Sighisoara

Overview

Built by Saxon settlers in the 12th century, Sighisoara is one of the few medieval citadels in Europe still inhabited. The hilltop citadel is ringed by walls and towers, and its 64-metre clock tower houses a history museum. Colourful houses line the sloping lanes, Vlad the Impaler is said to have been born here, and a medieval festival is held each July.

History

Saxons settled here at the invitation of the Hungarian king in the 12th century and built the town, which became a craft and trading centre in the 14th and joined the World Heritage List in 1999.

Highlights

• •The 64-metre clock tower and its museum
• •Colourful houses along the sloping lanes
• •The walls and guild towers
• •The July medieval festival

Practical tips

• •The old town is built on a slope, so expect hills
• •The top of the clock tower gives a full view over the rooftops

Practical information

Best time

May-September

Tickets

The old town is free; the clock tower about RON 20

Opening hours

Old town open all day; clock tower 9:00-18:00

Local food

Romanian cabbage rolls, grilled sausage, plum brandy

Getting around

About 2.5 hours by train from Brasov, or two hours by car.

Visa

A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.

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