Râșnov Fortress
Center Region
Râșnov Fortress is a medieval Fliehburg-type fortress located in Râșnov, Brașov County, Romania. Built between 1211 and 1225, it served as a refuge for local villagers during invasions, particularly those coming through the Bran Pass. The fortress was jointly garrisoned by Romanian and Saxon communities, reflecting its regional importance. Architecturally, it features stone and brick walls, wood gates, and tiled roofs to prevent fire damage. Its walls stand approximately 5 meters high, with the southern wall being the thickest. A unique feature is the 146-meter deep well dug between 1623 and 1642 to provide water during sieges, linked to a local legend involving Turkish prisoners. Historically, the fortress resisted multiple attacks, including a Tatar incursion in 1335 and an Ottoman siege in 1421. It was conquered only once in 1612 due to water shortage before the well was built. The fortress was last used as a refuge during the 1848-1849 Hungarian revolution and was abandoned in 1850. Restoration efforts began in the mid-20th century and continue to preserve this emblematic site, which offers visitors a glimpse into Transylvania's medieval defensive strategies and community resilience.
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Tip: The best time to visit Râșnov Fortress is during the warmer months when the weather is pleasant for exploring the extensive walls and well. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Visitors should wear comfortable footwear due to uneven terrain and stairs. Guided tours provide valuable historical context and enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The fortress is accessible by local transport from Brașov, making it convenient for day trips.
Interesting facts
- •The fortress was never conquered except once in 1612 due to lack of water.
- •The 146-meter well inside the fortress was dug over 19 years to ensure water supply during sieges.
- •Prisoners allegedly dug the well and inscribed verses from the Koran on its walls, which are still visible.
- •The fortress walls are covered with roof tiles to prevent damage from fire during attacks.
- •Râșnov Fortress was part of a defensive system protecting Transylvanian villages from invasions through the Bran Pass.
History
Archaeological evidence suggests fortifications existed on the site since prehistoric and Dacian times.
The current medieval fortress was likely built between 1211 and 1225 during the Teutonic Knights' rule in Burzenland.
Its first documented mention dates to 1335 when it withstood a Tatar attack.
The fortress faced its first Ottoman siege in 1421.
In 1612, it was conquered due to a water shortage before the construction of a deep well between 1623 and 1642.
It suffered damage from fire in 1718 and an earthquake in 1802.
The fortress served as a refuge during the 1821 Wallachian uprising and the 1848-1849 Hungarian revolution.
Its defensive role ended in 1850, after which it fell into ruin until restoration began in the 20th century.
Place Guide
Fortress Walls and Towers13th century
The fortress walls reach about 5 meters in height and are constructed from stone and bricks, with wooden gates and platforms. The southern wall is the thickest, measuring up to 1.5 meters wide. Roof tiles cover the walls and towers to protect against fire during sieges.
The Deep Well1623-1642
A 146-meter deep well dug between 1623 and 1642 to provide a reliable water source during sieges. According to legend, Turkish prisoners dug it and inscribed verses from the Koran on its walls, which remain visible today.
