Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Romania lies Valea Viilor, a charming village steeped in history and tradition. One of the highlights of this quaint town is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valea Viilor Fortified Church. This Church, dating back to the 14th century, holds stories of battles fought and won, cultural influence, and architectural grandeur that transports you back to medieval times.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history of the Valea Viilor Fortified Church and its significance in the community. We’ll also delve into its stunning architecture and artistic elements that make it stand out from other fortified churches. Lastly, we will explore the rich history of Valea Viilor itself and how this small village has maintained its traditions through time.

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The Valea Viilor Fortified Church was built in the 14th century on the site of an earlier Romanesque chapel. Originally a Roman Catholic church dedicated to Saint Peter, it was fortified in the 16th century to protect the local community against Ottoman invasions.

During the Ottoman invasions, the Church served as a safe haven for the villagers, offering protection and shelter from the marauding armies. Its sturdy walls and defensive towers were crucial in fending off attacks and safeguarding the local community.

The Valea Viilor Fortified Church has played a significant role in the community throughout its long history. As a place of worship, it has provided spiritual guidance and solace to the villagers for centuries. But its importance extends beyond just being a religious institution.

The cultural impact of Valea Viilor Fortified Church extends beyond its historical significance. As a large church in a small Romanian village, the Church has influenced the surrounding area in various ways. It has served as a gathering place for the community, hosting events and festivals celebrating the village’s traditions and heritage.

There is a small museum near the ticket office.

The fortified Church in Valea Viilor played a crucial role in the development of the village. In addition to providing spiritual guidance and protection from invaders, its presence attracted tourists from around the world, bringing economic opportunities to the area.

Throughout the years, the Church has undergone extensive renovations and restorations, preserving its Gothic architecture and impressive frescoes. The renovations have restored the Church’s grandeur and ensured the longevity of this historic treasure. These efforts have also contributed to the overall cultural and architectural landscape of the region.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Valea Viilor Fortified Church is its remarkable architecture. The Church seamlessly combines elements of Gothic and Renaissance styles, creating a unique blend that is truly awe-inspiring. From its towering spires to its intricate carvings, every detail showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the builders.

The fortified Church of Valea Viilor, built in the 15th century for protection, boasts impressive fortifications. The thick walls, buttresses, arches, and iron gates made the Church a formidable fortress.

You can walk around the entire perimeter of the fortifications under the elevated covered portion of the walls. Additionally, the strategically placed loopholes allowed defenders to shoot at attackers from within.

The church has two towers. One in the front and one in the back. The tower in the rear can be accessed from inside the church. The clock tower in the front is accessible from the outside.

The Choir Tower, which is characteristic of the fortified churches of the Târnava plateau, is higher than any other tower in the region. It has three defensive levels, each of them having seven narrow loopholes. On the upper level, the buttresses are united into arches, camouflaging the throwing holes on the perimeter of the choir.

The clock tower is very impressive. It is large and you can climb it. The stone steps in the lower portion are very unique. The way they are constructed makes them appear to float. There are 6 flights of wooden stairs in the upper part that are easy to climb. The views from the top of the clock tower are worth the effort.

The exterior of the Valea Viilor Fortified Church is a sight to behold. Its well-preserved brick walls stand as a testament to its enduring beauty. The intricate brick arches add to the Church’s charm. These Gothic architectural elements of the Church’s exterior exude visual appeal and historical significance.

The interior of the Church is not as impressive as some of the fortified churches. Interestingly, the wood floor is not raised but, instead, sits directly on the soil. We visited after heavy rains and the wood boards were soaked through.

Notwithstanding, the chancel of the Church is a masterpiece, with intricate artwork and decorations that showcase the craftsmanship of the time.

As you explore further, you will find religious symbols and icons that embellish the nave. The walls of the Church are adorned with frescoes depicting biblical scenes, bringing to life the stories of the faith. These artistic details serve as a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of Valea Viilor church.

Amongst the artistic objects, we have to mention the Baroque altar from 1779, a piece of art created by Stephan Folbarth, a sculptor from Sighişoara, the Baroque baldachin from 1746, and a Romanesque baptistery from the fourteenth century.

The tabernacle is decorated with the motif of “Vir dolorum,” which is in correlation with the dated tabernacles in Bazna (1504) and Ighişul Nou (1491). Under the bas-relief, “Christus Salvator Mundi” is written in small Gothic style letters.

The pipe organ is the work of master Melchior Achs from 1807-1808, and in 1908, it was repaired by the manufacturer Einschenk from Braşov.

There are a few hotels near Valea Viilor. Because of their low number, most people stay in Sighisoara or Brasov and take a tour to Valea Viilor. The castle marker on the map below is Valea Viilor Fortified Church. You can change the dates, set your preferences, and zoom in and out to explore the area hotels.

