The Middle Ages, often referred to as the “Dark Ages,” may have faced criticism for various reasons, but that era has left us with a plethora of enduring treasures. Among these treasures stands Sighișoara, a medieval fortress adorned with majestic towers, rightfully crowned as “the pearl of Transylvania.” Nestled along the banks of the Târnava Mare River, Sighișoara retains nine of its original fourteen Craftsmen’s Towers, providing visitors with an abundance of historical wonders to explore.
If you’ve yet to experience the charm of Sighișoara, your initial impression will transport you into a tale plucked from the heart of the Middle Ages. Here, you may feel as though a mounted knight in gleaming armor could emerge at any moment. This feeling is only intensified as you seek out the Clock Tower, hailed as the primary tourist attraction, housing the Hall of Arms and the Torture Chamber, among other captivating exhibits. You will discover that this fortress once witnessed the dark chapters of history, where centuries ago women faced accusations of witchcraft, thievery was met with beheading, and outlaws endured public scorn in the Central Square.
Atop the Clock Tower, along the balustrade, you’ll find precise distances and compass directions leading to the world’s grandest capitals. But who cares about other parts of the world when the allure of Sighișoara itself transcends comparison. Gazing upward, you’ll be greeted by a picturesque panorama of vibrant houses cradled beneath a sea of reddish-tiled roofs.
