Pitești is an industrial city in southern Romania, known mostly for its oil refineries and chemical plants. But there’s more to Pitești than smog and pollution. The city centre is a pleasant mix of old and new, with a lively pedestrian area and a good selection of restaurants and bars. The Piata Mica (Small Square) is the heart of the old city, and is surrounded by a mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings. The Piata Mare (Big Square) is a more recent addition, built in the early 20th century in the neoclassical style. There are also a few interesting museums, including the Museum of the Oil Industry and the Art Museum. Pitești is a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area, including the impressive Carpathian Mountains.