Cluj-Napoca Hintz House, Cluj-Napoca

Hintz House is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cluj-Napoca, standing prominently in the city’s central square, Union Square (Piata Unirii). The building dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the oldest surviving structures in the city. Originally owned by a wealthy family, the house later gained prominence as the site of the first pharmacy in Cluj, established in the 1570s. This rich history of healing and knowledge has left its mark, endowing the building with both cultural and historical significance.

Over the centuries, Hintz House has seen multiple renovations and changes in ownership, yet it has managed to retain its significance. In the 18th century, it was acquired by the Hintz family, pharmacists who not only continued its medical tradition but also gave the house its present name. For generations, the family has operated the pharmacy here, and the building has become a symbol of both the profession and the city’s progress in the health sciences.

Today, Hintz House functions as the Pharmaceutical Museum, allowing visitors to explore centuries-old traditions of medicine and pharmacy in Transylvania. Inside, you’ll find historic furniture, collections of rare instruments, old apothecary jars, and documents that illustrate how pharmacies once operated. The carefully preserved exhibits create an atmosphere where the city’s past blends seamlessly with its enduring heritage of science and culture.

For tourists, Hintz House offers not just a glimpse into medical history, but also a chance to stand in one of Cluj-Napoca’s oldest and most storied buildings. Its location in the main square makes it an easy and worthwhile stop for anyone exploring the city, whether for its architectural charm, its museum collections, or its role as a quiet reminder of the knowledge and craftsmanship that have shaped Cluj over the centuries.