Timişoara was a marshy area until the 18th century.

For the economic and social development of the town there was necessary a canal for the drainage of the marshes and for the supply with drinking water, fire wood transportation, construction materials.

The construction of the Bega Canal starts in 1728 under the supervision of the military governor of Banat, count Florimund de Mercy.

In 1732 the first ship floated from Timişoara, on the Bega, Tisa and on the Danube, to Pancevo. The total navigable length was of 116 km.

The Bega Canal was the main transport way for merchandise in Banat until the second half of the 19th century.

It was also important for the passengers transport, regular hauls being provided until 1966.

Today, Bega has a recreational role.

Starting with 2018 Timisoara has public transportation (excepting the winter period) on the Bega Canal through the whole city, from east to west.

One of the main festivals is Bega Boulevard. We celebrate it every year in September.