Elisabeta Park is the green heart of the city. In the 19th century, the city center was dominated by a six-hectare square where weekly and national fairs were held. It was one of the largest squares in Transylvania, surpassing even the central square in Cluj-Napoca. Later, the area was landscaped; the upper avenues were terraced, and rows of chestnut trees were planted. In the 1890s, the square around the Parish Church of St. Joseph was redesigned following the example of English parks; trees and flowers were planted, and promenades were created. In 1899, weeping willows and oak trees were planted in memory of Empress (and Hungarian Queen) Elisabeth (Sisi), who was assassinated in 1898. The park contains several statues and monuments. The renovation of the park, which is now a popular spot for residents and visitors, was completed in 2010.