Hărman/Honigberg

How did life in late Middle Ages look like in a besieged fortified church? In Hărman one can get a feeling for it, even today, with the help of the numerous components restored. The fortified church was repeatedly besieged and attacked especially in the 16th and 17th century, but was never taken. In January 1612 the villagers even succeeded to defend the castle against a 7,000-strong army of the Hungarian prince Bathori.

At that time the ensemble comprised three surrounding walls, a moat and many defence towers. The entire third fortification wall included storage space on the inside. Water supplies were provided by wells located within the fortifications. Living units were integral part of the church, which in case of a siege could provide accommodation for the mayor, the pastor and other key community representatives.

The defensive fortifications were built between the 13th and 15 Century. Until today very well preserved remains can be visited, e.g. the powerful inner fortification wall, the defence towers, and living as well as storage rooms in the castle precincts.

Aţel/Hetzeldorf

Aţel with its charming fortified church is located in a picturesque side valley of the Târnava Mare River. The ensemble is a typical example of medieval defence architecture, and contains many hidden treasures that can be discovered by visitors. A concealed stone spiral staircase leads directly from the sacristy into the attic. The double-wall bell tower features even more surprises. The defense platform on the top floor offers a magnificent view of the surrounding village and landscape. From here one can also trace the course of an escape tunnel rediscovered only 50 years ago, which leads from the church to a nearby creek.

In Aţel the historic image of the village with its traditional Saxon farmhouses has been preserved to a large extend. The village is surrounded by a hilly landscape. Numerous hiking trails provide opportunities for shorter and longer tours to neighboring villages and to other fortified churches.

Cisnădie/Heltau

The legend of the fortified church of Cisnădie tells us that a great treasure was once hidden inside. After numerous Ottoman attacks in the 15th century the village community built a secret chamber within the castle walls. Access was secured with a massive oak door, which could only be opened by pressing a hidden spring. From the outside, the entrance was camouflaged so well that only few insiders could find it. Not even the priests knew about it. Over the centuries, the knowledge of this hidden entrance got lost. At the beginning of the 20th century it was rediscovered and can be visited today.

In addition, not secretly hidden, but visible from far away visitors can spot the first clock tower in Transylvania, which is operated since 1425th, and the first lightning rod in Transylvania dating back to 1795.

The bell ringer of Cisnădie provides expert guided tours of the castle and the church affiliated museum and has many more stories and legends to share.