The city was founded sometime in the late of 12th century by rich Saxon merchants. Its strategic importance gradually grew and the fortifications were improved. Sighisoara is well known because of Vlad Tepes or Vlad III the Impaler (known as Dracula) was born here around the year of 1430.

Historical center is located on a hill, and it is thoroughly fortified. From the train station it takes for about 15 minutes to get there. At the courtyard there is the landmark of the city – Clock Tower, a 64m high tower built in the 13th century where is now museum. There is also Dracula’s family house, which is now one of the best (and most expensive) local restaurant.

There is a medieval festival in the courtyard and city events.

What else you can see in Sighisoara?

• Sighisoara Citadel – a 12th Century Saxon edifice, is the historic center of the city. Still inhabited, the citadel is listed as a World Heritage Site
• Weapon Museum – next to Vlad’s birthplace. Very small, but it contains an interesting selection of medieval weapons (swords, arrows, etc.)
• Covered Staircase – a very old stone staircase with a wooden roof along the whole span. This leads up to the Church on the Hill and the cemetery
• Church on the Hill – contains many frescoes and a crypt. Built on the location of a Roman fort. Located on the side of the hill next to it is one of the Lutheran cemeteries in the city, which contains many tombstones of Germans.
• Bust of Vlad Tepes – Located around the corner from his birthplace, within sight of the Clock Tower

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The Castle itself was originally built back in 1320. And although a number of additions have been added over the years, the original courtyard which can be found in the upper part of the Castle is the most well preserved part of the original construction.

Krasna horka castle, Slovakia by Janos Korom Dr.

During the times of the Turkish threat to Slovakia, several fortifications were added to the Castle including three canon bastions as well as a terrace. Then again in the 18th century, when the Chapel of Nativity of the Virgin Mary was constructed within the castle grounds, one of the canon bastions were also reconstructed.

Today Krásna Hôrka Castle is home to the Slovak National Museum which is dedicated to not just history but also the development of the Castle over the centuries. Anyone who chooses to visit the Castle will see just how rich and colourful history of the area actually is. There are sections of the Castle that are dedicated to the various aristocrats and owners of the property since the castle was first built back in the early 14th century.

Perhaps one of the most interesting aspects of the Krásna Hôrka Castle is its amazing collection of arms. There are countless medieval weapons exhibits which can be seen within the museum. There are also several modern weapons as well. One of the most popular attractions in this section of the museum are a pair of bronze cannons, which were built back in 1547.

Entrance to Krasna Horka Castle, Slovakia by Bubamara

Upon entering into the Krásna Hôrka Castle, many people will notice the medieval style catapult which is situated near the front gate. This catapult was built in the late 20th century and is used every single year during the annual Castle Games. Just outside the nearby village of Krásnohorské Podhradie, you will also find a Muslim, which contains the sarcophagi of two members of the Andrássy family who are one of the most popular and famous owners of the Castle.

The castle was damaged by fire in 2012, therefore it is still closed and you will only be able to see it from outside. However you can already plan your visit for next year, when the reconstruction works are planned to be finished or you can also visit other attractions in its neighbourhood such as Betliar Manor House, Jasovská Cave, Domica Cave or hike through Zádieslká tiesňava Canyon.

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