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  Sibiu  The Old Saxon City

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COUNTY SIBIU 

==INTRODUCTION===================================

Maps Activities History Links

 Romānă
   

 

Tourist Map of Sibiu
Click Here for Sibiu City Centre Map BELOW
Sibiu in County Sibiu
County Sibiu is in the Transilvania region

For other towns outside of the Sibiu city area, please see County Sibiu!

Simply Beautiful Sibiu!

With a population of about 170,000, the decidedly delightful old Saxon town of Sibiu  straddles the river Cibin, a tributary of the river Olt, and is the capital of Sibiu County.

Sibiu is just about at the true geographical centre of Romania, and long served as an outpost for first the Saxons in Transilvania, and later the Wallachians coming up the Olt River from the more traditional Romanian principalities of Oltenia and Muntenia to the south.

The Enchanting Main Square

Tower along Sibiu's Piaţa Mare The fairy-tale old city centre has at it's heart the Piaţa Mare (Big Square), lined with buildings which look like they were designed in Hollywood to be the perfect late Mediaeval backdrop for a romantic epic.

Even the most travel-weary amongst us will melt at the sheer charm and uplifting drama of the wonderful old buildings which line the three downtown squares, all linked by little alleys, cute passages under clock towers, and quiet cobbled side streets which confirm you are in the real old Europe.

A European Union Cultural Capital

As you browse through our website, you'll probably realise that many cities in Romania are still undergoing significant development to bring the tourism infrastructure up to more Western standards.

See our Air Travel in Romania Section for Airline and Route Information through Sibiu's International Airport
But Sibiu is one of the shining jewels in the crown of "ready" Romanian cities.  The Sibiu International airport, despite the town's small size, enjoys flights on major airlines, including Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines.  

The town centre is well preserved and dotted with world-class museums, and some inspirational architecture (keep your cameras at the ready!).

All of this contributes to Sibiu being chosen by the European Union as the European Capital of Culture in 2007, which indeed only added to the panache and more importantly, the tourism infrastructure of one of Europe's newest lights.

Super Popular Sibiu

The city of Sibiu and its surroundings are one of the most visited areas in Romania. It holds one of the best preserved historical sites in the country, many of its medieval fortifications having been kept in excellent state. Its old centre has begun the process for becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

The Main Promenade at Paltiniş, in the Cindrel Mountains near SibiuSibiu and its surrounding area have many significant museums, with 12 institutions housing art collections, paintings, and exhibits in decorative arts, archaeology, anthropology, history, industrial archaeology and history of technology and natural sciences.

Stop in Sibiu.  Seriously.

Even if it is your first visit to deepest, darkest Transilvania, Sibiu is one of the easiest towns for an English-speaker in which to stay and get around.

We hate to mention it, but yes, there IS a McDonalds (placed next to a bus station), and you can get that could-be-anywhere mall feeling on the road going out towards Braşov if you really must.    And there are several top-notch hotels if you prefer a good view over the city centre, although a more meaningful cultural experience might be had with fewer familiar trappings.

If you only can afford even a two or three day stop somewhere in your travels around Romania, Sibiu really does afford a restful and very entertaining stopping off point to catch your breath, enjoy the history in full, and even make a few side-trips to the lofty little lake of Bālea Lac or nearby mountain town of Paltiniş.

 

The Little Square behind the Council Tower See on the Map
A delightful spot for a lunch a morning tea, you can watch the crowds go by under the Liar's Bridge and enjoy delicious food under the Sibiu sun at a terasa cafe.
The Little Square (Piaţa Mică), from the Liar's Bridge to the Council Tower in the heart of the old city of Sibiu Romania
 
 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
 
 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (C) 2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
 

 

The Old Sibiu City Centre 

   
Piaţa Mare, the Heart of Sibiu
Piata Mare in Sibiu
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
An Inner City Sanctuary
One of the many courtyard entrances under one of Sibiu's row homes in the old centre.
a leafy inner courtyard in the Sibiu city centre
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Cultural Capital of Europe
2007 was a big year for sleepy Sibiu, becoming the EU Capital of Culture, complete with beautiful floral displays on the main square and ad-hoc topiary bears too!
Floral display in Sibiu's main square (Piaţa Mare)
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Mercenaries' Tower
In the classic octagonal shape, with slits for the arquebusiers to shoot their prey.
The Mercenarie's Tower
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
One Fat Little Tower
Originally used for storing gunpowder, it is now part of the local theatre
The Thick Tower, now part of the Thalia Hall theatre in Saxon Sibiu, Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

Fortified Sibiu See on the Map

Sibiu is dominated by its medieval fortifications and its vibrant historic centre. Much of the city's aspect is due to its position, easily defensible, but allowing horizontal development.

