Medias
Located between Sighișoara and Sibiu, Mediaș is one of the oldest towns in the Transylvanian plateau. While its industrial development in recent years has shaped its identity, the town continues to preserve significant historical and cultural landmarks.
Historical Background
Mediaș has a documented history dating back to the 13th century, first mentioned in 1267 under the name “Medies.” However, evidence suggests an earlier presence as an Iron Age and Roman settlement. The town’s strategic location along trade routes contributed to its early development as a commercial hub. In 1359, it was the first locality in the Târnave region to receive the status of “civitas,” marking its importance within the region.
In response to Ottoman incursions during the 15th century, the community fortified the town. Between 1440 and 1534, three concentric defensive walls were built by order of King Matthias Corvinus. By 1736, the fortifications included three main gates and 19 defensive towers. The town played a key role in regional defense and was an important administrative and military center throughout the centuries.
St. Margaret’s Church
A key landmark in Mediaș is the Evangelical Church of St. Margaret, first recorded in 1414. It is surrounded by defensive walls, making it a fortified church complex. The church features the Trumpeters’ Tower, standing at 68.5 meters, with a noticeable tilt of 2.29 meters. Various explanations exist for its inclination, ranging from structural issues to local legends.
Inside the church, visitors can find Anatolian carpets, frescoes, and a Baroque organ. The church also houses Gothic altarpieces, including a depiction of Vienna dating back to the late 15th century. The church was a significant religious and cultural center, often hosting important ceremonies and gatherings for the Saxon community.
Historical Figures
Mediaș has been associated with notable historical events. Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula, was held prisoner in the Maria Tower in 1467. His imprisonment marked a significant episode in the town’s history, as local legends and stories surrounding his stay continue to attract visitors. In 1576, Stephen Báthory was crowned King of Poland in the church, further solidifying Mediaș’s role in regional and European history.
Defensive Structures
Several towers within the fortifications were maintained by various guilds. Two notable examples include:
- Tailors’ Tower: Integrated into the Town Hall in 1616, featuring defensive elements such as openings for pouring boiling oil. The tower served both defensive and administrative purposes.
- Goldsmiths’ Tower (Forkesch Tower): Built between 1494 and 1534, this tower features a wooden watch gallery and narrow openings for archers. It was one of the main points of defense in the town’s fortification system.
The fortifications also included a network of bastions and gates designed to protect the town’s inhabitants during sieges and invasions.
Local Crafts and Wine Production
Mediaș developed as a center of craftsmanship and trade, with the earliest recorded guilds being those of tailors and cloth merchants in the mid-15th century. The town is also recognized for producing Romania’s first crystal and enamel products. The crafts and trades flourished under the guidance of Saxon settlers, who brought their expertise and traditions to the region.
The surrounding region of Târnave is well-known for its white wines, which have been cultivated here for centuries. The wines were noted by Johann Honterus in the 16th century and even mentioned in Bram Stoker’s novel, “Dracula.” The area’s favorable climate and soil conditions make it ideal for viticulture, and Mediaș has remained a significant center of wine production.
Mediaș Today
The town has maintained its historical charm while embracing modern developments. The central square, Piata Regele Ferdinand I, is home to the Schullerhaus, built in 1588, which once housed the Transylvanian Diet and now serves as a hotel. The square is a focal point of the town, featuring well-preserved buildings that reflect Mediaș’s rich architectural heritage.
Visitors to Mediaș can explore its narrow streets, medieval walls, and local museums that offer insights into the town’s past. Events and festivals celebrating the town’s heritage are held throughout the year, providing an opportunity to experience the unique culture of the region.
Mediaș offers a quiet yet insightful glimpse into Transylvania’s past, with well-preserved architecture and local traditions still evident today. Visitors can explore its historical landmarks while enjoying the region’s renowned wines.
Your Guide in Transylvania has been proudly providing travel and tourism services across Transylvania since 2010. With a focus on history and culture, our curated tour packages are designed to satisfy your desire for exploration and connection to the past. We aim to offer you an unforgettable journey, capturing the essence of medieval times while ensuring all the comforts of modern travel.
For more details, visit our day tours or extended tours offer from the menu above. We look forward to helping you uncover the magic of Transylvania, anytime throughout the year.