Introduction
Welcome to our guide on the top things to see when traveling to Brașov, Romania! This charming medieval city is located in the Carpathian Mountains and is known for its well-preserved Old Town, beautiful architecture, and rich culture. From historical landmarks to natural attractions, Brașov has something to offer for every type of traveler.
In this blog post, we will highlight the must-see places in Brașov, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help plan your trip – a list we’ve put together after enjoying a slow morning exploring the city.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, Brașov is a destination that will leave a lasting impression. So, pack your bags and join us as we discover the best of what Brașov has to offer!
Aerial view of the Town Square of Brasov, Romania
Short History of Brasov
Brașov, Romania is a city located in the Transylvania region of the country. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of Dacian and Roman settlements.
In the Middle Ages, German colonists known as the Transylvanian Saxons established a settlement there, which became known as Kronstadt. The city was an important trade center and was fortified with walls and towers.
During the Ottoman Empire’s expansion into Europe, the city was occupied for a time but eventually regained autonomy under the Habsburg Empire.
In the 19th century, the city developed as an industrial center and grew in population.
Today, Brașov is a major tourist destination known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and scenic setting in the Carpathian Mountains.
8 Places to Visit in Brasov
Aerial view of the Town Square of Brasov, Romania
1. Town Square
The town square in Brașov, Romania, also known as the Council Square or Piața Sfatului, is a historic and cultural center of the city. It is located in the heart of the old town and is surrounded by well-preserved medieval buildings, including the Black Church and the Council House. The square has been the site of important events throughout history, including medieval fairs and markets, and is still a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.
One of the main features of the square is the Black Tower, which dates back to the 14th century and is one of the remaining parts of the medieval fortifications of the city. The square is also home to the Council House, a Gothic-style building that now houses the Museum of History.
In addition to its historical significance, the square is also a popular spot for shopping and dining, with many local shops and restaurants located around its perimeter. It also serves as a venue for events such as concerts and festivals. Overall, the town square in Brașov is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city, offering a glimpse into its rich history and culture.
Black Church (St. Mary’s Church), Brasov
2. Black Church
The Black Church, also known as the St. Mary’s Church, is a Gothic-style church located in Brașov, Romania. It is considered one of the most important Gothic monuments in the country and is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
The church was built in the 14th century by the German-speaking community of Brașov, also known as the Transylvanian Saxons. The church was originally called the St. Mary’s Church, but after a fire in 1689, the walls were blackened by the smoke and soot, thus the name “Black Church” was given.
The Black Church is known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings. The exterior features flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and a large rose window. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, a large organ, and a collection of medieval paintings and frescoes. The church also houses a collection of oriental carpets, one of the largest in Eastern Europe, which were brought back as war booty by the Austrian troops after the siege of Constantinople in 1453.
The Black Church is still an active place of worship and also serves as a cultural and historical center, hosting concerts and exhibitions. Visitors can take guided tours of the church to learn more about its history and architecture.
Catherine’s Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei), Brasov
3. Catherine’s Gate
Catherine’s Gate, also known as Poarta Ecaterinei, is a medieval gate located in Brașov, Romania. It is one of the few surviving gates of the original fortifications of the city. The gate was built in the 14th century and it is an important historical and cultural landmark of the city.
The gate is named after the wife of the Mayor who ordered its construction in the 15th century. The gate is adorned with two defensive towers, known as turrets, which are an impressive feature of the gate’s architecture. The turrets are cylindrical in shape and feature crenellations and arrow slits. They have served as a place of observation and defense during the medieval times.
Catherine’s Gate and its turrets are located on the northern side of the city, and it is the only gate that has remained intact from the original fortifications of Brașov. The gate is now open to the public and visitors can climb the turrets for a panoramic view of the city. The gate and its turrets are a great example of medieval fortifications architecture and are an important part of the city’s history.
Nowadays, the gate is an important part of the city’s rich cultural heritage and it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Brașov. The gate and its turrets are a must-see for anyone interested in the history and architecture of the city.
Beth Israel Synagogue, Brasov
4. Jewish Synagogue (Beth Israel Synagogue)
The Beth Israel Synagogue in Brașov, Romania, is a place of worship for the Jewish community of the city. The synagogue is located in 29 Poarta Șchei Street in the center of the town and is one of the few remaining synagogues in Transylvania.
The synagogue is an impressive building with a mix of Moorish and Neo-gothic architectural elements. The building complex features a community seat, a kosher restaurant, and a holocaust memorial listing the names of the presidents of the Jewish community and the Jews from Brasov who died during World War I.