The old city of Sibiu lies on the right bank of the Cibin River, on a hill situated at about 200 m from the river. It consists of two distinct entities: the Upper City and the Lower City. Traditionally, the Upper City was the wealthier part and commercial outlet, while the Lower City served as the manufacturing area.

The Upper City See on the Map

The Upper City (Romanian: Oraşul de sus) is organised around three city squares and a set of streets along the line of the hill. As the main area for burgher activities, the area contains most points of interest in Sibiu.

The Main Square See on the Map

The Main Square is, as its name suggests, the largest square of the city, and has been the centre of the city since the 16th century. 142 m long and 93 m wide, it is one of the largest ones in Transylvania.

Brukenthal Palace, one of the most important Baroque monuments in Romania, lies on the north-western corner of the square. It was erected between 1777 and 1787 as the main residence for the Governor of Transilvania Samuel von Brukenthal. It houses the main part of the National Brukenthal Museum, opened in 1817. Next to the palace is the Blue House, an 18th century Baroque house bearing the old coat of arms of Sibiu on its faēade.
On the north side is the Jesuit Church, along with its outbuildings, the former residence of the Jesuits in Sibiu. Also on the north side, at the beginning of the 20th century an Art Nouveau building was constructed on the west part, now it houses the mayor's office.
Next to the Jesuit Church on the north side is the Council Tower, one of the city's symbols. This former fortification tower from the 14th century has been successively rebuilt over the years. The building nearby used to be the City Council's meeting place; beneath it lies an access way between the Main Square and the Small Square.
On the south and east sides are two- or three-storey houses, having tall attics with small windows known as the city's eyes. Most of these houses are dated 17th to 19th centuries, and most of them are Baroque in style.

The Little Square See on the Map

As its name says, the Piaţă Mică is smaller in size, being rather longer than wide. Its north-west side has a curved shape, unlike the Main Square, which has an approximately rectangular shape. Accordingly, Piaţă Mică plays a smaller part in the city's present-day life.

The square is connected to the other two squares and to other streets by small, narrow passages. The main access from the Lower City is through Once Street, which divides the square in two. The street passes under the Liar's Bridge - the first bridge in Romania to have been cast in iron (1859).

To the right of the bridge is another symbol of the city, The House of the Arts, an arched building formerly belonging to the Butchers' Guild. On the left side of the bridge is the Luxemburg House, a Baroque four-storey building, former seat of the Goldsmiths' Guild.


The Huet Square See on the Map

Huet Square is the third of the three main squares of Sibiu. Its most notable feature is the Evangelical (Lutheran) Cathedral in its centre. It is the place where the earliest fortifications have been built. The buildings around this square are mainly Gothic. On the west side lies the Brukenthal High school, in place of a former 15th century school.
 

See Also the Lutheran Church in the Big 3 Churches Section Below

The Lower City See on the Map

The Lower City (Romanian: Oraşul de jos) comprises the area between the river and the hill, and it developed around the earliest fortifications.

Watching the world go by in Sibiu's Lower City, this baba knows what happens on her little street!  (c) Copyright 2006, Rest Romania SRL The streets are long and quite wide for medieval city standards, with small city squares at places. The architecture is rather rustic: typically two-storey houses with tall roofs and gates opening passages to inner courtyards, giving the entire Lower Town the feel of the French Quarter in New Orleans.
Most of the exterior fortifications were lost to industrial development and modern urban planning in the late 19th century; only one or two towers still exist along the mostly residential streets.
A building associated with newer urbanism of the period is the Independenţa high school.  This area also has the oldest church in the city, dating back to 1386.

 The Fortifications

The city of Sibiu was one of the most important fortified cities in South-eastern Europe. Multiple rings were built around the city, most of them out of clay bricks.

The south-eastern fortifications are the best kept, and all three parallel lines are still visible. The first is an exterior earth mound, the second is a 10-meter-tall red brick wall, and the third line comprises towers linked by another 10-meter-tall wall. All structures are connected via a labyrinth of tunnels and passageways, designed to ensure transport between the city and lines of defence.
In the 16th century more modern elements were added to the fortifications, mainly leaf-shaped bastions. One of these survived to this day, as the Haller Bastion (all the way down Coposu Boulevard).
 