Plan your visit by considering transportation options like airports, train stations, and bus routes. Whether coming from Sighisoara, Brasov, or Bucharest, explore the beautiful Romanian countryside on your journey to this hidden gem of Transylvania.

Here are some great options for a private tour to Valea Viilor! In addition to the options below, we have used GetTranfer to book private transfers and taxis and recommend it as well.

If you travel by car, Valea Viilor is 52 km (32 miles) from Sighisoara, 48 km (30 miles) from Sibiu, and 170 km (106 miles) from Brasov.

Parking in Valea Viilor is convenient and hassle-free. The village offers ample parking spaces near the fortified Church, allowing visitors to easily explore and soak in the beauty of this historical site. Whether you arrive by car or take public transportation, finding a parking spot will not be a challenge.

If you travel by public transportation, the train station in Medias, located approximately 14 km (9 miles) from Valea Viilor, is your ending point. From there, you can catch a bus or hail a taxi to the Church. The short distance ensures a quick journey. To schedule a taxi in advance, we recommend GetTransfer.

There is a ticket office for the Church. Apparently, there are regular opening hours from July through September. However, we had to contact the keyholder to get access when we visited in June.

The entry fee is 10 lei per person.

The small village of Valea Viilor in the heart of Transylvania holds a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Its centerpiece is a Gothic church, surrounded by vineyards and offering a glimpse into traditional Romanian village life. Explore the old town with its charming architecture and narrow streets.

Valea Viilor is steeped in history, with its origins dating back to the 13th century. This small village nestled in the heart of Transylvania has seen the rise and fall of empires, witnessed countless battles, and stood as a testament to the resilience of its people.

As you wander through the streets of this quaint village, you can feel the weight of history in each cobblestone. The Sommergrasse, Wintergrasse, and Kotgrasse intersect in a small square, where the Lutheran church and fortress proudly stand. This picturesque setting takes you back to a time when life was simpler yet full of challenges.

Today, Valea Viilor welcomes visitors from all over the world who come to admire its rich history and soak in its tranquil atmosphere. As you explore the village, you will be greeted by friendly locals who are more than happy to share stories about their ancestors and the hardships they endured.

As you wander through the streets of this quaint village, you can feel the weight of history in each cobblestone.

The village is concentrated around three streets: the Sommergrasse, the Wintergrasse, and the Kotgrasse (Summer Street, Winter Street, and Muddy Street).

The streets intersect in a small square, where the Church proudly stands. This picturesque setting takes you back to a time when life was simpler yet full of challenges.

Today, Valea Viilor welcomes visitors from all over the world who come to admire its rich history and soak in its tranquil atmosphere. As you explore the village, you will be greeted by friendly locals who are more than happy to share stories about their ancestors and the hardships they endured.

When visiting Valea Viilor Fortified Church, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to make the most of your experience.

Be sure to check the opening hours of the Church beforehand as they can vary.

Plan ahead and familiarize yourself with essential information about the village and church to make the most of your time there.

Consider visiting early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy the village and fortified church in peace.

While exploring Valea Viilor village, take the time to stroll along its charming streets and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Admire the traditional Saxon houses with their colorful facades and well-preserved architecture. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the artisans’ workshops where you can witness traditional crafts being practiced.

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes. The climb up the tower is a bit uneven!

Valea Viilor is a small village and, as a result, it may be difficult to find lunch.

Valea Viilor is definitely worth a visit if you’re interested in exploring a charming and authentic Romanian village. Located in Transylvania, Valea Viilor is known for its well-preserved rural architecture, traditional way of life, and beautiful landscapes. The village is home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortified church, which is a must-visit attraction. You can also wander through the narrow streets, visit local craftsmen, and even stay in a guesthouse to experience the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the peaceful countryside, Valea Viilor offers a unique and memorable experience.

Transylvania is home to numerous churches, each with its own unique history and architectural style. While it is difficult to provide an exact number, some estimates suggest that there are over 200 fortified churches in Transylvania alone. These churches not only serve as places of worship but also stand as testaments to the region’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. From Saxon fortified churches like the one in Valea Viilor, to Gothic masterpieces like the Black Church in Brasov, Transylvania’s churches offer visitors a glimpse into the region’s past and a chance to connect with its spiritual traditions.

The fortification of churches in Transylvania served multiple purposes throughout history. One of the main reasons was to protect the local communities from frequent invasions and raids. During the Middle Ages, Transylvania was located at the crossroads of several empires and faced constant threats from Ottoman and Tatar invasions. Fortifying churches provided a means of defense for the villagers, as they could seek refuge within the fortified walls during times of danger.

There are over 200 fortified churches in Transylvania. Some of the best include:

• Alma Vii
• Biertan
• Cloasterf
• Copsa Mare
• Crit
• Darjiu
• Malancrav
• Mosna
• Richis
• Saschiz
• Valea Viilor
• Viscri

For more information, check out our article Explore Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania with suggested day trips from Brasov and Sighisoara.