For our second hotel stop, we chose Sibiu, perfectly situated for the sights we wanted to see and intriguing in its own right.
A Brief History of Sibiu
Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Sibiu is a city dating back to at least the 12th century, and likely earlier. First mentioned in 1192, it quickly grew into a thriving medieval trading hub, boasting 19 trade guilds by 1376 and over 40 by the late 1500s. Known as Hermannstadt in German, Sibiu was the easternmost ethnic German city in Europe for much of its history and the largest of the “seven cities” – Siebenbürgen.
Sibiu’s significance soared in 1692 when it became the capital of Transylvania under the Habsburg Empire. The city evolved into a cultural and political crossroads. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Sibiu emerged as a key center for the Romanian national movement.
In the 20th century, Sibiu experienced major transformations. After World War I, it became part of Romania, and its once-dominant German population began to dwindle, particularly after World War II and the 1989 revolution.
Things to do
Explore Sibiu Old Town
The Old Town is the heart of Sibiu and is divided into two distinct areas:
- Upper Town: This area is home to the city’s major landmarks, including the Clock Tower, the Bridge of Lies, the Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral, as well as other historical buildings.
- Lower Town: Beyond the old city walls lies a charming maze of old houses, winding back alleys, and plenty of coffee shops and restaurants. Several stairways connect the Upper and Lower Towns, so take your time exploring both.
Houses with eyes
One of Sibiu’s unique features is the “houses with eyes.” The Gothic-style buildings, reflecting Hungarian-German influences, often have small attic windows set into their heavy tiled roofs. These windows resemble eyelids, giving the impression that the buildings are watching over the city—a humorous and somewhat eerie sensation.
Bridge of Lies
The Bridge of Lies is shrouded in legends. One tale suggests that the bridge vibrates and makes noise whenever someone tells a lie. Another legend tells of dishonest merchants being thrown off the bridge in medieval times. There’s even a story about medieval pre-wedding meetings where non-virgin brides-to-be risked a similar fate.
Evangelical Cathedral
The Evangelical Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, is a stunning landmark both inside and out. What makes it extra special is the opportunity to climb its tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Sibiu and its surroundings.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
The Holy Trinity Cathedral is easily one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches I’ve ever visited. The interior is opulent, with intricate decorations and a lavish display of gold that left me in awe. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Sibiu.
Fortifications
Sibiu was once a fortified city, and remnants of its old walls can still be found along the edges of the Old Town. Walking along these walls, we discovered several medieval towers that have withstood the test of time, offering a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.