 

The Guild Towers of Sibiu

The Seven Mediaeval Towers

In addition to the main council tower in the centre of the main square, Sibiu was once defended by several outlying towers connected with the defensive wall.

The Tanners' Tower was defended by leather workers and tanners of the area, overlooking the banks of the Cibin River on the north-west side of the old city. The grand old octagonal tower looks as if it was designed by a film crew, the thick walls designed to hold masses of gunpowder.
Located along the aptly named Wall Street (Strada Zidului at the intersection with Str Korsakov), it blew up several times in the 16th century, with its current stout shape constructed in 1638. Another tower down on Wall Street, is the Gunpowder Tower, a great circular tower which was built in 16th century.

The Citadel Street Towers

The southernmost of the main fortification towers, the Mercenaries' Tower (also called the Arquebusiers' Tower, named after the light firearm prevalent in the 1500s), the octagonal tower features window slits through which the rifles were aimed.The Carpenter's Tower (Turnul Dulgherilor) in Sibiu

 Formed out of local stone up to 1 m high, the remainder of the tower used bricks, up to the octagonal top. Located along Citadel Street (Str. Cetătii), not far from the French Centre and the downtown ASTRA park, the shape and height of this tower makes it one of the prettiest in Sibiu.
Further out Citadel Street is the Potters' Tower, with similar construction, although just a rectangular shape. More interesting, and also along Citadel Street is the Carpenters' Tower (LEFT), which has rounded stone foundations, but an octagonal proportion made of brick, as if the builders change their minds halfway through. The Carpenters' Tower was used to pour hot black oil on the unfortunate assailants.

That Is One Fat Tower!

The Fat Tower (aka the Thick Tower) is indeed a tubby little thing, its massive walls having survived to this day from 1540. Used as a platform to cannons, it was converted to a theatre in 1788 and is today part of the Thalia Hall.

The Stairway Tower (or the Gate Tower), is just off Huet Square, and has foundations dating from the end of the 12th century. Substantial changes in the 19th century were made to this tower, which has a wide passageway underneath connecting the large and small squares of old city centre. The adjacent stairs were actually added in the early 1860s. Nearby, the Gate Tower along Str. Al. Odobescu (where the Pasajul Scarilor intersects), is a wide sturdy square tower next to the Old Town Hall, guarding access to the town's main square.
 

Attractions around the Squares

The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (C) 2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
   
Click here to see more about this great primer for anyone travelling to Romania!From Mike Ormsby's new must-read book 'NEVER MIND THE BALKANS, HERE'S ROMANIA!', with a laconic English perspective on life in Romania and the Romanian people
Read More Here

The Sleepy Eyes of Sibiu

I arrive in Sibiu and friends meet me at the station.  I twist and turn on the back seat of their shiny new Dacia Logan, checking on the small, ancient city. 
Several years since I was here.  It feels the same as last time, yet looks different.  Tiled roofs still pitch at odd angles, their ventilation slats watching the town like sleepy eyes. 
Citizens still stroll with an unhurried gait, born of resilience. 

See all of Sibiu's Old Town and a Map of Sibiu Here!

The National Theatre at Sibiu
Just off Union Square, the Radu Stānca National Theatre has a modern face on classic works on the Romanian and world stages.
The Radu Stānca National Theatre in Sibiu, Transilvania Romānia
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Staircase Passage
Linking the Lower and Upper town areas
  The Staircase Passage (Pasajul Scarilor) in Sibiu's Old Town, linking the Upper town with the Lower town
Watching the World Go by
The combined wisdom of this group keeps a watchful eye on the Sibiu sidewalks
Along the main shopping street in Sibiu, a group of old men watch the world go by
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The History Museum
The "Casa Altemberger" houses the Brukenthal's history wing, in the oldest Gothic building in all of Transylvania.  The floors creak with convincing age throughout the exhibits!
the interior courtyard of the Brukenthal Museum
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Museum Of Art
The renovated facade of the Museum, on the main square, finished in 2007
The Brukenthal Art Museum after the 2007 renovations
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Ursulines Catholic Church
One of the biggest and the oldest, this Catholic Church Sir of the faithful of Sibiu under Hungarian rule
The Altar at the Sibiu Catholic Church in the Old City
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Shining Cross
just above the elaborate fresco up behind the altar, the stained-glass window shines through behind the great cross in Sibiu's Catholic Church
The Stained Glass Window of the Old Ursulines Catholic Church in Sibiu Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Evangelic ChurchSee on the Map
The Reformation came to Transilvania in a big way, with the Calvinists leading the way.  Many Saxons were adherents to the new church in Sibiu, mostly the merchant class.
The Evangelic Church in Sibiu's Huet Square
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Trinity Cathedral
The Twin Towers of Neo-Byzantine Grandeur
Turn-of-the-century architecture in Transylvania's largest cathedral in Sibiu, Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
Morning Light in Trinity Cathedral
A beautiful, airy, and uplifting space, the interior of the Trinity Cathedral is a must-see destination on the list of attractions for Sibiu!
the beautiful Trinity Cathedral in Sibiu, as the morning light flows through into the nave
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

