This tour was basically through the area of Transylvania that was settled by the Saxons. This group of people mostly from Luxenberg and then later from other parts of Germany, settled Transylvania in various waves, starting from the middle and mid late 12th century until the mid 19th century. For centuries the main task of the Transylvania Saxons was to protect the eastern most frontiers of the former kingdom of Hungary against certain invading migratory Asiatic peoples. They were early on helped by the Teutonic Knights. Later on, they had to further strengthen their hometown and rural settlements against the expanding Ottoman empire. Today only approximately 12,000 Saxons remain in Romania. On the way, we drove through a Romani village. The Romani, previously called gypsies, were originally from India. It was obvious that their village was much poorer than the surrounding villages.

Feldioara Citadel is considered to be the most important fortification built by the Teutonic, Knights in Transylvania. Build in 1211 CE, at about the same time the Saxon colonists began arriving in Transylvania. In 1225, the Teutonic Knights were expelled. The citadel was invaded and destroyed by numerous players just like the rest of Romania. The restoration began in 2013.

Rupea fortress is located on a hill at the crossroads that connected Transylvania, Moldova, and Walachia. It was used originally as a retreat by the Saxons rebelling against King Charles Robert of Hungary.

In Viscri is a well preserved Saxon peasant fortress, which includes within its walls one of the few Romanesque church halls of the 13th century. There are many fortified churches built by peasants around Brasov. It was an adventure climbing to the top of the tower on very narrow stairs but well worth the view.

The following pictures were taken on the way up and at the top of the tower.

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Sighisoara is a municipality in Transylvania, with a population of 28,000. It is a popular tourist destination for its well preserved old town, which is listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

On the way back to Brasov, we made a quick stop at Saint George monastery. It was a beautiful orthodox church. There are no pews in the church so people stand through the service which could be as much as three hours long.