Brasov, Romania

Brasov, Romania is located in the Transylvania region of the country surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. It’s the seventh (7th) largest city in Romania.

It is situated in the central part of Romania approximately 103 miles (166 Kilometers) north of Bucharest, and about 236 miles (380 kilometers) from the Black Sea. It’s known for its medieval and Gothic architecture.

A much slower pace of life predominates you wander through the cobblestone streets and experience a romantic and relaxing feeling.

Some Local History

The origins of Brasov date back to the Neolithic Age which is about 9500 BC. Brasov was developed to a large degree by Transylvanian Saxons as they were encouraged by Hungarian kings to do a large amount of the work.

This involved cultivating the land, building mines, as well as the overall development of Brasov and neighboring towns. This occurred between 1141 AD and 1300 AD.

The settlers came primarily from Flanders, Moselle, and the Rhineland. Others were from Wallonia, France, Bavaria, and Thuringia. In 1211 the Teutonic Knights built Kronstadt, the City of the Crown, to help defend the border of the Kingdom of Hungary.

Trade and crafts were the main occupations of Germans living in Brasov. Since the city was located at the intersection of trade routes between Western Europe and the Ottoman Empire, Saxon merchants gained quite a bit of wealth as well as political influence.

After the city was destroyed by fire in 1689, it took several decades to rebuild.

In addition to the Saxon or German folks, the city was populated by Romanians and Bulgarians living in the Schei district and Hungarians in the Blumana district.

In 1838 the Romanians established the first Romanian newspaper and an institution of higher learning.

Romanian troops occupied the city briefly during World War I but the city was quickly retaken by the Central Powers.

The union of Transylvania into the Romanian state occurred on December 1, 1918, after the collapse of Austria-Hungary. As Hungarians withdrew northward, Romanians permanently occupied the area on December 7th.

After World War II the area came under Communist control by the Soviet Union. During this period industrial development accelerated.

Interesting facts about Brasov, Romania

• the population of Brasov is estimated to be 552,929
• the cobbled old town, Piata Sfatului, is home to the local history museum, Casa Sfatului, formerly the town hall
• Dracula’s Castle is within driving distance of the city
• Strada Sforli or String Street is extremely narrow being only 44 (111.76 centimeters) to 53 (134.62 cm) inches wide
• the blackened walls of the Black Church are the result of the 1689 AD fire
• a cable car is available to the top of Tampa Mountain or you can take an invigorating hike and obtain magnificent views of the area
• the airplane manufacturing plant produced the first Romanian fighter planes used during World War II. It was later used to repair trucks and manufacture agricultural tractors. The area now is a shopping mall and recreational park.
• although it has declined, Brasov still has a solid industrial base manufacturing textiles, hand tools, furniture, auto parts, hydraulic transmissions, furniture, and construction materials, as well as a large brewery.
• the area has a humid, continental climate with the full four seasons. From May through September the temperature is around 73 F (23 C)
• the city has a mayor and local council
• the Brasov-Ghimbav International Airport is located in the nearby town of Ghimbov.   Local transport is by car, bus, trolley, or train
• Brasov is centrally located in the country which gives it easy access to several tourist destinations including Poiana Brasov a nearby winter resort, the monasteries in northern Moldavia, the wooden churches of Maramures, and the Black Sea resorts
• the area is popular for a variety of winter sports
  

Things to do in Brasov

* The Schei District — this area was created by the Romanians who were not allowed to live within the fortified walls during Saxon rule between the 13th and 17th centuries. Lots of history is here. Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church is well worth a visit. On the church grounds, there is a museum with many valuable books including the oldest bible in Romania. The first Romanian school is also on the grounds.

* The Carpathian Mountains — just beyond Brasov are magnificent landscapes, pristine nature, and gorgeous views in this mountain area. The locals employ centuries-old farming practices in the rural countryside and rolling hills.

* Walk through the Historic Streets — the cobblestone streets are lined with shops, cafes, and plenty of food carts with a variety of local cuisine. There’s also a free walking tour every night from April through September. The tour takes you through the Saxon center, along the fortified walls, to the Schei district. It’s a 2 to 3-hour walk with plenty of historical information from the guide. Also, check out one of the narrowest streets in Europe, Strada Sforii (Spring Street) which is only 44 inches (111.76 cm) at its narrowest and 53 inches (134.62 cm) at its widest point. The fireman in the past used it to get between the tightly packed houses.

* Piata Sfatului, Council Square — this is the center of the city’s historic district. Surrounding the clock tower of the 13th-century town hall are numerous cafes scattered about the arc-shaped square. This is a great place to relax and people-watch. Tourists and locals can be found interacting in this place of executions and public trials from the 13th century.

* Rasnov Fortress — built in the 14th century by the Saxons, it was constructed to protect the area from invaders from Asia and Europe. It was recently restored and has stone houses, a school, and fantastic views of the countryside.

* Biserica Neagra, Black Church — just off the main square is the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe. Although not black in color, the 1689 fire darkened the walls from the smoke. The geography and history of the area are evidenced by the Anatolian carpets that adorn the inner walls of the cathedral as well as the Gothic architecture.

* Kurtoskolacs — this is a sweet cylinder cake roasted on a spit and sold from street carts. It differs from other similar treats from other nearby countries by its sheer large size.

* Explore the Surrounding Area — there is much to see outside the city including the mountains, villages, and castles. Brasov’s central location provides easy access to these areas. There is a bear-watching tour in the Carpathian Mountains where you see brown bears in their natural habitat. You can travel through the Transylvanian alps and visit the Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, and Bran Castle. There are two UNESCO Heritage sites where you will learn much about Saxon history.

* The Medieval Walls & Catherine’s Gate — constructed in 1559 Catherine’s Gate is the lasting standing original medieval gate. It has four turret towers on each corner. The fortified walls date back almost 600 years.

* Tampa Mountain — there are two hiking trails or you can take the cable car to the summit of this mountain which has a large BRASOV sign at the top. It takes about an hour to hike but the views of the surrounding area are worth it.

* The Black & White Towers — behind the city’s old wall fortifications the is a path leading to the White Tower built in 1494 and the Black Tower which got its name after being struck by lightning. Both provide excellent views of the city.

Why Visit Brasov, Romania

 

There are many reasons to visit this most enchanting and interesting city including its sheer beauty and charm. It’s a quieter place off the beaten path with a rich history and fascinating culture.

As for accommodations, Pensiunea Casa Tepes is comfortable and inexpensive in a good location. Vila Alba Brasov is also priced well and centrally located. In the heart of the city is Drachenhaus, a beautiful hotel with great amenities. There is also a guest house called Kronhaus that is a very good option. It has a much more homey atmosphere than a hotel.

In any event, this is a most interesting part of the world that is well worth checking out and experiencing a culture filled with much history in a fascinating setting.

Enjoy your travels,

Josep William

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