© 2009 Brasov Life
Unde mergem?
Ce facem?
Brasov is located in the central part of Romania, about 166 km from Bucharest. It is surrounded by the Southern Carpathians, and is the Southern gateway into the Transylvania region.
Brasov is one of the largest cities in Romania with a population of approx 280,000. There are basically 2 parts of Brasov; the pretty historic Saxon old town and its square situated beneath Mount Tampa and then the surrounding concrete jungles of tower blocks and factories.
The old town is one of the best preserved old towns in Europe with splendid architecture
and old fortifications and is well worth taking a few days to explore.The city has
an amazing history with influences from Germany, the Austria-
The city was founded in 1211 by Teutonic Knights and was developed by the Saxons. The Saxons living in Brasov were mainly involved in trade and crafts. The location of the city at the intersection of trade routes linking the Ottoman Empire and Western Europe, together with certain tax exemptions, allowed the Saxon merchants to obtain considerable wealth and exert a strong political influence. They also contributed a great deal to the architectural flavour of the city.
The fortifications around the city were erected and continually expanded, with several
towers maintained by different craftsmen's guilds, according to medieval custom.
Part of the fortification ensemble was recently restored using UNESCO funds, and
other projects are ongoing. At least two entrances to the city, Poarta Ecaterinei
(or Ekaterinentor) and Poarta Schei are still in existence. The city center is marked
by the mayor's former office building (Casa Sfatului) and the surrounding square
(piaţa), which includes one of the oldest buildings in Braşov, the Hirscher Haus,
owned by a wealthy merchant. Nearby is the "Black Church" (Biserica Neagră), which
some claim to be the largest Gothic style church in South-
Brasov basically became a German colony and the Romanians were denied several privileges by the Saxon settlers. They were no longer recognized as citizens of the city, and as such they were no longer able to continue to practice their crafts and operate their businesses. Additionally, their primary religion (Orthodox) was not officially recognized throughout Transylvania, especially during and after the 15th century. The Romanians were not allowed to live in the city and they mainly lived in the Schei district, which also well worth a visit. To enter the city they would have to pay a tariff at one of the main gates which are still visible today.
Now Brasov has entered the modern times with Romania now a member of the EU, last few years has seen considerable investment and growth within the Romanian economy which also Brasov has benefited from.
The city has seen large shopping centres being built around the city and Brasov has also been seen to be a magnet for foreign investors who have been investing in many of the new apartments which have been springing up all over the city.
Brasov is a popular tourist destination for many foreign tourists looking to explore Romania but also its very popular with Romanians.
The town square is thriving with life during the summer with open markets and numerous restaurants scattered down the streets leading onto the square.
The mountains and forests surrounding Brasov are bustling with wildlife including one of the largest populations of brown bears in Europe, wild cats and wolves. Romania’s largest ski resort (Poiana Brasov) is situated on the outskirts of the city and Bran castle “allegedly” home of the infamous Dracula is only 20 minutes away.
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