Sighișoara, considered one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, is a true gem among Romanian monuments. Founded in the 12th century by German colonists, it quickly became an important trading center thanks to its strategic location on European trade routes. The first written mention of the city dates back to 1280, although the town itself was built as early as 1191. Despite numerous invasions and destructions, Sighișoara has retained its medieval character, a fact appreciated by UNESCO, which listed it as a World Heritage Site.

The heart of medieval Sighișoara is the citadel with its well-preserved towers, bastions and historic buildings. The city's most distinctive landmark is undoubtedly the Clock Tower (Torre del Reloj), which towers 64 meters above the city. This 14th-century structure once served as the main gate to the citadel, and today houses a museum of local history. The tower is famous for its mechanical clock with figures that perform their dance at midnight. It is worth climbing to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city with its red roofs and narrow cobblestone streets.

Sighișoara is also the birthplace of Vlad Dracula (Vlad the Impaler), who became the inspiration for the character Count Dracula. The house where this Wallachian ruler was born still stands today at the citadel square and is one of the main tourist attractions. It now houses a restaurant where you can enjoy traditional Transylvanian dishes. Local legend has it that mysterious sounds can still be heard in the basement of Dracula's house, and some locals claim to have seen the ghost of Vlad himself there.

In addition to the Clock Tower, look out for the Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), reached by a covered staircase of 175 steps. This 13th century Gothic temple hides 500-year-old frescoes and is one of the oldest religious monuments in the region. A lesser-known but equally fascinating site is the Venetian House, built in the 13th century, which is an excellent example of medieval bourgeois architecture.

Every year, Sighișoara hosts a medieval festival, during which the city fills with knights, craftsmen and musicians, bringing to life the traditions of past centuries. It's a great opportunity to see demonstrations of knightly battles, listen to ancient music and taste food prepared according to medieval recipes. For history lovers, this is an event not to be missed.

Strolling through the narrow streets of Sighișoara, you can feel like you are in a time machine. The colorful houses, cobblestone streets and medieval walls create a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the world. The city has a population of about 26,370 people, making it one of the smaller but most historically significant cities in Romania.

Oradea, located in the western part of Romania on the border with Hungary, is a city with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, which impresses with its architecture and cultural heritage. Although not as well-known as Sighișoara or Braşov, Oradea is an important point on the map of Romania's medieval monuments. The city developed around an impressive fortress, which remains its most important symbol and testimony to its turbulent past.

The Oradea Fortress is a monumental monument of defensive architecture that for centuries played a key role in the region's fortification system. Built in the shape of a five-pointed star, the fortress is an excellent example of Renaissance fortification art. Its origins date back to the 11th century, when King Ladislaus I the Holy of Hungary established a bishopric here and erected the first fortress. The fortress acquired its present shape in the 16th century, when it was rebuilt according to the then latest Italian models of defensive art.

The fortress of Oradea survived numerous sieges, including invasions by the Ottoman Turks, who finally captured it in 1660 and ruled it for more than 30 years. After its recapture from Turkish hands, the fortress was once again fortified and expanded by the Habsburgs. Traces of different eras and architectural styles can be found within its walls, making it a fascinating site for history buffs.

In recent years, the fortress has undergone extensive renovation, allowing it to regain its former splendor. Today it houses a museum, art galleries and a cultural center, where concerts, exhibitions and festivals are regularly held. Walking through the courtyards and corridors of the fortress, one can feel the spirit of history and imagine life as it was centuries ago. Of particular interest are the undergrounds of the fortress, where, according to local legends, treasures were hidden during numerous invasions.

There are many fascinating stories and legends associated with the fortress. One of them tells of mysterious tunnels that were supposed to connect the fortress to other important points in the city, allowing escape in case of a siege. Another legend tells of the ghost of a bishop who still guards the treasures hidden within the fortress walls. Although historians approach these tales with caution, they add to the charm of this historic site.

