Brasov Architecture

Guide to Historic Architecture in Brasov

We spent a month in Brasov researching historic architecture. We’ve summarized the information we collected so you can start enjoying these sights as soon as you arrive!

The architecture around Council Square dominates the Old Town of Brasov. The historic architectural sights in Brasov are impressive. As you walk around the city, you will be captivated by the remarkable buildings that adorn its streets, with the Citadel overlooking all of it.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Architecture in Council Square

The Council Square (Piata Sfatului) is the center of architecture in Brasov.

Counsel's House in Brasov Romania

The Council House

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Style: Baroque

Built: 1774 to 1778

Address: Piața Sfatului 38, Brașov 500025, Romania

The Council House was destroyed in the devastating fire of 1689. It was rebuilt between 1774 and 1778 in a Baroque style. The loggia was decorated with the town’s blazonry, while the tower’s domed roof was conserved in its original form until 1910.

The Council’s House served as the town’s archive until 1923. Since 1950, the building has functioned as a museum, exhibiting historical and archaeological collections.

Black Church in Brasov Romania

The Black Church

Style: Gothic

Built: 1385 to 1477

Address: Curtea Johannes Honterus 2

The Black Church (Biserica Neagra) is the largest Gothic church in Romania and it is also the most distinctive landmark in Brasov. The church was constructed between 1385 and 1477 on the site of a previous church that was destroyed during Mongol invasions in 1242. During the construction of the Marienkirche, which is how it was known in German, there was significant damage caused by Turkish raids in 1421, which hampered the building process.

The church received its new name after it was hit by disaster once again in 1689. The Great Fire destroyed most parts of the town and left the walls of the church blackened. Restoration of the church took almost a century to complete. Although two towers were planned, only one was ultimately finished.

The Black Church is the biggest Gothic church located between Vienna and Istanbul, with a grand and imposing structure.

The church bell weighs seven tons and is the largest and heaviest bell in Romania.

The original Gothic interior of the church has been renovated and is now mostly baroque. The interior is stunning, featuring balconies, stained glass windows, a huge organ, stone columns, and walls adorned with beautiful Turkish carpets. In order to protect the 119 Anatolian carpets, special UV-filtering glass has been installed in the church windows. These carpets were donated to the church by German merchants in the 17th and 18th centuries, who were grateful to have survived their journeys to the south and east of the Carpathians. The collection of these carpets is the largest of its kind in Europe.

The church’s organ, dating back to 1839, still functions with 4,000 pipes and offers weekly concerts.

Merchant's House in Brasov Romania

The Merchants House

Built: 1544 to 1545 (original); 1759 (repaired); 1957 to 1961 (restored)

Address: Piata Sfatului 12-14

Merchant’s House (now the Cerbul Carpatin Restaurant)

The Merchants House aka Hirscher House was built between 1544 and 1545 using the funds donated by Apollonia, the widow of the judge mayor of Brasov, Lucas Hirscher. It is located at the crossroads of the marketplace and the street that is now named after the benefactress. Unfortunately, the building was destroyed in 1689 by a fire, but it was repaired in 1759 and then restored to its original appearance between 1957 and 1961. Today, it is considered to be the most significant commercial program of Renaissance architecture in Transylvania.

Romanian Orthodox Cathedral in Brasov Romania

The Assumption of Virgin Mary Orthodox Church

Style: neo-Byzantine

Built: 1895 to 1896

Address: Piata Sfatului 3

The Assumption of Virgin Mary Orthodox Church (Catedrala Ortodoxa Adormirea Maicii Domnului) was constructed between 1895 and 1896 in the neo-Byzantine style, featuring a central dome and a bell tower. A tower in the same style was later added to the facade facing the square, but it collapsed during the 1940 earthquake. The tower was reconstructed in 1973 along with the facade of the parish houses.

The temple inside the church is adorned with carved and gilded art pieces created by János Kupcsay, the director of the sculpture school in Brașov. Kupcsay made the pulpit, bishop’s seat, iconostasis, and galleries on the choir platform.

Mureșenilor House Museum in Brasov Romania

Mureșenilor House Museum

Address: Piata Sfatului 25

Mureșenilor House Museum aka Muresan Family Memorial Museum (Muzeul Memorial Casa Muresenilor) was established in 1968, thanks to the generous donations of the Mureseanu family. It houses the largest family archive in Romania, comprising over 25,000 documents, letters, photographs, newspapers, rare books, paintings, sculptures, and 19th century furniture.

