After I spent some time exploring the fascinating watermills in the village of Rudaria, it was time to hit the road again. My next destination was the city of Baile Herculane, which was about an hour’s drive from Rudaria. I was excited to visit this place because it’s famous for its historic thermal baths and unique charm.
When I arrived in Baile Herculane, I decided to focus my visit on the old town. This area is where most of the city’s iconic and well-known buildings are located. The architecture told stories of the city’s rich past, and every corner seemed to hold a new surprise. This town has a history that stretches back to the Roman times, making it one of the oldest spa towns in Europe.
The Austrian Imperial Baths
The Austrian Imperial Baths, also known as the Neptune Baths, are a fascinating historical site that, sadly, has been abandoned. While the interior of the building is not open to visitors, you can still enjoy its stunning architecture from the outside. Standing before this magnificent structure, it’s easy to imagine how grand it must have been in its prime. In its glory days, this place was a bustling hub that drew many tourists, all eager to experience its beauty and splendor. Although time has taken its toll, the exterior remains a testament to the elegance and charm that once made it a sought-after destination.
Hercules Square
Just a short walk from the Imperial Baths, you’ll find Hercules Square, the heart of the old town in Baile Herculane. Though the square is small, it has a unique charm that makes it worth a visit. On a hot summer day, it’s the perfect spot to pause and enjoy a delicious ice cream from one of the nearby vendors. If you’re looking for a place to rest, there are benches shaded by the tall, historic buildings surrounding the square, offering a cool and relaxing spot to take a break. At the far end of Hercules Square, you’ll come across a small yet fascinating church, adding a touch of history and culture to this quaint area.
Between Hercules Square and the Imperial Baths, you’ll come across the Diana Bath, a historic building with a story to tell. Originally built entirely out of brick in 1810, it was redesigned in 1858 to take on its current appearance. One of the most unique features of this building is the statue of Hercules that proudly stands on its roof.
The Stone Bridge
This stone bridge across the small Cerna River connects the old town with the rest of the city.
Before leaving Baile Herculane, I took some time to capture more photos of this charming and historic city. Nestled in a valley surrounded by steep, dramatic mountains, Baile Herculane is a place of incredible natural beauty and rich history. I wanted to preserve the memories of its unique atmosphere and stunning views. Here are some of the photos I took during my visit:
Where should I go next?
Just 21 km from Baile Herculane lies the small and picturesque city of Orsova, situated on the scenic shores of the Danube River. From Orsova, you can take a memorable drive along the Danube all the way to Moldova Noua. This road offers plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. Along the way, you can admire the impressive Decebalus Rex statue, the largest rock sculpture in Europe, and visit the historic Ladislau Fortress in the village of Coronini.
If you’re looking for more inspiration, you can check out additional photos from this breathtaking road trip here: Road trip next to the Danube River in Clisura Dunării.
Leave a Reply