A city with a rich history, strong cultural identity and unspoilt heritage, Bacau was first documented at the cusp of the 15th century, during the time of Voivode Alexander the Good. Having once stood at the crossroads of ancient trade routes between the regions of Transylvania, Moldavia and Wallachia, this former customs hub is currently off the tourist trail and all the more enjoyable for it. Known best as the birthplace and stomping ground of some of Romania's greatest artists, this university city continues to impress with its Medieval architecture and its designer parks.
Every tour of Bacau should start with a romantic stroll through the lush green space known locally as the "Park of the Roses". Dating back to 1850, this park is the city's oldest and most colourful, displaying a kaleidoscope of roses and its very own Ginkgo biloba tree. Within walking distance are a series of other beloved public spaces, such as Cancicov Park, a 24-acre 'green lung' with stately fountains and monuments. It's here that the Ion Borcea Natural Science Museum awaits with its exotic plant greenhouse as well as algae, moss, mushroom, butterfly, birds, and mammal exhibits. The local Vivarium and the Astronomical Observatory are also part of this museum complex and are within walking distance.
Only a stone's throw away is the Iulian Antonescu Museum Complex, which encompasses history, ethnography and art galleries. The vast list of unique exhibits includes pottery, suits of armour, Daco-Roman furniture, dwellings, weaponry, regalia, national dress, icons, coins and paraphernalia. Overlooking it is the Princely Court Ensemble, built in the time of Stephen the Great for his son and co-ruler, Alexander. The court comprises the ruins of the princely estate and residence, its defence tower, and a Medieval church that is still standing. As the oldest building in Bacau, The Precista Church, with its frescoes and unmistakable club-shaped 'Moldovan' architecture, is the city's symbol and foremost landmark.
Continue your ecclesiastical journey with the Orthodox Cathedral "Ascension of the Lord", the country's third-largest church. It boasts 18 bells, the largest tower cross in the country and wall-to-wall frescoes. Other unmissable cultural sites are the towering and elegant Catholic Cathedral and the neighbouring St. Nicholas Church. The latter has two western towers and is flanked by the ruins of a 16th-century church. To immerse yourself in the local culture completely, head over to the George Bacovia Theatre, which is sure to amuse and bemuse year-round, but even more so during the drama festival known as Bacau Fest.
Bacau is an excellent destination for walkers and hikers. It has its own lake and delta, and is literally minutes from the mountains. Bordering the city is Şerbăneşti Lake, a maze of islands spread over 500 acres. But the greatest perk of your car or van hire in Bacau is that your journey of exploration can continue beyond the city to the Hemeiuş Arboretum, the Buciaş Waterfall and Sphinx, Valea Uzului Lake, the Târgu Ocna salt mine, the mineral springs in Slănic Moldova and the Nemira Reservation.