Jacob Muresan, the first of many Mureseanus, was a teacher who married into wealth. In 1838, he founded the Transylvania Gazette (Gazeta de Transilvania), a political newspaper that presented the opinions of the most important politicians in Transylvania and other regions of Romania.

Brasov architecture starts in Council's Square

Urban Civilization Museum of Brașov

Address: Piata Sfatului 15

The Museum of Urban Civilization is dedicated to showcasing the way of life of urban inhabitants and the commercial relationships of Brasov with the Orient and the Occident during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The museum is located inside the Closius House, which was erected from the 16th to the 19th century, along with the residences of the families Hiemesch and Giesel in the southern part of the Council Place. The museum reflects the typical housing style of the urban patriciate during the Renaissance in Transylvania. The house conserves elements characteristic of the period such as representation halls with semi-cylindrical vaults and plastering moldings, interiors decorated with vegetal-floral and figurative mural paintings, and elements of decorative stonework.

City Walls in Brasov

Between the 14th and 17th centuries, Brasov became one of the most fortified medieval towns in the area. Its irregular quadrilateral perimeter was initially endowed with several walls, 28 defense towers, and eight bastions, all maintained and defended by artisans’ corporations. The Goldsmiths’ Bastion completed the works in 1646. The best-conserved fortifications nowadays are the Lower Walls’ fortifications, located across the Graft Canal, and the Upper Walls under Tâmpa Hill.

THE NORTHWESTERN SIDE OF THE STRONGHOLD

Graft Bastion in Brasov Romania

The Graft Bastion

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On the middle of the northwestern side of the stronghold, you’ll find The Graft Bastion (Bastionul Graft). It’s a perpendicular structure built on the wall of the stronghold, acting as a bridge over a rivulet. Its purpose is to connect the White Tower to the internal fortifications. The construction is rectangular in shape and has a vaulted passage over the water. It has two levels of defense, including shooting windows and throwing gussets, which were used to control the entire length of the walls.

The Graft Bastion has been restored and turned into a museum in the years 2003-2004. During this time, an access staircase was also constructed towards the White Tower.

White Tower in Brasov Romania

The White Tower

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The White Tower (Turnul Alb), constructed during the 15th century (either in 1460 or 1494), is located on the slopes of Romurilor Hill. It was assigned for defense to the corporations of the tinners and the coppersmiths and has a semicircular plan with five levels of defense galleries equipped with shooting holes, crenels, and throwing gussets for liquids. Access to the tower was previously through a mobile ladder, and the supplies and garrison changes occurred between palisades, directly from Graft Bastion. Unfortunately, the tower was destroyed by fire in 1689, but it was later restored in 1723 and 1902. Further restoration work was carried out in 1974 and 2003-2005, and it now functions as a museum.

Black Tower in Brasov Romania

The Black Tower

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The squared Black Tower (Turnul Negru), also built in 1494, stands atop a rock on Starja Hill near the Blacksmiths’ Bastion.

The Black Tower got its name after a severe fire incident in 1559 caused by lightning. It has recently undergone renovation and now features a pyramid-shaped glass roof. The tower serves as a home to a small museum displaying war-related artifacts. The interior of the tower has four floors, each accessible via a narrow wooden ladder. If you climb all the way to the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Black Church.

Blacksmiths’ Bastion in Brasov Romania

The Blacksmiths' Bastion

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First attested in 1529, the Blacksmiths’ Bastion (Bastionul Fierarilor) is now home to the Brasov Archives which hosts more than 100,000 old and rare documents, including 80 valuable 14th to 16th-century letters. Among them is the oldest letter in the Romanian language, written in 1521 by Neacsu, a merchant from the town of Campulung.

THE SOUTHWESTERN SIDE OF THE STRONGHOLD

Catherine's Gate in Brasov Romania

Catherine's Gate

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Catherine’s Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei), erected in 1559 by the Tailors’ Guild, is the only original gate to have survived from medieval times. The fairy-tale tower we see today was part of a bigger structure, which, unfortunately, was demolished in 1827.

The original structure can be seen at the Weavers’ Bastion Museum where a large model of 16th century Brasov is displayed. The four small corner turrets (as seen in other Saxon citadels) symbolized the judicial autonomy of the Town Council which could apply, if necessary, the death penalty.

