Listen to an organ performance while admiring the interior of Romania’s largest Baroque church.
The Roman Catholic Basilica, also known as the Assumption Cathedral of Oradea, is part of the city’s impressive Baroque Complex. Constructed in the late 18th century, the cathedral features beautiful oil paintings and valuable religious artifacts. Attend one of the organ performances regularly hosted here and examine the historic chest containing the relics of St. Ladislaus.
The church was constructed between 1752 and 1779. Look for a bronze statue of St. Ladislaus, the King of Hungary and one of the country’s important Christian heroes, which is set prominently in front of the cathedral’s grand exterior.
Enter the cathedral and admire the gorgeous interior walls, which are made from marble imported from Carrara and Vascau. Admire the stunning fresco inside the cupola, the work of Austrian painter Johann Schöph. The church also contains a lovely 18th-century organ. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear it being played during one of the recitals often held here.
Head to the church’s small museum to see a chest containing the relics of St. Ladislaus. The museum also features Gothic and Renaissance tombstones recovered from the Fortress of Oradea as well as other interesting religious artifacts.
Save time to see the Corridor of Canons, which is located outside, just east of the cathedral. The corridor actually consists of 10 individual buildings, with numerous archways creating the illusion of an infinite line. Part of the cathedral’s original Baroque design created by Austrian master architect F.A. Hillebrandt, the corridor’s buildings were constructed between 1750 and 1875.
Spot the Baroque Palace near the Corridor of Canons. The cathedral, along with the palace and canon row, are collectively known as the city’s Baroque Complex.
Find the Roman Catholic Basilica under 2 miles (3 kilometers) north of the city center. Get here using public transportation. The museum is closed Sunday and Monday. An admission fee is required to enter. Check out this historic cathedral and its neighboring buildings, all of which are stunning examples of Baroque architecture.