In addition to the fortress itself, Oradea impresses with the Art Nouveau architecture of the city center, which is often compared to a little Vienna. Beautifully restored townhouses, elegant squares and parks form a harmonious whole with the medieval fortress. Note the Black Eagle Palace (Palatul Vulturul Negru), a fine example of Art Nouveau architecture, and the Roman Catholic Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century.

Oradea is also known for its hot springs, which were used as early as the Middle Ages. Today, the city is famous for its modern thermal baths, where you can relax after a busy day of sightseeing. This combination of historical heritage and modern amenities makes Oradea an attractive destination for tourists of all interests.

Unlike more well-known Romanian cities, Oradea remains somewhat off the main tourist routes, allowing for a quiet and unhurried exploration of its charms. For history buffs, this is a real treat - they can explore the medieval sights without the crowds of tourists that often accompany visits to more popular destinations.

Transylvania, a land surrounded by the mountains of the Carpathian Mountains, is famous not only for its picturesque medieval towns, but also for its imposing castles, which have guarded strategic passes and trade routes for centuries. Two of the finest examples of medieval defensive architecture in Romania are Hunedoara Castle and Peleș Castle, which, although different in style and period of construction, are an integral part of the country's historical heritage.

Hunedoara Castle, also known as Corvinus Castle, is one of the most beautiful Gothic castles in Europe and the largest medieval castle in Romania. Its history dates back to the 14th century, when King Charles Robert of Andegavia of Hungary gave the fortress to the Hunyadi family as a reward for loyal service. The castle's greatest heyday came during the reign of John Hunyadi, a prominent Hungarian chieftain and regent, who significantly expanded the fortress in the 15th century.

The architecture of Hunedoara Castle impresses with its Gothic splendor. The mighty walls, soaring towers and richly decorated interiors testify to the power and wealth of its former owners. Particularly impressive are the Hall of Knights with its monumental marble columns and the Ne Boisa (Don't Be Afraid) Tower, supposedly named so because prisoners being led to execution heard these words from the guards. There are many legends associated with the castle, including one about a well that Turkish prisoners of war are said to have dug. They were promised freedom if they dug to the water, which took them 15 years. When they finished the job, however, they were executed, and their last words 'You have water, but you have no heart' were to be engraved on a stone by the well.

Hunedoara Castle has witnessed many historical events and has undergone numerous sieges. In the 16th century it was partially destroyed by fire, and then rebuilt by Gabriel Bethlen. It suffered another fire in the 19th century, after which it underwent extensive restoration. Today it is one of Romania's most important monuments and a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can admire a collection of medieval weapons, armor and everyday objects.

Peleș Castle, located in the picturesque village of Sinaia, has a completely different character. Although it is not a typical medieval castle, but rather a late 19th century neo-Renaissance royal residence, it is an important part of Romania's historical heritage and perfectly illustrates the evolution of castle architecture. The castle was commissioned by King Charles I, the first monarch of a united Romania, as the summer residence of the royal family.

Peleș Castle impresses with its splendor and wealth of architectural details. The 160 richly decorated chambers hide impressive collections of artwork, weapons, armor and furniture from various eras. The castle was extremely modern for its time - it had central heating, electricity and even its own power plant. Each room has a different theme and style, from the Italian Renaissance to German Baroque and French Rococo.

Of note are the Hall of Honor with its wooden coffered ceiling, the Hall of Arms with more than 4,000 exhibits of European and Oriental weapons, and the Music Hall with its inlaid panels and ivory piano. The castle is surrounded by a beautiful English-style park with numerous sculptures and fountains.

Comparing the two castles reveals a fascinating evolution of defensive architecture - from the austere, military character of the medieval Hunedoara Castle to the refined luxury of Peleș Castle. Hunedoara represents medieval military might, while Peleș symbolizes the prestige and wealth of the modern Romanian monarchy.

For history buffs, a visit to both sites provides a unique opportunity to compare different eras and styles. Hunedoar Castle, with an admission price in the middle range, offers an authentic medieval experience, while the slightly more expensive Peleș Castle impresses with its royal splendor and rich collections. Both castles are well-preserved and open to the public, although at Peleș Castle some parts are temporarily closed due to restoration work.