Located in the heart of Romania’s scenic Transylvania region, Sighișoara is a medieval gem that seems frozen in time. The colorful historic buildings, and well-preserved citadel of "Dracula's hometown", offer visitors a unique glimpse into Romania's enchanting past. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its charm lies not just in its stunning architecture, but also in the stories and legends that permeate its streets. Sighisoara's setting of rolling hills and forests adds to its allure and provides wonderful opportunities for nature lovers. One of my favorite towns in Romania, Sighisoara will not fail to impress. It really needs to be on the bucket list of every traveler. In this article I will explore the fascinating history of Sighișoara, how to get there, what you should see, as well as some day trip ideas. It is a complete guide for when you visit this incredible destination.
A Little History
Sighisoara's history dates back to the Roman times when the Dacians built a fortification called Sandava in the 1st century. A new fortification was built in the 12th century by Saxon settlers (German craftsmen and merchants from the Rhine region). They were invited by the Hungarian kings who ruled Transylvania at the time to help develop the land and strengthen defenses. Sighișoara was originally known as Schäßburg. It became a vital part of a network of fortified towns built to defend the region against invasions.
Throughout the Middle Ages, Sighișoara thrived as a trade center, thanks to its advantageous position on the Tarnava Mare River. It linked the Ottoman Empire to central Europe. It also became a center for art and culture. The fortifications that remain today were built during this period to protect against frequent Ottoman incursions. At its height, the town boasted 14 towers, each maintained by a craft guild. Nine of these towers still stand, and they remain a defining feature of the town's skyline.
After the decline of the Ottoman threat and changes in trade routes, Sighișoara’s importance diminished, which ironically helped preserve its architecture and old-world charm. Its historic significance and beautiful condition were recognized internationally when it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
How to get there
Sighișoara is conveniently located in central Romania, making it relatively easy to reach from major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov and Sibiu. The closest airport is about an hour away in Targu Mures, but if you are arriving from North America, Bucharest is your best bet. The airport in Bucharest is about a 4 hour drive from Sighisoara.
By Train:
Romania’s national train system, CFR (Căile Ferate Române), provides regular services to Sighișoara. Trains run frequently from Bucharest, with a journey time of around 5 hours. From Cluj-Napoca, the trip takes about 4 hours, while from Sibiu, it is roughly 2.5 hours. The train station in Sighișoara is about a 15 minute walk from the historic center.
By Car:
Sighișoara is well-connected by road and can be reached via the E60, the European route that runs across central Romania. The drive from Bucharest takes about 4.5 hours, from Cluj-Napoca around 3 hours, and from Sibiu about 1.5 hours. Renting a car gives you flexibility and allows for scenic stops along the way. Driving in Romania is easy. The roads are well maintained. This is my preferred way of exploring this area as you will get to reach more areas that may be more difficult to reach with public transportation.
By Bus:
Buses and mini busses also operate between Sighișoara and nearby cities. The bus station is close to the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers on a budget. If you are deciding between a bus or the train, I would probably opt for the train. They are clean, modern and comfortable. They can also be faster than busses, but not always. Both are very affordable. Make sure to check the schedules and prices of both trains and busses before deciding which is right for you.
What to See in Sighișoara Romania
Sighișoara's main draw is its medieval citadel, a beautifully preserved fortress perched atop a hill. Within the citadel's defensive wall, you’ll find a variety of attractions, from historical landmarks to charming local shops and restaurants, as well as beautiful churches and fascinating museums. Let's take a look at some of the sites Sighisoara has to offer.
The Clock Tower (Turnul cu Ceas)
The most iconic structure in Sighișoara and the symbol of the city is the Clock Tower, also known as council tower. Standing at 64 meters tall (200 feet), it was originally built in the 14th century serving as the main entrance to the citadel and the seat of city council. After a fire in the 17th century, the roof of the tower was rebuilt in the Baroque style. In 1894 shimmering colored tiles were added. Today, the clock tower houses a history museum that provides insights into the area's fascinating history from the bronze age to modern times. Founded in 1899, this museum is interesting in part because of its vertical layout of seven rooms across six floors. One particularly interesting exhibit is the pharmacy, which displays medical equipment from the 1st century to the 20th century.
