Stephen's Tower, Medieval tower in Baia Mare, Romania.
Stephen's Tower is a medieval tower in Baia Mare, Romania, featuring neo-Gothic elements and a copper-covered roof installed during 2007 renovations. The structure rises approximately 40 meters above Citadel Square with intricate stonework visible across its facade.
The tower was built between 1347 and 1376 as a bell tower for Saint Stephen's church. The structure underwent multiple restorations after lightning fires in 1647 and 1769, which altered its original appearance.
The tower is a central symbol of Baia Mare, appearing on both historical and modern versions of the city's official coat of arms. It has shaped the city's identity for centuries and remains a key landmark that locals use to navigate and understand their surroundings.
Visitors can climb through the interior staircase to reach the observation deck and enjoy views across the city. Sturdy footwear is recommended since the staircase is narrow with many steps to ascend.
Four mechanical clocks from Presov were installed in 1628 on each face of the tower, marking its transition from a church bell tower to a city monument. These timepieces represent a rare example of medieval clockwork still functioning within the structure.
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