Bistrița

Founded by the Saxons in the early twelfth century, the city was fortified and by 1465 was encircled by defensive walls featuring multiple bastions and 18 towers. Its medieval architecture has been largely lost over the centuries, save for a few dwellings, the ruins of the walls and Cooper’s Tower, built across three levels.

Must-see attractions

• The Orthodox Church dating from the late thirteenth century, built in early Gothic style but featuring a Baroque interior and some frescoes from the late fourteenth century.
• The Evangelical Church from the fourteenth century, constructed in Gothic style with Renaissance elements. It is adjoined by a bell tower standing 77 metres high.
• The 13 merchants’ houses built between 1480 and 1550 in Gothic-Renaissance style, connected to one another by 20 arcades supported by square pillars.
• The Silversmith’s House, built in the fifteenth century, features facades adorned with Renaissance sculptures and a beautifully carved entrance portal.