The Staircase Passage

The steep Passage of the Stairs leads down to the lower section of Sibiu.

It descends along some fortifications under the support arches. It is the most picturesque of the several passages linking the two sides of the city. The Bus Station at Piata 1 Decembrie in Sibiu

The Station Square

(Or 1 Dec 1918 Square)

Arriving in Sibiu by train is an easy affair, since the main train station is immediately adjacent to the bus station at the 1 December 1918 Square, also known as Station Square, or "Piaţa Gării". Locals have never actually quite figured out what the Square has to do with the first of December, the National Unification Day, and most Sibians will simply refer to it as Station Square.

All of the main bus and trolley bus lines depart from the square heading south mostly towards the old city centre and other destinations in Sibiu city.

If you enjoy walking, Sibiu is well made for your feet. Most of the attractions really within the old city area, and taking public transport is only necessary when heading south towards some of the attractions going out for is the ASTRA park for example.

Read more on Trains, Tickets and Trams in Sibiu Here

The tram buses depart Station Square to the south towards Răşinari and the ASTRA Museum park, and west to the Saxon enclave of Littlerook (Turnişor) with its McDonald's, bus station, outlet stores, and international airport. The adjacent Station Park is a great spot to buy some sunflower seeds from a local gypsy woman. Try not to pay too much.
The station building itself contains the headquarters of the railway company for the district, as well as a pharmacy, ticket kiosk, a little cafe, and even a little police station.

The Thalia Hall Theatre

 Culture

Sibiu is one of Romania's most culturally lively cities. It has two theatres and a philharmonic orchestra. The Radu Stanca National Theatre is one of the leading Romanian theatres. See on the Map

With origins dating back to 1787, it attracts some of the best-known Romanian directors, such as Tompa Gįbor and Silviu Purcărete. It has both a Romanian-language and a German-language section, and presents an average of five shows a week. The Gong Theatre is specialised in puppetry, mime and non-conventional shows for children and teenagers; it also presents shows in both Romanian and German. The State Philharmonic of Sibiu presents weekly classical music concerts and also lesson concerts for teenagers.
The concerts take place in the newly renovated Thalia Hall, a concert hall and theatre dating from 1787, situated along the old city fortifications. Sporadic organ concerts are organised in the Evangelical Cathedral and thematic concerts are presented by the Faculty of Theology choir at the Orthodox Cathedral.
 The Brukenthal Art Museum, in the old colours in 2005 prior to the 2007 renovation

Events

A great number of festivals are organised yearly in Sibiu, the most prestigious being the Theatre Festival organised each spring at the end of May.

The one in the summer of 2005, gathered over 2,500 participants from 68 countries; over 300 shows were presented. Also, the oldest Jazz Festival in Romania is organised here, as well as a festival for young classical music artists, a documentary film festival, a medieval arts festival and many more smaller cultural events.

 Sibiu's Museums

Sibiu's museums are organised around two entities: the Brukenthal National Museum and the ASTRA National Museum Complex.

The Brukenthal Museum consists of an Art Gallery and an Old Books Library located inside the Brukenthal Palace, a History Museum located in the old town hall building, a Pharmacy Museum located in one of the first apothecary shops in Europe, dating from the 16th century, a Natural History Museum and a Museum of Arms and Hunting Trophies.
The ASTRA National Museum Complex focuses on ethnography, and consists of a Traditional Folk Civilisation Museum—a 96-hectare open-air museum located on a forest south of Sibiu—a Uatniversal Ethnography Museum, a Museum of Transylvanian Civilisation and a Museum of Saxon Ethnography and Folk Art. It also has a project of opening a Museum of the Culture and Civilisation of the Romany People. There is a Steam Locomotives Museum close to the railway station, sheltering around 40 locomotives, two of which are functional.