Above the entrance, the tower bears the city’s coat of arms: a crown on a tree trunk.

Schei Gate in Brasov Romania

The Şchei Gate

Style: Classicist

Built: 1827 to 1828

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The Şchei Gate (Poarta Schei) was built between 1827 and 1828 to improve traffic flow between “Brasov’s Stronghold” and “The Upper Suburb.” The gate’s Classicist style design features a central opening for vehicles, flanked by two pedestrian access points. The Latin inscriptions, created by notary Joseph Franz Trausch, mention the names of Emperor Francis I, Judge Mayor Johannes Jacob Mylius, regional judge Johann Georg von Trauschenfels, and the year of completion. Following the earthquake of March 4th, 1997, the gate was restored and has since undergone several repairs, the most recent being in 2004.

THE SOUTHEASTERN SIDE OF THE STRONGHOLD

The Weavers' Bastion

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The Weavers’ Bastion (Bastionul Țesătorilor) was built from 1421 to 1436 and rebuilt from 1570 to 1573. This is the largest medieval bastion in Brasov and the best-preserved among the seven original watchtowers constructed around the city walls.

Today, the Weavers’ Bastion houses an interesting museum that can be visited on the way up Tâmpa Mountain.

The Wall Under Tâmpa Hill

The wall beneath Tâmpa Hill was originally secured with eight towers and had a dry defense ditch on the outside. Recent archaeological excavations have uncovered the foundations of the towers that were demolished in the 19th century. The corner fortifications, namely the Waivers Bastion towards the south and the Drapers Bastion towards the east, were located on the slope towards the town of Tâmpa Massif. The walls that bordered the cattle courtyard and were protected by towers are not preserved anymore.

In the 19th century, the Upper Promenade was built along the southeastern fortifications of Brasov’s Stronghold. This provided visitors with a chance to admire the attractions located on the side of Tâmpa hill. Additionally, the Royal Promenade on the opposite side offered a unique panoramic view of the town.

Ropemakers’ Bastion in Brasov Romania

The Ropemakers' Bastion

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The Ropemakers’ Bastion is a medieval stronghold located at the mid-length of the upper walls of Brasov. It was built in the 16th century with a polygonal plan and walls made of alternating rows of stone and bricks. The bastion has a watch gallery, shooting holes, and crenels on the upper side. It was restored in 2004. Nearby, you can also find The Powder-Mill Tower which has been well-preserved.

Drapers Bastion in Brasov Romania

The Drapers' Bastion

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The eastern corner of Brasov’s Stronghold was once protected by the Drapers Bastion, which was originally assigned for defense to the goldsmiths’ guild. The ellipsoidal monument was built on the remains of older constructions that were connected to the first enclosure of walls of the medieval fortifications. It was mentioned in historical documents between 1521-1522, when new works were carried out. The monument still retains its narrow rectangular shooting windows, alternating at the last level with black oil gussets. The access from and towards the town is pristine, endowed with a framework in broken arch of profiled stone. In the upper side, the bastion used to be endowed with a castellated crown of the arch, which was still visible in 1873.

The objective was assigned to the drapers’ guild in 1646.

The Drapers’ Bastion was consolidated between 1961 and 1962 and restored from 2006-2012, Today, it is a museum.

Tanner's Bastion in Brasov Romania

The Red Tanners’ Bastion

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The Red Tanners’ Bastion is the only monument that remains of the northeastern fortifications of Brasov’s Stronghold, which were demolished in the 19th century. It was built at the beginning of the 16th century, near the Drapers’ Bastion, and formed part of the outer enclosure that reinforced the eastern defense line of the town. It had a horseshoe-shaped plan with alternating stone and brick facades, shooting holes for razing fire, and a castellated crown on the arch’s upper side, which unfortunately no longer exists today.

During the period 1961-1962, the bastion was restored. New restoration works were carried out during 2005.

Hunter's Tower in Brasov Romania

The Hunter's Tower

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The Hunters’ Tower (Turnul Vânătorilor) is one of the defensive towers that make up the city walls of the historic citadel of Brașov. It is situated in close proximity to the Ropemakers’ Bastion. The Hunters’ Tower underwent renovations in 2006 and now houses a small exhibition featuring folk art, medieval guns, and other hunting equipment.

