Sighisoara, an example of a small fortified city in the border region between the Latin-oriented culture of central Europe and the Byzantine-Orthodox culture of south-eastern Europe, is outstanding testimony to the fast-disappearing culture of the Transylvanian Saxons.
Saxon Colonization
The city, which lies in the heart of Transylvania, developed on a plateau and is dominated by a hill overlooking a bend in the river Tirnava. In the 13th century, German craftsmen and merchants were ordered by the Hungarian sovereigns to colonize Transylvania and protect the border of the Carpathians against the steppe peoples.
They settled on a hill, called the City Hill, which has revealed traces of occupation going back to the Palaeolithic period.
Castrum Sex
Following incursions by the Tatars in 1241, the fortified settlement was reinforced with walls, guarded by towers, later extended to surround the entire plateau. The town, known in 1280 as Castrum Sex, developed commercial activities thanks to the powerful guilds of craftsmen.
Each guild was responsible for the construction of a tower and its defense. The town’s importance was recognized in 1367 when it obtained the title ‘Civitas’ and became the second national political entity of Transylvania. Under pressure from the Turks between 1421 and 1526, the city heightened its walls.
The historic center of Sighisoara is composed of a fortified site spread over a steeply sloping plateau and dominated by City Hill, and the Lower Town with its woody slopes lying below. These two sectors form an inseparable group corresponding to the historic boundaries of the medieval town.
The beating heart of Sighișoara is its medieval citadel, perched majestically atop a hill. Built by skilled guilds in the late Middle Ages, this architectural gem boasts nine well-preserved towers. Each tower bears the name of the craftsmen who lovingly shaped it.
Don’t miss the Clock Tower, a sentinel that has stood the test of time. Climb its spiraling staircase to the top, where panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside await. Inside, the History Museum unravels the town’s rich tapestry.
The Enigmatic Clock Tower
At 64 meters tall, the Clock Tower dominates the skyline. Its origins trace back to the 13th century, when it served as both a defensive stronghold and the town hall. But it’s the intricate clock that steals the show.
As the hour strikes, allegorical automatons—representing peace, justice, and the days of the week—come to life. It’s a mesmerizing dance frozen in time.