The Franz Binder Museum

One of the Crown Jewels of the ASTRA Museum complex, the Franz Binder Museum offers wide array of ethnographic and cultural displays, which are a must see stop on any visit to Sibiu. See on the Map

The Franz Binder Museum tends to attract some of the better temporary travelling exhibits in the country, so keep an eye out for announcements of upcoming exhibits.
One of the more surprising things about this museum, is that it does not concentrate solely on local Romanian and traditional art forms.
Rather, the collection expands to include pieces of art from many world cultures across a sequenced series of exhibits showing the reasons for art (the "gestures"), titled "Elements of the Peoples of the World's Culture and Art".
There are some curiously large collections from Africa, China, Japan, Brazil and other places not likely to be on the tip of your time during a visit to historic Sibiu. 

The Pharmacy Museum

The Pharmacy Museum is housed in 1568 a Gothic townhouse just off the little square in Sibiu's old city. With over 6000 exhibits ranging from the 16th to the 19th centuries, the museum fully covers the development of pharmacology, laboratory techniques, medicines and pharmacy science throughout the ages.

Unique among similar museums and other countries, and this Romanian collection also includes excellent exhibits of homoeopathic equipment, techniques, and methods. Samuel Hanemann pioneered work in homeopathic therapy and was a contemporary of the Transylvania Governor Samuel von Brukenthal, after whom the parent museum was named.

The Natural History Museum

Auspiciously located at number 1 Citadel St (Str. Cetatii, Nr. 1), the museum was built in 1849 by the Transylvania Society for natural history (Societăţii Ardelene de Ştiinţe Naturale).

The Society headquarters was designed by famous architect C. W. Friedrich Maetz from Cluj, opening on the 25th of May 1895. The neoclassical facade features four ionic columns on the portico over which is featured a balcony with balustrades.

The natural history collection contains over a million pieces across the geologic, palaeontologic, botanic and zoological disciplines.

 If you have any interest whatsoever in fine museology combined with some fairly interesting specimens, be it animal, mineral, or vegetable, the Natural History Museum in Sibiu will provide you with the insights necessary to understand Romania's unique ecosystems and geology. In particular, don't miss the recently opened (2007) Romanian natural history exhibit, opened by local dignitaries with much fanfare.
Call the museum on +40 (269) 213 156

The History Museum

You'll realise as you approach this fine Gothic building that the architecture of the museum compound is almost as interesting as some of the exhibits inside. Built at the end of the 15th century it's the biggest Gothic structure (non-military) in all of Romania.

The full name of the museum, "Muzeul Naţional Brukenthal - Muzeul de Istorie Casa Altemberger", signals that is as part of the important Brukenthal Museum complex.
Arranged across a dozen halls, the exhibits tackle subjects such as the evolution of rural communities and southern Transilvania, the life and influences of Neolithic Transylvanian's, Bronze Age artefacts, local Dacian artefacts and ways of life from the Tilişca-Căţănaş Citadel, and are very well done re-creation of an ancient village including all of the common elements for eating, sleeping and defences. A side collection of armour may be of limited interest for some, but is nonetheless a very replete and well-done exhibit.
Good lighting and thoughtful displays across a wide variety of subjects make this museum a surprisingly modern masterpiece, complete with LCD screens and fibre optic lighting.
The History Museum can be found off the Main Square (Piaţa Mare) at number 2 Bishops Street (Str. Mitropoliei, Nr. 2). Tel: (+40) 269 218143

The Sibiu Children's Palace

The Children's Palace is down in the lower town part of the Old City Centre, not far from the train and bus stations.

In addition to a variety of programs on each week, from puppet shows to excursions, the building also houses overflow and special exhibits from the Brukenthal museum and others. Check in to see what's on.

 

The Big 3 Churches

Sibiu's Catholic Church just off the Piaţa Mare (Main Square), home to the Transilvanian Catholics (popular during the Hungarian reign)  (c) Copyright 2007 Rest Romania SRLThe Ursulines Church

The current church built in 1474 and was part of a monastery until 1543. The Reformation saw many Catholics convert to the new Protestant variety of Christianity, and the church was converted to the new Lutheran faith.

Later on, the church was transferred to the hands of the Ursuline nuns who came to Sibiu in the early 1700s. The Ursulines reconstructed the church starting in 1728, and rehabilitated it to the Gothic wonder it is today, with heavy baroque touches and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Romanians to this day can still be surprised when confronted with the Catholic style of pews and great altar, with significant differences from their more familiar orthodox architecture.