Carpenter's Tower in Brasov Romania

The Carpenter's Tower

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The Carpenters’ Tower (Turnul Lemnarului) also known as the Woodmen’s Tower, located near the Drapers’ Bastion, is one of the defensive towers that make up the city walls of the Old Town.

Following a recent renovation, the Carpenters’ Tower now houses a sculpture workshop and a small exhibition showcasing the products made there.

Art's Tower in Brasov Romania

The Art's Tower

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The Arts Tower (Turnul Artelor), formerly known as the Potters’ Tower (Turnul Olarilor), is located on the southwestern side of Brașov’s historic citadel, near the Weavers’ Bastion.

After an extensive renovation of the city walls and defense towers in 2005-2007, the tower now hosts a variety of exhibitions.

Churches in Brasov

Brasov, a city known for its rich history and architectural beauty, is home to several remarkable churches that have stood the test of time.

Saint Bartholomew Church in Brasov Romania

Saint Bartholomew Church

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Address: Str. Lunga 247

Saint Bartholomew Church (Biserica Sfantul Bartolomeu), built in 1223, is considered the oldest architectural monument in Brasov. The church was built in Roman architectural style mixed with early Gothic elements. Inside, you can admire an ancient sundial on the southern side of the tower, as well as remarkably well-preserved fragments of original frescoes.

Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Brasov Romania

Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church

Style: Byzantine, Baroque, and Gothic

Built: 1495 (original); 18th century (expansion)

Address: Piata Unirii 1 – 2

Saint Nicholas Church (Biserica Sfantul Nicolae) dominates the Schei District. It was originally built in wood in 1392 but was replaced with a stone structure in 1495 and expanded in the 18th century. It stands as a true architectural masterpiece today.

Featuring a mix of Byzantine, Baroque, and Gothic styles, the building boasts a slender tower and four corner towers.

Surrounded by protective walls and large wooden gates, the medieval church houses a small cemetery where several prominent Romanians are buried.

Church of St. Paraskeva in Brasov Romania

Church of St. Paraskeva

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Built: 1874 to 1876

Address: Strada Doctor Gheorghe Baiulescu 16, Brașov 500107, Romania

Saint Parascheva Orthodox Church (Biserica Sfanta Parascheva) was built between 1874 and 1876 with the assistance of Brasov priest Bartholomeu Baiulescu. The church was constructed in the shape of a cross, with a dome comprising 16 windows, using a combination of stone and brick. The facade of the church contains mosaic elements and three beautiful stained glass windows. The roof of the church has 10 towers and a belfry that houses two bells.

The church is decorated with painted frescoes by Iosif Vasu and contains icons from 1838.

Franciscan Monastery in Brasov Romania

Franciscan Monastery

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Built: 1725

Address: Str. Sfintu Ioan 7

The Franciscan Monastery (Manastirea Franciscanilor) was built by the Lutherans in 1725 on the ruins of an old building destroyed by fire. Later, it was given to the Franciscan monks. It houses a 1729 organ.

Saint Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Cathedral in Brasov

Saint Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Cathedral

Style: Baroque

Built: 1776 to 1882

Address: Str. Muresenilor 19-21

Saint Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Cathedral (Catedrala Romano-Catolica Sfantul Petru si Pavel) was built between 1776 and 1882 on the site of an old Dominican church. The cathedral is considered to be the most representative Baroque-style building in Brasov.

Saint Martin Church in Brasov Romania

Saint Martin Church

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Built: 1225 (original); 1442 to 1447 (rebuilt); 1795 to 1796 (expanded)

Address: Str. Dealul de Jos 12

At the intersection of Lunga Street and de Mijloc Street stands Saint Martin Church (Biserica Sfantul Martin). The church has a long history, with the first recorded mention dating back to 1225. After the Ottoman invasion of 1421, the church was rebuilt from 1442 to 1447 and underwent further expansion between 1795 and 1796.

