Avram Iancu Square, Cluj-Napoca

Avram Iancu Square is a significant and historic plaza located in the heart of Cluj-Napoca. Named after the renowned Transylvanian Romanian lawyer and revolutionary Avram Iancu, the square is a central hub that connects various key areas of the city, including the nearby Unirii Square through Eroilor and "21 Decembrie 1989" avenues, and Mihai Viteazul Square via Cuza Vodă Street. The square is steeped in history and architecture, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Cluj-Napoca.

One of the most striking landmarks in Avram Iancu Square is the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, a monumental Orthodox cathedral that dominates the plaza. This iconic structure, along with the eclectic Palace of Justice designed by Wagner Gyula, forms the architectural backbone of the square. Other important buildings surrounding the plaza include the Lucian Blaga National Theatre and the headquarters of the County Prefecture, each contributing to the square’s status as a central cultural and administrative center in Cluj-Napoca.

The square’s history is deeply intertwined with the old city walls, which were once guarded by three bastions and gates. Originally a marketplace, the area evolved significantly over time. As the marketplace was relocated closer to the railroad—now the site of Mihai Viteazul Square—the old city walls and gates were eventually demolished at the turn of the 20th century. In their place, a small park was created, and the square began to take on its current form with the construction of new buildings, including the National Theater, the Orthodox Cathedral, and several other significant structures in the Art Nouveau style.

Today, Avram Iancu Square stands as a testament to Cluj-Napoca’s historical and architectural evolution. The square is not only a place of great beauty but also a vital part of the city’s cultural fabric. It is home to numerous important institutions, including the Palace of Justice, the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, and the building of the Protestant Theology.