two massive bronze bells, cast in the 19th century.

Archaeological Site: The paved square at the base of the tower features glass-covered sections revealing the medieval foundations of the former cathedral.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The tower is equipped with internal electric lighting for the staircase. The surrounding square is fully pedestrianized and features benches, modern lighting, and 5G cellular coverage. Public restrooms and cafes are located in the adjacent Piața Libertății (0.1 km away).

Best Time to Visit

The tower is best visited in the late afternoon for panoramic photography of the city and mountains. During the winter holidays, the square is a primary site for the city's lighting displays and Christmas market.

Facts & Legends

Local legend says that John Hunyadi built the tower to celebrate his victory over the Ottomans at Belgrade. Another historical fact is that the tower's clock has been replaced several times; the current mechanism dates to the late 19th century and is still meticulously maintained by a local clockmaker.

Nearby Landmarks

Piața Libertății (Old Town Square): 0.1 km South.

Mineralogy Museum: 0.8 km Southwest.

Butcher’s Tower: 0.4 km Southeast.

The Arts Center (Colonia Pictorilor): 0.6 km West.