Museum of the Revolution (Timișoara)
West Region
The Museum of the Revolution in Timișoara, also known as the Memorialul Revoluției, is a foundation established in 1990 to research, document, and commemorate the December 1989 revolution that began in Timișoara and led to the overthrow of Nicolae Ceaușescu's communist regime. Housed in a historic 18th-century Baroque building in the Cetate district, the museum serves as a cultural and educational center preserving the memory of the revolution's victims and heroes. It features permanent exhibitions, a documentation and research center, and a library with extensive archives including photographs, manifestos, eyewitness testimonies, and newspapers covering the revolution. The foundation organizes symposia, conferences, and exhibitions to deepen public understanding of the revolution and its connections to wider events in Southeast Europe. A notable feature is the Heroes of the Revolution Chapel, inaugurated in 2014, adorned with paintings by artist Casian Murărașu. The museum plays a vital role in educating students and the public about Romania's recent history and the struggle for freedom.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the museum's official website for current opening hours and special events. The best time to visit is around December, during the anniversary of the revolution, when commemorative events and exhibitions are held. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and discounts may be available for students and groups. Advance booking is recommended during peak commemorative periods to ensure entry.
Interesting facts
- •The foundation was awarded the Order of Cultural Merit in the rank of Knight by Romanian President Klaus Iohannis in 2019.
- •The original building housing the museum was a Baroque-style structure from the 18th century and is a recognized historical monument.
- •The foundation manages a large archive including original documents, photographs, and manifestos from the 1989 revolution.
- •The Heroes of the Revolution Chapel was inaugurated in 2014 and features paintings by Casian Murărașu.
- •The foundation organizes pilgrimages and commemorative events to honor the martyrs of the revolution.
History
The foundation was established in April 1990, shortly after the revolution, initially focusing on documenting the Timișoara events and victims.
Over time, its scope expanded nationally to include other key cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca.
The museum is located in a historic Baroque building from the 18th century, which underwent major renovations after being leased by the foundation in 1998.
Due to restitution claims, the museum moved to new premises in the restored Theresia Bastion area in 2011.
The foundation received the Order of Cultural Merit in 2019, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.
Place Guide
Documentation and Research Center
Holds original documents related to the 1989 revolution, including photographs, revolutionary manifestos, lists of victims, and eyewitness testimonies, providing invaluable resources for researchers and visitors.
Library and Press Archive
Features a wide collection of scientific works and newspapers that covered the revolution, including titles like Adevărul, Evenimentul zilei, and Revista 22, offering a comprehensive perspective on media coverage during the period.
Heroes of the Revolution Chapel2014
A chapel inaugurated in 2014 with support from various dioceses, decorated with paintings by artist Casian Murărașu, dedicated to honoring the martyrs of the revolution.
Memorial Museum Permanent Exhibitions
Permanent exhibitions display artifacts, multimedia presentations, and historical narratives about the December 1989 revolution, aiming to educate visitors about the events and their significance.
Contact
Phone: 0786 237 369