 

The Lutheran Church See on the Map

The Lutheran Cathedral is an important architectural treasure precisely because it does not conform to the ecclesiastical building norms of the surrounding Orthodox churches and cathedral (see the Trinity Cathedral below). 

The full name of the Lutheran church in Sibiu is the Evangelic Church of the Augustine Confession in Romania. Most of today's congregation comes from a German roots, being Lutherans of the Saxon community. The church is also the headquarters for Lutherans in Romania, headed by Bishop Christopher Klein.

The Reformation brought changes to the Saxon communities of Transilvania, not only in the church, but also in education.

At the end of the 14th century in Sibiu, the first mandatory public education system was started on Romanian soil, thanks to the efforts of the Lutheran church. The church also held civic leanings, with the priest often also being the mayor of the town.

The Catholic Hungarians tried a counterreformation of the wayward Lutherans at the end of the 17th century, however was met with very little success. The fundamental Saxon spirit survives in the churches and schools to this day.

Whilst much of the congregation did emigrate (mostly to Germany) once the borders were opened in 1989 after the revolution, Sibiu remains one of the largest Lutheran communities in Romania, with over 14,000 still attending the area churches.

The Sibiu Trinity Cathedral

It doesn't really matter if you don't like churches, or even if you only have two hours in the city of Sibiu, but Trinity Cathedral is definitely a must-see, must-stop place.

As always, please be respectful as far as your dress, and local customs are concerned. Please read our section on religion for a more information.
Not only is it one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in Romania, the sheer openness and grandeur of the internal space makes it almost impossible to believe this fine old church is tucked away on a ordinary street in the old section of Sibiu.

As a rare nod to the ethnic Romanian population, Trinity Cathedral is actually built with permission from Vienna in 1857, to serve the local Transilvanian Orthodox community.

In a grand gesture of inclusiveness, it was actually the Emperor Franz Joseph I who donated a thousand gold coins, followed by the Transilvanian governor and many others in the Sibiu upper classes and church.

The previous Greek church on the same side was demolished in 19 two and worked soon began up until 19 four, when the great dome was installed on the new church under the watchful eye of local architect Joseph Schussnig.Behind the Iconostatis at the Trinity Cathedral in Sibiu Romania

After a contest in which 31 architects submitted their plans, construction on the great cathedral began using a design with a massive Roman door flanked by two massive rectangular towers, reaching up 45 m. It was the great Ayasofya (Sfānta Sofia) basilica in Istanbul which inspired the imposing interior dome of the Trinity Cathedral, harking back to the height of Byzantine architecture and grandeur.

In addition to the main towers,  four little octagonal towers also adorn of the exterior, surrounding the interior cupola, which spans over 34 m.

The light coming through the dome is simply sumptuous on any given morning or afternoon. Local painters contributed to some of the interior icons, and the Cathedral was consecrated by Bishop Ioan Metianu in 1906, with future prime minister Nicolae Iorga in attendance. Further restoration and painting works were continued in the Neobyzantine style of Iosif Keber and Anastasie Demian.
The Trinity Cathedral is located at number 33 Bishops St (Str. Mitropoliei 33-35), and is open daily.

Habsburgs take back castle Dracula

Sibiu's celebrated Brukenthal Museum and Transylvania's Dracula site, Bran castle, have been restituted to their legal owners by the Romanian state. Habsburg family descendants of Princess Ileana, daughter of King Ferdinand of Romania, are now owners of the 14th century Brasov county castle, a tourist destination for vampire fans due to the spurious link that Vlad 'The Impaler' Tepes may have spent the night there a couple of times.
In both cases, the properties will remain museums. Representatives of the Evangelical Church of Sibiu, the regained owners of the Brukenthal, said they want their property to become “an international museum, a European asset”.
Source:  The Diplomat

 SOUTH OF SIBIU

 Traditional barn
 on the way to Paltiniş
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (C) 2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
 
Spikes of Lavender Lupin
Gorgeous stands of purple flowers near one of the outbuildings at the Dobrogean theme area
Beautiful Lupin Flowers near the Dobrogean Fishermans Cottage
 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
Traditional Linens and Furnishings
Honestly, it looks like someone's grandmother lives here, having just left to get some vegetables in the garden for a great stew!
Typical Argeşean House Interior at the Sibiu ASTRA Traditional Open Air Musum 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
Windmills Through Time
Where there was not water nor oxen, the windmill was used for 100% green power!
The Windmills of Time in a beautiful meadow at the ASTRA Museum park in Sibiu
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

The Astra Museum Park

All of Romania, in One Place!