Another favorite is the 5th floor where you can see the clock mechanism. While the first clock mechanism dates to 1648, the current one was installed in 1906. The clock figurines are made of painted wood and they represent the days of the week, each with its own symbolism such as justice, peace, day, and night. Watching the clock’s small figurines change positions on the hour is a charming experience. The top of the tower offers beautiful panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
The Towers of the Citadel
The towers of Sighișoara, nine of which remain out of the original 14, were once part of the town’s defensive wall. Each was maintained by a different craft guild, and many still bear the names of those who built and manned them. The guilds were active until 1875. The towers are all unique in size and design. They were used to house ammunition as well as food supplies and each had firing windows for cannons and arrows.
Every tower is between 2 and 4 stories (besides the 6 floor clock tower). Today they house museums, workshops and galleries. One is even a residence. They stand as a reminder of the interconnected community life within the citadel, where each guild not only practiced its trade, but also contributed to the town’s security and self-sufficiency. Try to walk around the citadel and find each of the towers.
Here is a look at the different towers.
Tailor's tower (Turnul Croitorilor)
Built in the 15th century, the Tailors' tower was built by the richest guild in town. It was originally as tall as the clock tower, but the upper part was destroyed in 1676 when the gunpowder that was stored here exploded, starting a fire that damaged the tower as well as other buildings in town. The tailor's tower has served as a prison for part of its history. It is notable for its large size and double gates. Climb to the top for excellent views. It is located on the western side of the citadel.
Butchers’ Tower (Turnul Măcelarilor)
Also on the west side of the citadel, the Butchers' tower was built in the 15th century and used to store meat during the Middle Ages. It was rebuilt in the 16th century with a hexagonal plan to increase its field of view. It has an import location as it is near a sensitive section of the fortress wall.
Blacksmiths’ Tower (Turnul Fierarilor)
Also called the Ironsmiths' tower, this tower stands just around the corner from the clock tower on the eastern side of the citadel. In front of it lies the monastery church. The main function of this tower was to defend the church. The Blacksmiths’ Tower is set slightly back from the citadel walls, which allowed for additional fortification. The tower was rebuilt after a lightning strike in the 16th century. In the 19th century it was used as a fire-station. Today it houses an art gallery.
Ropemakers’ Tower (Turnul Frânghierilor)
The Ropemakers' tower is one of the oldest towers in Sighisoara, being built in the 13th century. Though not as prominently featured as some of Sighisoara's other towers, it is an important part of the citadel's historical defense system. Located on the southern side of the fortress near the church on the hill, this tower was under the care of the ropemakers’ guild. The guild was essential for producing the ropes used not only in everyday life, but also for the town’s defensive mechanisms, including the drawbridges and gates. It is the only tower that is a residence as it is now the home of the caretaker of the Saxon cemetery.
Cobblers' Tower (Turnul Cizmarilor)
Located on the northern side of the citadel, the Cobblers' Tower (Shoemakers' or Bootmakers' tower) was originally built in the 16th century but was completely rebuilt in 1650. This Baroque tower features a hexagonal base and sides of different lengths. Today it is an observational tower with stairs on the outside, but you can't go in because it houses a radio station.
Furriers' Tower (Turnul Cojocarilor)
This smaller, lesser-known tower was constructed in the 15th century and maintained by the furriers’ guild. In case you are wondering what a furrier is, it is a person that makes clothing out of fur. The tower has a simpler design compared to some of the other towers, but its strategic location on the citadel walls was crucial for protection. Though not open to the public, it adds to the historical ambiance of the old town. It is located on the west side of the citadel near the Butchers' tower.
Around back there is a small art studio in the basement. You can see the entrance at the base of the tower under the stairs in the above picture.
