Arad Fortress was built on the left bank of Mures River, at the request of Empress Maria Theresa.

The work lasted 20 years, it was executed by thousands of prisoners and has the shape of a six pointed star.

Arad Fortress was one of the largest military prisons of Austro-Hungarian Empire, revolutionaries Horea, Closca and Crisan were prisoners here.

The most famous prisoner of the fortress was Gavrilo Princip, the assassin of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, following which was triggered WWI.

During the period the fortress was military prison, 4317 detainees died because of mistreatment.

The fortress is a military target so it’s open to visitors only on special occasions. For several years, the municipality is trying to transform Fortress in sightseeing, but without success.

Fortress of Arad is easily accessible, at 10 minute walk distance from the Continental Forum Arad.