Obviously, you'll want to spend time in the old town centre of Sibiu, but your number two stop -- even if you only have a morning or afternoon -- should definitely be the Astra park. 

When you do a lot of travel-writing, as our Rest Romania correspondents do, it is fairly easy to become a little jaded about the seemingly endless number of tourist attractions, large and small.  But the incredibly well-done Astra open-air folk museum just south of the Sibiu city centre is at the pinnacle of it's kind.
Spread across a wide swath of forested parkland reserve, over 200 structures are faithfully reconstructed in natural settings, all connected with pathways, around lakes and watercourses.  

Almost hidden away in deep in the grove forest just south of the Sibiu city centre, the ASTRA complex is a wonderland of cultural treasures brought in from all over Romania.

 The full title of the Museum, the ASTRA Traditional Folk Civilisation Museum, barely begins to describe the importance and scope of what should be an example for other ethnographic installations of this type.

Understanding the Real Romania

Some travellers often have the mistaken impression that Romania lacks the sort of deep and abiding culture that has stood the test of centuries.

Here at the ASTRA Open Air Museum, that mistake is reversed as you marvel at authentic buildings and collections which have been brought from all over Romania. The Herculean efforts of the country's best museologists has resulted in something which is much more than a world-class museum: it's truly a life experience.
The ease at which you will learn about other ways of true Romanian life through the centuries is made possible by the detailed decorations with the end of the authentic home states and even commercial buildings, from a mongers forge, to a fully fledged winemaking operation from the 18th century, as well as a giant water wheel mounted over a country stream, showing the engine of the rural economy in years past.

The Diverse Romanian Culture

As you walk through the leafy display collections, you will come to realise that Romanian culture shows its deep diversity like the sudden fanning of a peacock's feathers.

At one moment you're taking in the life of a fisherman at his cottage on the Danube Delta, and in the next thematic group of installations, you come to understand oilseed crushing, ingeniously using hydraulic energy. From woodworking and metal working to pottery, flour milling, vine growing, beekeeping, and animal raising, you will be a fully fledged expert in what true Romanian village life was, and for the most part, still is to this day.
For more information on traditional life in the Danube Delta, click here
The park itself is delightful, and visiting in the summer months you will be presented with a riot of colour in the meadows carefully landscaped in the forest clearings. Informative panels explain to the key features of the displays in English and in other languages. Guides are posted throughout the park to explain things in more detail, showing you how a particular farm implements might have worked, or what the significance is a various features within the homes and hearths.
Sibiu's ASTRA Open-Air Museum  See on the Map
Over 500 exhibits of life in Romania through the ages, moved to Sibiu and placed in appropriate settings with a wealth of cultural information
Traditional home at the Astra Open Air Museum in Sibiu  
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
Textiles, Pottery, Eggs and More!
Definitely NOT a tourist trap, the ASTRA Museum store offers real traditional crafts at reasonable prices, the perfect stop for gifts for the family!
Beautiful linen, pottery and clothing at the ASTRA Museum shop in Sibiu, Romania
 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

Culture for the Suitcase!

The beautiful tapestries and linens which decorate many of the display houses may also be purchased at the wonderfully stocked Museum store, which successfully brings the best of Romanian arts and crafts together in one place.

Don't miss the painted Easter eggs in particular, along with the fine linens from all over the country, both of which are excellent items to stuff into your suitcases for the journey home. Also near the main entrance of the park, is a concession on the lake selling all sorts of sugary treats, and a main restaurant with liveried staff and a very good regional menu.
After you've eaten, you will probably still have a good portion of the park remaining for a leisurely stroll. Probably half of the enjoyment of the ASTRA Open Air Ethnographic Museum by the beautiful vistas, whether it's the main lake, or encountering a meadow of old windmills and should come around the corner. If you do have a particular interest in this sort of cultural wonderland, the Museum park does offer accommodation at their inn and pub.

Nearby Options

If for some reason the ASTRA complex is not sufficient for your day, there is also an adjoining small zoo which has a small selection of beasties, as well as little boats for hire on the lakes which link the zoo and the open air Museum area.

Depending on your itinerary, you may wish to do the Museum in the morning, and continue on to the Saxon village of Cisnădie to the south, or take the high Road up to the resort town of Paltiniş, following the tram line first to Raşinari. In fact, the tram is actually a reasonable way to get to the park, with a stop right in front of the main gates. See our map of the Sibiu Borders region here for the full Sibiu tram routes.
Otherwise, the park features ample parking, and you can also get around the park by horse and carriage, available for hire by the hour.
 