One of our favorite experiences in Sighisoara was finding this art gallery in the Furriers' tower. The artist was hard at work and eager to show his art, and tell us a little of the history of the tower. We ended up buying a piece of art from him for our daughter.
Tanners' Tower (Turnul Tabacarilor)
Situated on the eastern side of the citadel, the Tanners’ Tower is the smallest of the towers and dates back to the 13th or 14th century, making it one of the oldest as well. It was made to guard the courtyard of the clock tower.
Tinsmiths' Tower (Turnul Cositorilor)
The tinsmiths' tower has one of the most interesting designs. The base is a square but as you move up it turns into a Pentagon, then and octagon and then finally a hexagon for the roof. It still bears some scars from a siege in 1704. Situated on the southeastern side of the citadel, this tower was built in the 17th century.
Vlad Dracul’s House
Located just a few steps from the Clock Tower, this ocher-colored house is where Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Dracula or Vlad Tepes), was born in 1431. He is one of the most famous historical figures from Romania and the man who inspired the Dracula legend written by Bram Stocker. He lived here for only a few years before moving away from Sighisoara. His father, Vlad Dracul, lived in the town while being part of the Order of the Dragon, a chivalric order established to defend Christianity in Eastern Europe. He later became ruler of Wallachia. At the age of 11, Vlad the Impaler, along with his brother, was held hostage by the Ottoman Empire to ensure loyalty from his father. After much turmoil, fighting and intrigue, Vlad the Impaler followed in his father's footsteps and became ruler of Wallachia. The name "Impaler" was given to him because of his storied cruelty and frequent use of impalement as punishment for his enemies.
Today, his birthplace is a major attraction, now a restaurant on the ground floor and a museum on the first floor. The museum showcases various medieval artifacts and, of course, Dracula-themed memorabilia. The restaurant serves traditional Romanian dishes in a historical ambiance.
The Covered Staircase (Scara Școlarilor)
This long, dark wooden staircase is known as the Student's staircase or Scholar's staircase. The name comes from the fact that it was built to provide students and church-goers with safe passage to the school on the Hill and the Church on the Hill during winter. It was meant to connect upper town with lower town. Built in 1642, there were originally 300 steps. Today 176 steps remain and it is one of Sighișoara’s most charming attractions. There are usually musicians playing near the top of the staircase adding to the ambiance. Legend has it that if you kiss your lover and say their name on each step, you will have everlasting love.
The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal)
This Gothic-style church is perched at the highest point of the citadel and can be reached by climbing the Covered Staircase. Because of its large size, and its location on the top of the hill, this church can be seen from all over. The Church on the Hill is known for its medieval frescoes, its grand altar, and its peaceful cemetery that stretches down the hill, offering a quiet respite from the busier parts of town. It was originally a Catholic church, but became a church for the Saxons after they switched from Catholicism to Lutheranism. Built in 1345, the church has gone through multiple transitions and renovations. It sustained damage during two significant events. The first was during the Hungarian siege of 1704 when the roof was burned. The second was the result of an earthquake in 1838 when the choir vaults collapsed.
One interesting feature of the church is an altar built for the Grandmother of Jesus, who is believed to have been named Anne. Many of the frescoes were actually hidden for years as they were covered by plaster and whitewash. During renovations, fragments of the original 15th century frescos were rediscovered. Originally the entire interior of the church would have been covered in these remarkable paintings. The carved wooden chests found in the church belonged to families in town. They were used as storage when the town was under attack and families would seek refuge in the church. The carved headstones were originally placed on the floor but have since been moved to preserve them. They are the headstones of the most influential people in town such as mayors, politicians, and friars. There are also 60 sarcophagi near the entrance. This church possesses the only ancient crypt in Transylvania. It has been looted a number of times by thieves looking for treasure buried with the deceased.
