Sibiu Medieval Town

Sibiu, a captivating city nestled in the heart of Transylvania, has a history as rich and colorful as the region itself. Colonized in the mid-12th century by Saxons from the Rhineland-Moselle area, Sibiu emerged at the crossroads of cultures, shaped by centuries of resilience, creativity, and progress. Originally called Cibinium, the settlement was first mentioned in a document from Pope Celestine III in 1191. By 1223, it had become known as Hermannstadt, named after the legendary knight Hermann who was believed to have fortified the early settlement.

During the Middle Ages, Sibiu evolved into a thriving urban center, known for its fortifications and well-organized guilds. By the 13th century, the Saxon settlers had begun to organize themselves into administrative units known as “seats,” with Sibiu as the leading seat among them. In 1355, these seats united to form the Province of Sibiu, further strengthening their influence in Transylvania. The guilds played a crucial role in the city’s prosperity; by 1366, Sibiu was already a recognized city, home to numerous craftsmen, including tanners, masons, and blacksmiths.

Sibiu’s fortifications were expanded over centuries, ultimately encompassing four main defense walls, built between the 12th and 15th centuries. The first wall enclosed what is today Huet Square, surrounding the parish church. After the Mongol invasion of 1241, which devastated much of the town, a second wall was erected to include the Small Square. By the mid-14th century, the third wall was constructed, fortified with twelve towers and spanning over four kilometers, encircling the entire Upper Town. Finally, a fourth defense ring extended into the Lower Town, incorporating palisades and additional fortified towers. This extensive network of fortifications made Sibiu nearly impenetrable, safeguarding it against numerous Ottoman sieges.

The guilds were the heart and soul of Sibiu’s economy and defense. The first guild—that of the tanners—was attested in 1367, and by the late 18th century, there were over 40 guilds in operation. These guilds not only fostered craftsmanship but also defended the city, with each guild assigned to guard specific towers or gates, such as the Butchers guarding the Cisnădie Gate and the Shoemakers guarding the Ocna Gate. The city’s defense was truly a collective endeavor, and the sense of duty and pride among the craftsmen and journeymen was palpable.

Sibiu’s economic activities were diverse and far-reaching. The city was a major exporter of weapons, jewelry, and clothing, while importing exotic goods such as silk, pepper, and olive oil. Throughout the late Middle Ages, Sibiu’s craftsmen also engaged in cultural exchanges, often hosting young journeymen from Wallachia and Moldavia who honed their skills in the city’s workshops. These journeymen, known as “calfe,” lived a life of strict discipline, forbidden from marrying or incurring debts during their training period of three years and a day, which symbolized dedication to their craft.

In the centuries that followed, Sibiu saw continued growth and transformation. During the Habsburg period, for one century, it served as the capital of Transylvania from 1692 to 1791. Under the guidance of Samuel von Brukenthal, who served as governor, the city took on a European flair, boasting cultural and educational institutions such as the Brukenthal Museum and the first theater in Transylvania, established in 1788. The Brukenthal Museum, founded by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, is the oldest and finest art museum in Romania. Its first collections were established in 1790, making it three years older than the Louvre Museum in Paris. The introduction of modern infrastructure, like the electric tramway in 1904, helped propel Sibiu into the 20th century, marking its transition from a medieval stronghold to a modern European city.

Besides its historical attractions, Sibiu is also home to two unique and very important museums in Southeast Europe. The Astra Ethnographic Museum, located in the middle of a dense forest called Dumbrava and surrounded by a beautiful lake, is the second largest open-air museum in the world and the largest in Europe, spanning 250 acres. It offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional rural life of Romania, showcasing an extensive collection of traditional houses, workshops, and tools from different regions of the country. The Brukenthal Museum, as mentioned earlier, is a must-see for art lovers, housing an impressive collection of European art, and standing as a testament to Sibiu’s cultural prominence.

If all of this has not yet convinced you to visit this enchanting city, consider that in 2007, Sibiu was designated as the European Capital of Culture, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Additionally, in 2014, the Old City of Sibiu was ranked as “Europe’s 8th most idyllic place to live” by Forbes, recognizing its charm, livability, and beautiful surroundings.

Despite the passage of time, Sibiu has retained much of its old-world charm. Today, the city’s well-preserved historic center, with its cobbled streets, medieval towers, and stunning architecture, offers visitors a glimpse into its storied past. The Evangelical Church, with its impressive Gothic architecture and the largest organ in Romania, stands as a testament to Sibiu’s enduring legacy of faith and culture. The city remains proud of its Saxon heritage, a heritage that helped shape not only its skyline but also its spirit of resilience and innovation.

To truly appreciate the history and charm of Sibiu, there is no better way than exploring it with a knowledgeable local guide. A guided tour with Your Guide in Transylvania will take you beyond the surface, unveiling the stories, legends, and hidden corners that make Sibiu one of the most fascinating cities in Romania. Book a tour today and step back in time to experience the magic of Sibiu firsthand.