Synagogue in Brasov Romania

Beth Israel Synagogue of Brasov

Style: Neo-Gothic

Built: 1899 – 1901

Address: 29 Poarta Schei Street

Saint George's Church in Brasov Romania

Saint George's Church

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Evangelical Church of Poarta Schei in Brasov Romania

Evangelical Church of Poarta Schei

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Biserica Buna Vestire Orthodox Church in Brasov Romania

Biserica Buna Vestire Orthodox Church

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Museums in Brasov

Brasov County Museum in Brasov Romania

Brașov County Museum of History

Address: Piaţa Sfatului 30

The Brașov County Museum of History (Muzeul de Istorie al Brasovului) is located in the Old Town Hall building and showcases a variety of documents and artifacts that attest to the city’s rich and extensive history, spanning from ancient to modern times. The exhibits include tools made of stone from the Paleolithic age, painted ceramics from the Neolithic age, bronze and iron tools, armor, ancient weapons, and farming tools. In addition, the museum sheds light on the history of the Saxon guilds that dominated Brasov during medieval times.

First Romanian School in Brasov Romania

The First Romanian School Museum

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Address: Piata Unirii 2 – 3

Muzeul Prima Scoala Romaneasca

The original wooden building of the first Romanian school has been replaced by a stone construction, which was added in the 18th century. Between 1556 and 1583, Deacon Coresi printed the largest number of books in the Romanian language in Brasov during the 16th century.

The assembly of Saint Nicholas Church includes Barac House, built in the 18th century, and the cells along the enclosure wall from the early 19th century. Nowadays, these buildings host a unique collection of books (approximately 4000 tomes) and historical documents (around 30,000).

Since 1961, they also function as a museum complex, showcasing the culture and civilization of Scheii Brasovului. The museum is dedicated to Junii Braşovului, painter Ştefan Mironescu, musician Tudor Ciortea, and metropolitan bishop Andrei Şaguna.

Ethnography Museum in Brasov Romania

Ethnography Museum of Brașov

Address: Bulevardul Eroilor 21A

The Brasov Ethnography Museum (Muzeul de Etnografie Brasov) is home to a collection of silver jewelry made in Brasov during the 16th century, fur and sheepskin coats, and other traditional costumes. Black and white photographs depict how the clothes were worn and by whom. Additionally, the museum showcases the evolution of weaving, from an old spinning wheel to a mechanized loom. Visitors can also browse through the museum gift shop for folk art and local crafts.

Brașov Art Museum

Muzeul de Arta – Brasov

Address: Bulevardul Eroilor 21

The first and second floors are home to the National Gallery, a collection of canvases, by anonymous, 18th and 19th-century, Transylvanian painters as well as 20th-century artists, including Theodor Pallady, Nicolae Grigorescu, Stefan Luchian, Horia Bernea, Nicolae Tonitza, Gheorghe Petrascu, Dimitrie Paciurea, Ion Irimescu, Misu Popp, Constantin Lecca, Hans Eder

Brasov Art Museum also displays works by Brasov-born Hans Mattis-Teutsch (1884-1960), one of the most influential Romanian artists, as well as sculptures by Corneliu Medrea, Ion Jalea, Frederic Storck and Dimitrie Paciurea.

French photographer Brassai, famous for his portrayal of Paris at the beginning of the 20th century, was born in 1899 in Brasov. Upon his move to France he took on his artistic pseudonym Brassai, which means ‘from Brasov’.

The basement level features beautiful European crystal and porcelains and a large collection of Oriental vases and statuettes from China, Tibet and Persia.

Other Attractions in Brasov

The best things to see in Brasov, Romania include the Citadel

The Citadel

Built: 16th century

Address: Dealul Cetății

The Citadel aka Brasov Fortress (Cetatea Brassovia) is situated on a hill that provides a strategic vantage point overlooking the town and the northern plains. Originally constructed in wood in 1524, it was later replaced with a stone structure in the 16th century. However, the technological advancements of the 17th century rendered the citadel defenseless, as cannons became stronger than the building. As a result, it was abandoned during this period.

Brassovia Stronghold in Brasov Romania

Brassovia Stronghold

Built: 13th century

Address: Dealul Cetății

Brassovia Stronghold is located on Tampa Hill. It was constructed at the end of the 13th century as a place of refuge for the town’s inhabitants on a table-land located on the southern and western side of Tâmpa massif, which stands at a height of 960 meters. The walls, of which only fragments remain today, once encircled an area of 23,000 square meters with defense towers, a water tank, and a chapel dedicated to Saint Leonard.

Although the stronghold provided a secure haven for the town’s inhabitants, it was not easily accessible from the town and was difficult to maintain due to its size. The stronghold became a potential threat to the town, which was already surrounded by walls and could have been occupied by the enemy. As a result, the stronghold was ordered to be demolished by Iancu of Hunedoara in the mid-15th century.

