Brașov – detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Brașov with descriptions, guides, and maps.
The City of Brașov (Romania)
Brașov (Romanian: Braşov; Latin: Brassovia or Corona) is a city in Romania and a popular resort. Located in the central part of the country in the southeastern region of the historical Transylvania, nestled in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains. Brașov is one of the most beautiful cities in Romania, with a charming medieval core and several remarkable landmarks, often referred to as the “Romanian Salzburg.” It is renowned for its atmospheric old streets, historic Gothic architecture, and breathtaking romantic ambiance, blending stunning mountain landscapes with medieval history and significant Saxon influence.
Geography and Climate
Brașov is situated in the heart of Romania, surrounded by the Southern Carpathians. The city is located 170 km north of Bucharest and 380 km from the Black Sea coast. Brașov has a temperate continental climate with cool summers and fairly cold winters.
Practical Information
- Population: over 250,000 (the seventh-largest city in Romania by population).
- Area: 267.32 km².
- Currency: Romanian leu.
- Language: Romanian.
- Time zone: UTC +2, UTC +3 in summer.
- Brașov is one of Romania’s most visited cities, thanks to the famous Poiana Brașov ski resort, which is essentially part of the city.
- The nearest international airport is in Bucharest, a three-hour bus or train ride away. Brașov also has direct rail connections with Vienna and Budapest.
- Most brand-name stores are concentrated around Republic Square and in shopping centers like Unirea, Eliana, and Coresi Shopping Resort. For affordable groceries, visit the Astra Market (Piaţa Astra) or chain supermarkets like Lidl, Penny Market, XXL Discount, Carrefour, and Kaufland.
- Brașov is one of the safest cities in Romania.
Hotels in the City
History
Brașov was founded in 1211 as a fortress of the Teutonic Knights under the name Kronstadt. It was first mentioned under its current name in 1256. Throughout its medieval history, the city changed names several times: Brasso, Stephanopolis, Kronstadt. Brașov was established by German settlers, so the Saxon influence is particularly strong here.
Thanks to its strategic location between Wallachia and Moldavia, the city quickly became one of Transylvania’s economic and cultural centers. Brașov also holds a prominent place in Romanian history: the first book in Romanian was printed here, and the first Romanian school was established.
Landmarks
Brașov boasts a splendid historic center built in a traditional German style, reminiscent of old towns in Western and Central Europe. It includes several fascinating medieval landmarks: from fortress walls and towers that once encircled the city (now partially preserved) to beautiful old churches and enchanting cobblestone streets that fully capture the medieval atmosphere.
The original medieval fortification system included multiple defensive walls, 27 towers, 8 bastions, moats, and ponds. At the time, Brașov was one of the most fortified cities in Transylvania, reflecting its historical significance. The best-preserved structures are the Black and White Towers, which were part of the Lower Walls and are easily accessible on foot from the old town.
Interestingly, German settlers who governed the city in the Middle Ages prohibited Romanians from settling inside its fortress walls.
The Black and White Towers date back to the 15th century and are imposing fortifications. The Black Tower got its name not from its color but after being struck by lightning and catching fire.
Near the Upper Walls are the medieval Catherine’s Gate, built in the 16th century. This stunning structure is the only surviving original entrance to the Old Town. In the Middle Ages, Brașov had three main city gates.
Not far from Catherine’s Gate stands the Șchei Gate, built in 1827-1828. It separates the Old Town from the Șchei district, which was the Romanian quarter of Brașov during medieval times.
The most famous landmark in Brașov is the Black Church, considered a prime example of Gothic architecture. This religious structure was built between 1385 and 1477 by the German community and is the largest medieval Christian church in Southeastern Europe. The church can accommodate up to 5,000 people, houses one of Europe’s largest organs, and has the most extensive collection of Turkish carpets.
The Black Church got its name after a fire blackened its walls.
The oldest religious building in Brașov is the fortified St. Bartholomew Church, dating back to the 13th century.
Another significant sacred monument is the Orthodox St. Nicholas Church, founded in the 14th century. This building has undergone many changes over time but has always played a crucial role for the Romanian community in old Brașov.
Council Square is the heart of old Brașov and has been the city’s central space since medieval times. At its center stands the historic Town Hall building with a 15th-century tower.
Brașov’s Old Town is famous for its charming historic streets, perfect for leisurely strolls. One of the most beautiful streets is Strada Lunga, built in the Middle Ages and lined with centuries-old houses and monuments. The most notable is Strada Sforii, one of the narrowest streets in Europe (measuring just 110-135 cm wide).
Near Brașov, several magnificent castles can be found, including the legendary Bran Castle and the fairytale-like Peleș.
Bran Castle is one of Romania’s most famous landmarks, largely due to its association with Bram Stoker’s Dracula myth, inspired by the historical figure Vlad the Impaler. This majestic structure, built on a high cliff, is shrouded in mystery and legends. The castle dates back to the 14th century, constructed on the site of a Teutonic Knights’ fortress from the early 13th century. Its narrow, winding staircases lead through numerous wooden rooms, many connected by secret underground passages, housing exquisite collections of furniture, weapons, and armor from the 14th-19th centuries.
Peleș is a masterpiece of German Renaissance architecture and one of Europe’s most beautiful castles. Built in the 19th century, it sits in a picturesque location at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains.
Brașov: Transylvania’s Gem Between Past and Present
Brașov is a true gem of Romania, where medieval architecture seamlessly blends with the majestic Carpathian landscapes. Once a vital trade hub between Wallachia and Moldavia, this city now captivates visitors with its unique charm. The Saxon cultural influence, evident in its buildings, harmoniously combines with Romanian traditions, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Walking along the narrow Strada Sforii, touching the ancient walls of the Black Church, or admiring the view from the Black Tower, you can feel history speaking through the centuries. And if you want to delve into myths and legends, Bran Castle is always ready to share its mystical tales of Vlad the Impaler.
This “Romanian Salzburg” is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Brașov is not just a city—it’s a living history that breathes, evolves, yet retains its authenticity despite the passage of time. So pack your bags—Transylvania’s pearl awaits you.
