1. A Saxon Stronghold Since The 12Th Century
In the 12th and 13th centuries, the King Of Hungary invited German Saxons to settle in Transylvania, and the medieval town of Sighisoara was the result (or "Schaäsburg" as the Saxons called it). To guard against Turkish attacks, these craftsmen and soldiers built an impressive citadel, which is now the centerpiece of the modern city. With nine original towers still standing, this UNESCO designated site is a historical wonderland. Every summer, it also hosts a Medieval Festival, the city's cultural highlight.
2. An Iconic Transylvanian Timepiece
The most famous building in all of Sighisoara is Turnul cu Ceas, the Citadel's clock tower, and it's a must-see for everyone who visits. Mainly built in the 17th century, but refined by later Austrian craftsmen, the tower features allegorical sculptures of Peace, Justice, and Law, as well as the Angels of Day and Night, who swap places depending on the time of day. To see the figures in action, try to be in the square below at 18:00. It's a magical sight.
3. A Stunning Sacred Survival
Also known as the Monastery Church, this holy place has been a focal point for religious life in Sighisoara since the Saxons arrived. Starting out as a Dominican monastery chapel, it became a Lutheran church in the 16th century, then a standalone church when the monastery was demolished. Nowadays, on the outside it's a great example of Gothic architecture, while on the inside it's a glittering Baroque masterpiece, with a bronze font, gorgeous windows and oriental carpets dating back to the 16th century.
4. A Historical Attraction That Doesn'T Suck
When they come to Transylvania, Count Dracula is never far from visitors' minds, and vampire fans are in luck when they arrive in Sighisoara. That's because Vlad Dracul, the inspiration for the Dracula myth, was born in the city in 1431. It's a humble place, and is happy to welcome visitors to see its Museum of Weapons, while you can even dine on Romanian fare in the ground floor restaurant (but go easy on the garlic). The highlight is definitely having the chance to see the bedroom where young Vlad was born and raised until the age of four, when his family moved elsewhere.
5. Tree-Mendous Fun
If you feel the need for a bit of nature during your stay in Sighisoara, a visit to the Breite Ancient Oak Tree Reserve is a must. Stretching over 74 acres on a grassy plateau, it's home to massive oaks that were just putting down roots when the Saxons arrived in the 1200s. Because of its ancient inhabitants, Breite is a biodiversity hotspot, and it's less than two miles outside the city center, so getting there by bike, car, or even walking isn't too hard.