The Saxon Cemetery
Adjacent to the Church on the Hill is the Saxon Cemetery, officially called the Cemetery of the Parish of the Evangelical Church. The cemetery covers the western slope of the hill occupied by the citadel. While the dead were initially buried right around the church, as demand grew and space was limited, this cemetery, just outside the gate was established. This is a quiet spot where you can see the crooked gravestones of the Saxon settlers who shaped much of the town’s early history.
The gravestones are ornately carved, often with inscriptions in German, a reminder of the town’s strong Saxon roots. Adding a little interest, the headstones also often contain the deceased occupation such as stone masons, blacksmiths, tailors, builders or weavers. You may even find one that says "Chief of the Guild". Some gravestones are difficult to read being weathered by rain and wind or covered in moss, but this only adds to the atmosphere. The winding paths and moss covered graves make this cemetery a beautiful place to explore. Further down the hill there is also a Catholic cemetery, an Orthodox cemetery and a monument for those who fought and died in WWI.
Sighișoara Citadel Square (Piața Cetății)
The heart of the Sighisoara citadel is the Citadel Square, a picturesque open space surrounded by colorful medieval houses. During the Middle Ages markets, court hearings, fairs and even witch trials were held here. While most executions took place outside of the city, some would have been held in this square. The "Pillar of Infamy" was a stone pillar with metal rings and a tribune where the trials were held. The Stag house is a notable house on the square named because of its stag head fixed to the corner of the house. It is a 17th century home that has been beautifully preserved. It is now a hotel, cultural center and conference hall. Many of the buildings on the square now serve as cafes, shops, restaurants, and hotels, offering a perfect place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Always full of life, it is a popular spot to gather and socialize and is the center of the community in town.
The Venetian House
Just around the corner from Citadel Square and across from the Vlad Dracul house is the Venetian house. Named this because of its distinctly Venetian style, the house has a sweet history. Legend has it that the mayor of Sighisoara fell in love with a Venetian woman. When she moved to Sighisoara she was homesick for Venice so the mayor remodeled the house to remind her of her home in Venice. Also known as the Mann house, it dates back to the 16th century. It now houses offices and cannot be visited inside.
Umbrella street
Umbrella street is the perfect place for a photo op. This charming street is covered by umbrellas, producing a fun and vibrant atmosphere. They also provide lovely shade for the restaurant guests who sit below them. The colors of the umbrellas change throughout the year. Sometimes they are all one color, and sometimes they are a rainbow of colors. The official name of the street is Octavian Goga street and it is lined with cafes and restaurants.
Church of Dominican monastery
The Monastery church was first mentioned in 1298 as part of a larger Monastery settlement. In 1556 this late-gothic church became the main Saxon church. In 1888 the complex was demolished and the town hall was built in its place. Only the church survived. It has been renovated multiple times throughout the years, with the last renovation taking place in 1929. Inside there is a 15th century bronze font, Oriental carpets and a Baroque organ.
Leper's Church
The Leper's church is a 15th or 16th century Gothic church. It was part of a larger complex that included a school, teacher's residence and an asylum or hospital for lepers. It is located in Lower town along the banks of the river. The Lepers were not allowed to enter the church, but an outer pulpit was built to preach to them. This outside pulpit was used until the 17th century. After the hospital was demolished in the late 19th century, the church became Lutheran and is now a Greek-Catholic church.
Orthodox Cathedral
The Orthodox Cathedral, also called the Holy Trinity church, was built in the Byzantine style and is an example of the beautiful churches found throughout Romania. Built in the 1930s, it is the center for the city's Romanian Orthodox community. While not technically a cathedral, it is often referred to as one. The proposal to build the church in the center of town was denied and so it is located in Lower town, on the banks of the Tarnava river.
It is very colorful inside with beautiful frescos and an impressive dome.
Town Hall
Built in the 19th century, the Town Hall, which is also called Târnava Mare County Palace, stands as a beautiful example of Transylvanian Neo-Renaissance architecture. Inside, the upper floor contains a Baroque hall that hosts concerts and conferences. It also contains offices for local administration. The building’s facade is charmingly detailed, with ornate windows and stone carvings, making it a favorite spot for photos.