Despite its demolition, the remnants of Brassovia Stronghold are still preserved and offer a remarkable panoramic view over the town.

Brasov Sign in Brasov Romania

Mount Tâmpa

Brașov is located at the foot of Mount Tâmpa (Muntele Tâmpa). Walking along the southeastern side of the fortress walls above the Weavers’ Bastion, you will find Aleea Tiberiu Brediceanu – an alley shaded by old trees and dotted with benches. From here, you can hike to the top of the mountain where the original defensive fortress was built.

For those who want to hike to the top, it takes about an hour to follow the ‘red triangle’ marked trail that begins at the cable car boarding point or the yellow triangle marked trail that continues from Brediceanu Alley.

But if you’re not in the mood for hiking, you can take the cable car to the peak of the mountain at an elevation of 3,200 feet.

Rope Street in Brasov Romania

Rope Street

Rope Street is the narrowest street in Romania.

Opera Brasov Romania

The Opera Braşov

Style: neo-Romanian

Built: 1936 to 1938

The Opera Brașov, which was founded in 1953 as a Musical Theatre, now operates within a building built in neo-Romanian style between 1936-1938, initiated by the Junii Brașovecheni Society, as a community center.

National College “Andrei Şaguna” in Brasov Romania

The National College "Andrei Şaguna"

Style: neo-Romanian

Built: 1851 to 1856

The National College “Andrei Şaguna” was the first Romanian gymnasium in Brasov. It was built between 1851 and 1856 by the architect Ştefan Emilian. The foundation stone was laid in the presence of Andrei Şaguna (1809-1873), the Metropolitan Bishop of the Orthodox Bishopric of Transylvania. The construction represents neoclassical architecture in Romania. It was a prestigious educational institution with notable alumni such as Titu Maiorescu, Octavian Goga, and Lucian Blaga. The festive hall of the gymnasium was decorated with allegorical paintings on its ceiling by the painter Iosif Clement in 1862. It hosted the opening of the operetta “Crai Nou” by composer Ciprian Porumbescu. He served as a music teacher at the gymnasium from 1881 to 1883.

Army House in Brasov Romania

The Army House

Architect: Constantin Iotzu

Style: neo-Romanian

Built: 1939 to 1946

Address: Mureşenilor Street 29

Near Central Park and Brașov’s Stronghold, stands The Army House (or Officers Circle) which was built between 1939 and 1946 based on the plans of architect Constantin Iotzu. The building was constructed in the style of a simplified classicism that was characteristic of the interwar modernism movement, with subtle use of carved background elements.

Rector’s Seat of Transylvania University in Brasov Romania

The Rector's Seat of Transilvania University

Architect: Peter Bartesch

Style: neo-Renaissance

Built: 1881 to 1885

Address: The Heroes Boulevard 29

The Rector’s Seat of Transylvania University was built between 1881 and 1885 as the home of the General Pensions Institute. It was designed by Peter Bartesch (1842-1914), who was the first “building engineer” in the area of the ancient fortifications of the “Stronghold.” The building is in a neo-Renaissance style, with allegorical figures adorning the upper facade in a sgraffito technique by painter Lotte Goldschmidt.

Dr. Gheorghe Baiulescu House

Architect: Peter Bartesch

Style: neo-Renaissance

Built: 1888

Address: Heroes Boulevard 33

The Dr. Gheorghe Baiulescu House was constructed in 1888 on the site of the Belt-Makers Bastion. The bastion was situated in the northwestern part of the medieval stronghold and was demolished to make way for the house. Peter Bartesch designed the neo-Renaissance style residence, which served as the home of the first Romanian mayor of Brasov after the Great Union of 1918. Today, the house is a part of the county library and also houses the English Cultural Centre and the French Mediatheque.

George Bariţiu County Library Building in Brasov Romania

The Building of George Bariţiu County Library

Architect: Moritz Wagner and Constantin Nanescu

Style: neo-Romanian

Built: 1927 to 1929

Address: Heroes Boulevard 35

The George Bariţiu County Library Building was constructed between 1927 and 1929 in a neo-Romanian style by architects Moritz Wagner and Constantin Nanescu. It was initially meant to serve as the seat of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and is located in front of Warthe Hill. The library has been operating within the building since 1969, holding a collection of over 280,000 books that cover a wide range of topics. In front of the library stands a statue of George Bariţiu (1812-1893), a historian and journalist who established The Gazette of Transylvania, the first political and informative newspaper for the Romanians living in Ardeal, in 1838 in Brasov.

