Brasov,
Sibiu
and Sighisoara are some of Europe's best-preserved
medieval towns, real live museums, veritable symbols
of Transylvania. Visitors can stumble on unique architectural
treasures, ancient tiny houses that line narrow streets,
cobblestoned passageways and covered stone steps as
they wander. Tiny shops purvey a range of antiques
and fine hand-made products of artisans and artists
who have established little communities in the countryside.
Sighisoara
Sighisoara, which Vlad Tepes called home, is one of
the most beautiful towns in the heart of Transylvania.
The German architectural influences are visible throughout
the entire city. Sighisoara was for several centuries
a military and political stronghold. One of its most
famous attractions is the Clock Tower (Council Tower),
built in the 14th Century. This was the control tower
of the main gate of the 2,500 feet long defensive
wall. The tower has seven foot thick walls and was
used to store ammunition, food reserves, archives
and the city's treasures. The clock was placed in
the tower in the 17th Century. Highlights include:
Guild Tower, Venetian House (built in the 13th Century),
Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) House, Antler House, Wooden
Covered Staircase, Hill Church, Hermann Oberth Square.