Make sure you walk around to the back as it is equally as gorgeous and a great place to look over the buildings below.
Cositorarului Casa
One of our favorite spots for an afternoon rest was at Cositorarului Casa. While it has accommodations, we just like it for its cute cafe full of character and charm. Grab a seat on the tiny terrace attached to the building or across the small cobbled street and enjoy some dessert or a coffee.
Festivals and Events
Sighișoara hosts several annual events that bring its medieval heritage to life. The Sighișoara Medieval Festival, held every July, is perhaps the most popular. During this event, the citadel is transformed into a medieval fairground, with knights, minstrels, and craftsmen filling the streets. It’s an immersive experience that allows visitors to step back in time and participate in jousting tournaments, theatrical performances, and traditional crafts.
The ProEtnica Festival is another key event, celebrating the diverse ethnic heritage of the region. There are performances from Romanians, Saxons, Hungarians, and Roma communities, showcasing their traditional music, dance, and food. It is held at the end of August of beginning of Septrmeber.
When to go
Sighișoara is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is in late spring to early fall (May to September) when the weather is warm. Summer can get busy, so if you want to avoid crowds, I would suggest May, June or September. Romania in October offers a lovely backdrop of fall colors, while winter brings a peaceful, snow-covered charm to the area. If you go in the winter, some sites and restaurants may be closed or have reduced hours.
How to get around
Sighișoara is best explored on foot, as the historic center is compact, and many of the streets are pedestrian-only. Wear comfortable shoes, as many streets are cobblestone and steep.
Where to stay
While you won't find any huge 5 star hotels in Sighisoara, you will find a variety of charming options from boutique hotels to air bnbs The prices in Sighisoara are very reasonable. The most expensive hotel is only around $150.00 per night, but it is very easy to find good accommodations for around $60 - $70.
What to eat
When visiting Romania, the food is an absolute highlight, with rich, hearty flavors and a blend of cultural influences from neighboring regions. Traditional Romanian cuisine features a variety of comforting, flavorful dishes often made from locally sourced ingredients. One of the most iconic dishes is sarmale, cabbage rolls filled with spiced pork or beef, rice, and herbs, slow-cooked in a savory tomato broth and typically served with a dollop of sour cream. Another classic is mămăligă, a polenta-like dish made from cornmeal and often served with cheese, sour cream, and sometimes bacon or sausages, making it a comforting and versatile staple.
For those looking to sample some Romanian soups, ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup) is a popular choice with a tangy flavor from vinegar and sour cream, often brightened by a bit of garlic and served hot. Another beloved soup is ciorbă de fasole, a bean soup sometimes served in a bread bowl, which makes for a filling and hearty option. Desserts are also a treat, with papanasi as a favorite—fried or boiled doughnuts filled with fresh cow’s cheese and topped with sour cream and fruit preserves. While I don't think langos are originally Romanian (I think they are Hungarian), we did have some of our favourite langos here. Langos are fried dough typically topped with garlic, sour cream and grated cheese.
Day trips from Sighisoara, Romania
Transylvania is full of amazing sites to explore. I am just going to cover a few that are within an hour of Sighisoara. Getting to all of these sites will be easiest with a car. You may be able to find busses but it will be more complicated. Another option is to go on organized tours.
I just want to talk a little about the fortified churches since many of these day trips are to towns with fortified churches. The fortified churches of Transylvania are some of the most unique and well-preserved architectural treasures in Europe, with origins dating back to the 12th century. Built by the region’s Saxon settlers, these churches served both as places of worship and as defensive strongholds against Ottoman and Tatar invasions. Scattered across Transylvania, there are over 150 of these fortified churches still standing, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each church is distinct in design, often surrounded by thick defensive walls, multiple towers, and even bastions where villagers would take refuge during attacks.