The Palace of the Artisans’ Association

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Style: Baroque

Built: 1902

Address: Heroes Boulevard 21

On the northeastern fortifications of the old stronghold surrounding the town, the Palace of the Artisans’ Association was constructed in 1902 in a neo-Baroque style. Since 1970, it has hosted The Art Museum, which began as a section of the Regional Museum in 1950. The painting, graphic, and sculpture collections showcase both Romanian modern and contemporary art and Transylvanian art from the 17th to the 20th centuries, with a collection of over 3800 cultural items. The ground floor halls are used for temporary exhibitions and cultural events, such as concerts, book launches, round tables, and conferences.

Theater Building in Brasov Romania

Dramatic Theatre Sică Alexandrescu

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The building of the Dramatic Theatre Sică Alexandrescu has been erected in the area between the Stronghold and the historic suburb of Blumăna towards the east. The theatre was founded in 1946 and has since premiered over 350 plays. Additionally, it has been organizing the Festival of Contemporary Dramaturgy since 1978.

Judicial Building in Brasov Romania

The Palace of Justice

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Style: Art Nouveau

Built: 1900 to 1902

Address: Bulevardul Eroilor 5, Brașov 500007, Romania

City Hall of Brasov Romania

The City Hall

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Where Is the Best Place To Stay In Brasov?

Hotels in Brasov

If you are planning a trip to Brasov, there are plenty of excellent places to stay. However, for the best experience, we strongly recommend staying within the Old Town. The charm and ambiance of Brasov are at their best inside the Old Town, making it the perfect spot for a unique and memorable experience. The castle marker on the map below is the heart of the Old Town with the best restaurants nearby. We suggest staying as close to it as possible, depending on your budget and preferences.

The below interactive map provides hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.

Book your stay now!

City Tours in Brasov

Viewpoints and Panoramic Views of Brasov

Upon reaching the elevated vantage points in Brasov, visitors are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape below. The strategic positioning of the viewpoints allows for a sweeping look over the old town, showcasing a blend of medieval and baroque architectural styles. From these locations, one can admire the iconic Black Church, the historic Council House, and the picturesque city center surrounded by fortifications. Witnessing Brasov from these heights provides a deep appreciation for its rich history and stunning cityscape.

Guided Tours

Want to learn about the history of Brasov with a guide? Book a highly-rated city tour while visiting Brasov!

FAQs About Brasov Architecture

What is the Romanian architecture style?

Romanian architecture is known for its diverse influences, ranging from medieval and Renaissance styles to Ottoman and French architectural elements. Traditional Romanian architecture often features elements such as wooden carvings, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns.

One of the most iconic architectural styles in Romania is the Brâncovenesc style, characterized by its blend of Byzantine, Ottoman, and Western European influences. This style is named after the Brâncoveanu Monastery and is known for its ornate decorations, arched doorways, and columned facades.

Other notable architectural styles in Romania include Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau, each contributing to the rich tapestry of Romanian architectural heritage.

What is the architecture style of Brașov?

Brasov boasts a diverse array of architectural styles, from medieval constructions to modern buildings executed in Renaissance, Neo-Baroque, Classic, Empire, Eclectic, Art-Nouveau, and Romanesque styles.

What is Brașov Romania known for?

Brasov, Romania is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the notable attractions in Brasov include:

1. Black Church: The Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Romania and a symbol of Brasov. It is known for its impressive architecture and houses an impressive collection of historic artifacts.

2. Council Square: Located in the heart of Brasov’s old town, Council Square is a vibrant and bustling square filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is the perfect place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the city.

3. Mount Tampa: Rising above Brasov, Mount Tampa provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding Carpathian Mountains. Visitors can hike or take a cable car to the summit for breathtaking vistas.

4. Bran Castle: Also known as “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle is a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop near Brasov. It is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

In addition to these attractions, Brasov also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring nearby national parks.

How old is the city of Brașov?

In 2010, Brașov celebrated 775 years since its first official attestation. The written proof is found in the Catalogus Ninivensis document from 1234-1241.