The Jewish community in Brașov has a long history dating back to the medieval times, although it has gone through periods of decline and growth. The Jewish population in Brașov was severely affected by the Holocaust, and the community is much smaller today. However, the synagogue is still an active place of worship and serves as a cultural and historical center for the Jewish community in Brașov. Visitors can take guided tours of the synagogue to learn more about the Jewish history and culture in Brașov.
Rope Street, Brasov
5. Rope Street
The Rope Street, or “Strada Sforii” in Romanian, is a narrow cobblestone street located in the old town of Brașov, Romania. It is one of the narrowest streets in Europe, measuring only 1.02 meters at its narrowest point.
The street was originally built in the 16th century as a means of escape for the residents of the upper town in case of fire or invasion. The street is so narrow that only one person can pass through at a time, and it was used by firefighters to access the upper town quickly. The street is also an architectural wonder, with houses on both sides of the street leaning towards each other, almost touching at the top.
Today, the Rope Street is a popular tourist attraction and a must-see for visitors to Brașov. The street is lined with colorful houses and offers a unique glimpse into the city’s past. Visitors can walk through the street and experience its narrowness, and also take a glimpse at the old architecture of the houses and the cobblestone pavement.
The Rope Street is also surrounded by many other historical and cultural landmarks such as the Black Church, the Council Square, and the Catherine’s Gate, making it an interesting place to discover while visiting Brașov.
Brasov Hollywood Sign
6. Brasov Hollywood Sign
Brasov, Romania has a “Hollywood” sign on a hill overlooking the city, which is a replica of the famous Hollywood sign in California, USA. The sign was built in 2000, as a tourist attraction and a tribute to the city’s film industry. The sign is situated on Mt. Tampa and it can be seen from most parts of the city.
The sign is a replica of the original Hollywood sign, with the letters being made of metal and painted white. The letters are 14 meters high and the total length of the sign is 32 meters. The sign is illuminated at night making it visible from the city at night as well.
The Hollywood sign in Brașov is a popular tourist attraction and it is a must-see for visitors to the city. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of Mt. Tampa to get a panoramic view of the city and to take a picture with the Hollywood sign in the background. Visitors can also hike to the top of the mountain for a more adventurous experience.
The Hollywood sign in Brașov is a unique attraction that adds to the city’s vibrant culture and history. It is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a symbol of the city’s pride and aspirations towards the movie industry.
Weaver’s Bastion, Brasov
7. Weaver’s Bastion
The Weaver’s Bastion, or “Turnul Tesatorilor” in Romanian, is a historical fortification located in the old town of Brașov, Romania. The bastion is a part of the city’s medieval fortifications and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of medieval military architecture in Romania.
The bastion was built in the 14th century as a defensive structure to protect the city from invaders. It was also used as a watchtower to keep watch over the city and the surrounding area. The bastion is located on the eastern side of the city and it is one of the most imposing and well-preserved of the seven bastions that were built to defend the city.
The Weaver’s Bastion is a square-shaped building made of stone and brick, with battlements and loopholes for archers. The bastion was originally connected to the city’s wall, but it is now a standalone structure. Visitors can climb the bastion’s stairs to the top for a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
The bastion is now a museum and cultural center, exhibiting medieval artifacts and providing information about the history and culture of Brașov. Visitors can also attend cultural events and concerts that are held in the bastion’s courtyard during the summer months.
Christmas Market in the Town Square of Brasov, Romania
8. Christmas Markets
Brasov, Romania is known for its beautiful Christmas markets, which are held annually in the city’s main square, Council Square (Piata Sfatului). The markets typically open in the first week of December and run until the end of the year. The square is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments, creating a festive and warm atmosphere.
The markets feature a variety of vendors selling traditional Christmas decorations, handcrafted gifts, and traditional Romanian foods and drinks. Visitors can find a wide range of Christmas gifts, including handmade ornaments, candles, pottery, and textiles. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Romanian foods and drinks such as roast chestnuts, warm mulled wine, and gingerbread cookies.
The markets also feature live music, cultural performances, and traditional folk shows, making it a great place to experience the culture of Romania. Visitors can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city to experience the Christmas lights and decorations.
In addition to the Christmas markets, the city also holds several other events and activities throughout the holiday season, such as caroling, Christmas concerts, and a New Year’s Eve party in the main square.
Overall, the Christmas markets in Brasov are a wonderful experience that offers a unique blend of tradition and festive atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many places to see in Brașov, and there are plenty of other interesting and unique attractions to discover in this charming city.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just looking for a beautiful and festive destination, Brașov is a great place to visit. We loved our short stay in the city and we would definitely recommend it as a must-visit for anyone travelling to Transylvania!
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