Biertan
A quick 30 minutes west of Sighisoara, in the lush Transylvanian countryside, Biertan, is a picturesque village that offers a perfect mix of medieval charm and cultural depth. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its iconic fortified church, which dates back to the 15th century. The church, surrounded by three walls and robust towers, was once a significant religious and political hub for the region’s Saxon community. The village has retained its historical character, making it an ideal destination for those interested in both history and natural beauty.
The Fortified Church of Biertan is one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in Transylvania, and its interior is just as captivating as its imposing structure. Highlights include an intricately carved wooden altar, a unique door lock system from the 16th century, and beautiful Renaissance details. In addition to exploring the church, visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views from the fortress walls, overlooking the village and surrounding vineyards and forests. Biertan is more than a historical site; it’s a place where visitors can experience a slower pace of life, enjoy local Romanian and Saxon cuisine, and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Transylvanian landscape. It's an enchanting village that offers a quiet yet profound glimpse into Romania’s culture and history .
Medias
Forty five minutes west of Sighisoara, Medias is a charming medieval town in the heart of Transylvania, often celebrated for its well-preserved architecture. As one of the oldest towns in Romania, Medias boasts a unique blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles that make a stroll through its streets feel absolutely delightful. The Old Town is particularly captivating, with colorful facades, narrow streets, and cobbled paths leading to historic landmarks. The central square, Piata Regele Ferdinand I, is a great starting point, surrounded by beautiful buildings that reflect the Saxon influence in the region and create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
The highlight of any visit to Medias is the stunning St. Margaret’s Church, a 14th-century Gothic masterpiece and one of the finest examples of fortified churches in Transylvania. The church’s slanted clock tower, known locally as the Trumpeter’s Tower, is an iconic feature that offers visitors panoramic views of the town and its scenic surroundings. Inside, the church houses an impressive collection of medieval frescoes, as well as an intricately carved pulpit and altar. Medias is also famous for its artisan wines, with vineyards nearby that have been producing wine since Roman times. Exploring Medias provides a beautiful glimpse into Romania’s past, and its quiet streets and friendly locals make it an inviting destination for travelers looking to experience the heart of Transylvania.
Viscri
Viscri is a small, picturesque village that transports visitors to the heart of Transylvania's rustic charm. The village itself is a rare find, with traditional Saxon houses painted in soft pastel colors, giving it an old-world atmosphere that has been carefully maintained. Walking through Viscri, visitors will see locals going about daily life in a way that hasn’t changed much for centuries, making it a truly immersive cultural experience.
Driving through Viscri and its surrounding areas you may see shepherds sleeping in the field with their sheep, families driving in horse-drawn wagons, farmers tilling the fields with a plow pulled by horses and Roma walking on the side of the road in their colorful, traditional clothing. The village is also a center for traditional craftsmanship, with workshops where artisans produce handwoven textiles, pottery, and blacksmithing.
Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, Viscri is best known for its beautifully preserved fortified church, one of the oldest in the region, dating back to the 12th century. This church is the highlight of the village, with thick walls, battlements, and towers that tell stories of its defensive past. Inside, you’ll find original wooden beams, medieval frescoes, and a small museum filled with artifacts from the village's history. Climbing to the top of the church tower offers a stunning view of Viscri's pastoral landscape, dotted with rolling hills, forests, and fields. Visiting Viscri truly feels like stepping back in time, offering a peaceful escape from modern life and an authentic glimpse into Romania’s culture. You will find Viscri about 45 minutes Southeast of Sighisoara.
Malancrov
Mălâncrav, Romania, is a tranquil village located about 30 minutes southwest of Sighisoara in the idyllic landscapes of Transylvania. Known for its traditional Saxon character, Mălâncrav offers a glimpse into Romania’s medieval past with its peaceful atmosphere and preserved architecture. The village’s star attraction is the Mălâncrav Fortified Church, a rare gem dating back to the 14th century, featuring some of the most well-preserved Gothic frescoes in Transylvania. These frescoes cover the interior walls with vivid biblical scenes and motifs, allowing visitors to step back in time and connect with centuries-old artistry.
