The Council Tower of Sibiu
Center Region
The Council Tower of Sibiu, known locally as Turnul Sfatului, stands prominently between the Great Square and the Small Square in Sibiu's historic center. Originally constructed in the 13th century as a gate tower for the city's second fortification belt, it has undergone multiple reconstructions that altered its initial form. Throughout its history, the tower has served various roles including a grain storage facility, fire observation post, prison, and even a natural sciences museum. Architecturally, the tower features a distinctive bulb-shaped roof added in the 19th century, replacing earlier pyramid-shaped roofs. Today, it houses exhibitions and provides visitors with panoramic views of Sibiu and the surrounding Făgăraș mountains from its upper levels. The tower is considered the iconic symbol of Sibiu and is frequently depicted on local souvenirs and promotional materials, reflecting its cultural significance especially after Sibiu was named European Capital of Culture in 2007.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore the tower during daylight hours to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Sibiu and the Făgăraș mountains. Tickets for exhibitions can be purchased on-site; however, checking for any scheduled events or temporary exhibitions in advance is recommended. The tower is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from both the Great and Small Squares. Visitors interested in history should consider combining the visit with nearby fortification sites. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups.
Interesting facts
- •The tower originally served as a gate in the second fortification belt of medieval Sibiu.
- •In 1585, the upper floors collapsed, tragically burying painter Johann David who was working inside.
- •A Latin inscription above the passage dates the tower's completion to August 3, 1588.
- •The tower's roof shape evolved from a pointed pyramid to the current bulbous form in the 19th century.
- •It housed a medieval exhibit section of the Brukenthal Museum between 1962 and 1998.
- •Sibiu, with the tower as its symbol, was the European Capital of Culture in 2007.
History
The Council Tower was built in the 13th century as part of Sibiu's second fortification ring, serving initially as a gate tower.
It suffered several reconstructions, notably after the upper floors collapsed in 1585, burying a painter working inside.
The tower was rebuilt between 1586 and 1588 and later modified in the 18th and 19th centuries, including the addition of its current bulb-shaped roof and an extra floor.
It served diverse functions over the centuries, from military defense to storage and cultural uses.
The tower was fully restored in 1961-1962 and has since been used for exhibitions and as a viewpoint.
Place Guide
The Passage Between the Squares13th century
The Council Tower features a passageway connecting the Great Square (Piața Mare) and the Small Square (Piața Mică), historically serving as a gate in the city's fortification system.
Upper Floors and Viewing Platform1588 reconstruction; 19th-century modifications
The upper floors, rebuilt after the 1585 collapse, now serve as exhibition spaces and a viewpoint offering panoramic views of Sibiu and the Făgăraș Mountains.
Bulb-Shaped Roof1824-1826
The tower's distinctive bulb-shaped roof was added during the 1824-1826 reconstruction, replacing earlier pyramid-shaped roofs.
Contact
Phone: 0369 405 253
