Romania’s Best Kept Secret: The Medieval Villages of Transylvania
When you think of Romania, you might picture mysterious castles, towering mountains, or stories of Dracula. While these are all essential parts of Romania’s identity, there’s another treasure waiting to be explored: the medieval villages of Transylvania. Hidden away from the crowds, these villages offer a glimpse into a world where time seems to have stood still. From cobblestone streets to fortified churches and Saxon architecture, these villages are the essence of charm and history. Here's why the medieval villages of Transylvania should be on your Romania itinerary.
Sighisoara – The birthplace of Dracula
If there’s one village that embodies the spirit of medieval Transylvania, it’s Sighisoara. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sighisoara is a living, breathing medieval citadel that transports visitors back in time. The town’s narrow streets are lined with colorful houses, fortified towers, and old stone churches, all of which have been beautifully preserved over centuries.
Sighisoara is famously known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. You can even visit the house where he was born, now a museum and restaurant where you can dine surrounded by history. Don’t miss climbing the Clock Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the town. The tower also houses a small museum that details the region's history and craftsmanship.
Viscri – A Saxon village frozen in time
Viscri is a tiny Saxon village that feels like it was plucked straight out of a fairytale. The village is famous for its whitewashed fortified church, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 12th-century church, with its thick walls and quaint bell tower, offers a glimpse into the medieval defense systems used by the Saxons.
Wandering through Viscri’s dirt roads, you’ll pass by traditional houses painted in bright blues and greens. Many of these homes have been restored using traditional techniques, and some even serve as guesthouses where you can experience the simplicity and charm of rural life. You might even bump into local craftspeople who are happy to show you their traditional skills, like blacksmithing and weaving.
One of the most interesting aspects of Viscri is its connection to King Charles III who has a property in the village and has actively supported the preservation of Saxon heritage here. Staying in Viscri allows you to step into a slower pace of life, where you can enjoy farm-to-table meals, local wines, and the tranquility of the countryside. If you plan to take a tour of Romania, Viscri should definitely be on your itinerary.
Biertan – A fortress of faith
Biertan is one of Transylvania’s most impressive medieval villages, primarily known for its imposing fortified church. This church, one of the largest and most impressive in Transylvania, sits atop a hill and is surrounded by multiple layers of defensive walls. It’s a striking example of how medieval villages fortified themselves against invaders.
Visitors can explore the church’s interior, including the intricately carved altar and the unique sacristy door, which has a complex locking mechanism dating back to the 16th century. The village itself is equally charming, with cobbled lanes and picturesque houses that reflect the Saxon heritage of the area. Biertan was once an important religious center, serving as the seat of the Lutheran bishops for nearly 300 years.
Rimetea – The village of white houses
Nestled in the foothills of the Apuseni Mountains, Rimetea is one of Transylvania’s hidden gems. This Hungarian-influenced village is known for its uniform white houses with green windows, a unique architectural style that has been preserved for generations. The village’s location is also breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs rising above it, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
One of the highlights of visiting Rimetea is hiking up to Piatra Secuiului (The Rock of the Szeklers), which offers spectacular views of the village and surrounding landscape. Rimetea’s charm lies in its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to experience rural life in one of Romania’s most beautiful settings. Visitors can stay in traditional guesthouses, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warmth of Hungarian-Romanian hospitality.
Sibiel – A hidden gem near Sibiu
Just a short drive from the city of Sibiu, Sibiel is a lesser-known village that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. This village is famous for its Icon Museum, which houses a stunning collection of glass icons painted by Romanian peasants. It’s a testament to the strong faith and artistic traditions of the local communities.
Walking through Sibiel, you’ll see traditional houses with wooden gates and flower-filled gardens. Many of the homes in Sibiel have been converted into guesthouses, where you can experience authentic Romanian hospitality. In the evening, the village comes alive with the sounds of crickets and the smell of wood-fired ovens preparing local dishes like bulz (a type of polenta) and ciorba (sour soup).
Malancrav – Discover saxon heritage
Another picturesque Saxon village is Malâncrav, a place where centuries-old traditions still thrive. Known for its fortified church and beautifully restored Saxon homes, Malâncrav offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the past. The village is surrounded by orchards, and it’s common to see locals tending to their fruit trees and livestock.
Malâncrav is also home to a unique fresco cycle within its church, depicting scenes from the life of Jesus in vivid colors. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval frescoes in Transylvania. Visitors can explore this and also stay in one of the restored Saxon guesthouses, where meals are prepared using ingredients sourced right from the village.
Rasnov – A castle with a view
While Rasnov is often overshadowed by nearby Bran Castle, it offers its own medieval charm. The Rasnov Fortress dominates the landscape and is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Romania. The view from the fortress walls is truly spectacular, with the Carpathian Mountains forming a dramatic backdrop.
The village of Rasnov itself is small but charming, with a few cozy cafes and traditional houses that add to its old-world atmosphere. After exploring the fortress, visitors can stroll through the village and relax in the quaint square or take a ride on the Rasnov lift for an even better view of the surrounding scenery.
Crit – Traditional life at its best
Criț is another authentic Saxon village where traditional life remains largely unchanged. The fortified church here dates back to the 15th century and stands as a monument to the community’s Saxon heritage. Visitors can explore the church and its bell tower, learning about the defensive measures once used to protect the village.
Staying in Criț offers a truly immersive experience. Guesthouses provide visitors with home-cooked meals featuring local ingredients, such as cheeses, sausages, and fresh vegetables. The village’s location, surrounded by rolling hills and fields, makes it a great place for hiking and cycling, offering a peaceful retreat from more touristy areas.
Copsa Mare – A rural escape
Close to the famous village of Biertan, Copsa Mare is a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path option for travelers seeking tranquility. This village has retained much of its Saxon charm, with traditional architecture, a peaceful atmosphere, and friendly locals eager to share their heritage.
The church in Copsa Mare is a simple yet charming structure, and the surrounding landscapes are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. This village is ideal for those who want to disconnect from the modern world and experience the slower pace of rural Romanian life.
Valea Viilor – A fortified jewel
Finally, no tour of Transylvania’s medieval villages would be complete without visiting Valea Viilor. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its fortified church, which sits atop a hill and offers views of the village below. The church is surrounded by defensive walls and bastions, illustrating the importance of these structures in protecting communities during the Middle Ages.
Visitors to Valea Viilor can explore the church’s interior, walk along its ramparts, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the village. It’s a place where history comes alive, and the charm of the past still lingers in every corner.
Conclusion
Transylvania’s medieval villages are more than just tourist attractions; they are living pieces of history. Each village tells a story of resilience, heritage, and the blending of cultures that shaped Romania’s identity. Whether you’re wandering through the colorful streets of Sighisoara or relaxing in a traditional guesthouse in Viscri, these villages offer a unique and enriching travel experience.
If you’re looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, Romania’s medieval villages should be at the top of your list. Explore these hidden gems, and you’ll discover why Transylvania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
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