Exploring Mălâncrav feels like a journey into a simpler world, with its quiet streets, colorful Saxon houses, and picturesque surroundings. The Apafi Manor, a restored 15th-century manor house, is another highlight, showcasing the legacy of the noble Apafi family who once ruled over the area. The manor in a guesthouse which offers a small museum and a peaceful orchard, where guests can relax and soak in the surrounding natural beauty. Mălâncrav is also known for its artisanal apple orchards and apple juice production, which visitors can sample and buy from local producers. Visiting Mălâncrav is a wonderful way to experience authentic village life, Saxon heritage, and the natural beauty of rural Romania.
Rupea Citadel
Rupea Citadel, located on a dramatic hilltop in Brașov County, is one of the oldest and most striking fortresses in Transylvania. Dating back to at least the 14th century, though some records trace its roots even earlier to Dacian times, this citadel served as both a defensive stronghold and a refuge for the local population during invasions. Its strategic location on a basalt rock hill made it an ideal vantage point, with sweeping views over the surrounding valleys and hills, allowing early detection of any approaching threats. Over the centuries, the citadel was expanded multiple times, with walls and bastions added to create the multi-layered structure that visitors see today. These fortifications reflect a mixture of architectural styles and defensive strategies, adapted over the ages as Rupea transitioned from medieval fort to important historical site.
Today, Rupea Citadel is beautifully restored, with its winding pathways, fortified towers, and walls offering a tangible link to Romania’s layered history. Visitors can walk through the different sections of the fortress, including the lower, middle, and upper courtyards, each with its own unique charm and historical significance. The citadel houses small exhibits showcasing artifacts and information on the life of its past inhabitants, providing a glimpse into the lives of soldiers, nobles, and commoners who found refuge within its walls. The panorama views from the highest point is a highlight, offering an inspiring view of the Transylvanian countryside.
Fagaras Citadel
Făgăraș Citadel, located in the town of Făgăraș in central Romania, is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval fortresses in Eastern Europe. It takes just over an hour to get there from Sighisoara. Built in the 14th century and expanded in the 17th century, the citadel played a crucial role in defending Transylvania against various invasions. Surrounded by a wide moat that reflects its impressive walls and red-tiled roofs, Făgăraș is unique among Romanian fortresses for its imposing size, extensive fortifications, and blend of medieval and Renaissance architectural elements. The three foot thick walls and 5 watch towers helped to protect the fortress. Once a residence for Transylvanian royalty, including Michael the Brave’s wife, Lady Stanca, the citadel also served as a significant military base, reflecting its versatile and strategic importance over the centuries.
In 1950 the citadel was turned into a prison for political detainees. It was used for this purpose for over a decade, with thousands of detainees being housed here, some subjected to torture. Over 150 prisoners ended up dying during their time in Fagaras because of poor conditions which included little food, no medical care, exposure, and poor sanitation.
Today, Făgăraș Citadel houses a museum and library where visitors can explore the fortress's history and admire a collection of artifacts, medieval weaponry, and period furniture that bring its storied past to life. Highlights include the throne room, dungeons, and ornate chambers that showcase the citadel’s dual roles as a royal residence and stronghold. The beautifully restored courtyard and grand halls give visitors a sense of the grandeur and power that defined the citadel at its height. Visitors can stroll along the fortress walls for grand views of the surrounding mountains and town, while the museum provides insights into Transylvanian history, medieval life, and the citadel’s important role in the region’s political history. Make sure you also visit the nearby Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. While it is more impressive on the outside than the inside, it is still worth a stop.
Sighișoara is a true gem of Transylvania, a place where history and legend intermingle to create a unique travel experience. Wander the cobblestone streets, climb to the top of the clock tower, admire its beautiful churches and enjoy some delicious food. Whether you’re drawn by its connection to Dracula, its well-preserved medieval architecture, or the scenic beauty of its surroundings, this small town will leave a lasting impression.
Ready to travel to Romania? Contact me at stefanie@eurotravelsbydesign.com and I will custom create your perfect itinerary.
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