Romania travel: Fortified churches to visit in Transylvania
The Romanian region of Transylvania is known around the world for its stories about vampires and ghosts. And, of course, the famous Bran Castle, which many know as the Castle of Dracula. But Transylvania is much more than that, being also…
Irina Marica · Journalist
· Updated · 4 min read
The Romanian region of Transylvania is known around the world for its stories about vampires and ghosts. And, of course, the famous Bran Castle, which many know as the Castle of Dracula. But Transylvania is much more than that, being also home to many well preserved, unique fortified churches with fascinating stories to tell. We have put together some suggestions in the list below.
The fortified church of Biertan
Biertan, in Sibiu county, is one of the most visited Saxon villages in Romania. In fact, it is one of the seven Transylvania villages with fortified churches that have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. And it’s not only its rural charm that attracts visitors, but also its old (and sometimes surprising) stories. For example, the village had its own remedy for divorce, which apparently was quite effective: only one couple divorced in 300 years.
And its fortified church, which looks more like a medieval castle from a fairytale, still dominates the landscape and the locals’ life. It was built by the Saxon community in Transylvania, between 1486 and 1524, on the site of an earlier Romanesque church. It features three rows of exterior fortifications linked by gate towers. It was built in the late Gothic style, and its altar is one of the most imposing in Transylvania.
The fortified church of Viscri
Located in Brasov county (about an hour drive from Biertan), Viscri is probably the most famous village in the even more famous region of Transylvania. It has become a tourist hotspot after Prince Charles of Wales decided to buy an old house here, boosting its popularity.
But the Prince’s house is not the only must-see attraction of the village. The 13th-century fortified Lutheran Church, also included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, is an impressive example of Transylvanian defensive architecture. Make sure not to miss the small museum and the view from the tower during your visit.
