Army House, Timisoara

The Army House, also known as the Garrison Command or the New Generalate, is one of the most historically significant buildings in Timișoara’s Liberty Square. Dating back to 1727, it is considered the oldest building in the city that has preserved its original volume. Originally constructed in Baroque style, it was designed as a residence for military governors following the Habsburg conquest of the city in 1716. Among its early residents was Count Claude Florimond de Mercy, who played a central role in rebuilding Timișoara after Ottoman rule. Though damaged during the siege of 1849, it was rebuilt in 1856 and later became an important administrative and military headquarters.

Architecturally, the Army House reflects its Baroque origins with a square shape, a façade once marked by three arches, and a triangular pediment above the entrance. Inside, the ground floor accommodated kitchens, stables, and servant quarters, while the upper levels housed offices, archives, and living spaces. Throughout its history, the building welcomed distinguished figures, including Emperor Franz Joseph during his visit in 1852, and later King Ferdinand and Queen Marie, who planted the oak trees that still stand proudly at its entrance in 1923.

For much of the 20th century, the Army House also served as a cultural landmark. From 1996, it hosted a military history museum, where visitors could explore over 2,000 artifacts, from ancient arms and uniforms to documents and maps reflecting Romania’s past. The museum offered a chronological journey through key moments of the nation’s history, including the medieval period, the reign of Michael the Brave, and the two world wars.

In recent years, the Army House has taken on a new role. In 2019, administration of the building passed to the Ministry of Culture, with plans to transform it into the National Museum of the Anti-Communist Revolution of December 1989. For visitors today, the Army House stands not only as a reminder of centuries of military and political history but also as a future site dedicated to commemorating Romania’s fight for freedom.