Rasnov Citadel Guide
Rasnov Citadel: A Medieval Fortress with Breathtaking Views Guide
Rasnov Citadel, perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the town of Rasnov, is a must-see for any visitor to the Bran area. This impressive medieval fortress offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Bucegi Mountains and the Bran Valley. Explore its well-preserved walls, towers, and courtyards, and step back in time to experience the history and resilience of this remarkable stronghold. The citadel's history dates back to the 13th century when it was built by Teutonic Knights to protect the local population from invading Tartars and other enemies. Over the centuries, it served as a refuge for villagers during numerous sieges and conflicts. The citadel was designed as a self-sufficient community, with its own school, church, and even a well that took over 30 years to dig. While never actually conquered, it was eventually abandoned in the 19th century. Today, visitors can explore the citadel's grounds, climb the towers for spectacular views, and visit the small museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the citadel's history. You can also find craft shops selling traditional Romanian souvenirs. While there are no specific culinary traditions directly linked to the citadel itself, the town of Rasnov offers a variety of restaurants serving traditional Romanian cuisine, such as *mămăligă* (polenta), *sarmale* (cabbage rolls), and *mici* (grilled minced meat rolls).
Transportation
From Bran, you can take a local bus or taxi to Rasnov. From Rasnov's city center, you can either walk uphill to the citadel (approximately 30 minutes, steep climb) or take a tourist train that departs regularly from the main square.