==LODGING=================================== Get some help from a qualified Agent here!

 

Need to get more local information and advice?   Talk to a local agent about local things to do and sites to see!

Listed below are some local agents who can help you with bookings and organize local tours in the Sibiu area.

Travel Inout, Str. Miraslau nr. 22 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 232882  FAX: +40 (269) 232882
Trans Europa, Str. N. Balcescu nr. 19 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 211296  FAX: +40 (269) 210364
Transair Agency, Str.Al.Paoiu Ilarian nr.3 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 216013  
Tramp Travel Holidays International, Bd Victoriei nr 29, ap 11 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 206630  FAX: +40 (269) 243955
Pf Alaman Marian, Tiglarilor G2/58 in Sibiu
+40 740140506  
Reky Travel Turism, Str.Nicolae Iorga nr.59,sc.C, et.1, ap.24 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 244165  FAX: +40 (269) 421460
Paralela 45, Calea Dumbravii nr. 12 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 216096  FAX: +40 (269) 217947
Maya Tour, Str George Cosbuc , nr.25 A in Sibiu
+40 (269) 223324  FAX: +40 (269) 223324
Marshal Turism (Sibiu), Str.Constitutiei nr.1 in Sibiu
+40 (369) 405389  FAX: +40 (369) 405389
Magic Travel, Str. Mitropoliei nr. 27 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 230275  FAX: +40 (269) 230275
Kultours, Piata Mica nr.16 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 216854  FAX: +40 (269) 216854
Karussell Tours, Soseaua Alba Iulia nr.6 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 215241  FAX: +40 (269) 212250
Idm Tour, Piata Mica nr.7 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 214369  FAX: +40 (269) 214254
Good Time, Sos. Alba Iulia nr.59 in Sibiu
+40 722211644  FAX: +40 (269) 227743
Eximtur (Sibiu), Str. Nicolae Balcescu nr. 6 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 245508  FAX: +40 (269) 245508
Crown Tours, Calea Dumbravii nr 17 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 560048  FAX: +40 (269) 243464
Carpathian Active Travel, Piata Mare 12 in Sibiu
+40 727851466  FAX: +40 (269) 421460
Atlassib Tourism, Str.Autogarii nr.1 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 212466  FAX: +40 (269) 228068
Ankertours, Str.Nicolae Balcescu nr.10 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 431057  
Amad Touristik, Calea Poplacii nr.58 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 212227  FAX: +40 (269) 233222
Aka Travels, Str.N.Balcescu nr.17 in Sibiu
+40 745845156  
Aerotravel Business Plus Lufthansa City Center, Str.Telefoanelor nr.1 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 218140  FAX: +40 (269) 213526
Dream Travel, Str. Nicolae Balcescu nr.12 in Sibiu
+40 (369) 405390  FAX: +40 (369) 405390
Inter Pares, Str. Cristian nr.19A in Sibiu
+40 (269) 234082  FAX: +40 (269) 234082
Sind Romania (Sibiu), Bd. Victoriei 10 in Sibiu
 +40 (269) 218339  FAX: +40 (269) 218339
Prima Ardeleana, Piata Unirii nr.1 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 211788  FAX: +40 (269) 217933
Flamingo Travel, Str. Gral. Vasile Milea nr.64 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 215003  FAX: +40 (269) 215003
Continental (Sibiu), Calea Dumbravii nr.2-4 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 218100  FAX: +40 (269) 210125
Paltinis S A, Str.Tribunei nr.3 in Sibiu
+40 (269) 223860  
Eco Travel Consult, Str.Soimului, bl.16E, ap.7 in Sibiu
+40 724217016  
Turismul Transilvan, Str.Porumbacului nr.7 in Sibiu
 +40 (269) 422859  
Bilco, Str.Arad nr.39 in Sibiu
 +40 (269) 223525  
Birki-Reisen, Aleea Haiducului nr 2 in Sibiu
 +40 (269) 217370  
Agentia de Voiaj Sibiu, Str. Nicolae Balcescu nr. 6 in Sibiu
Informations about international and local routes,tickets
 +40 (269) 216441  
 

 

 

Maps Activities History Links

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==MAPS=================================== Maps of this Great Area!

 Maps, Facts and More about

Like a Map?  We'll send you one by e-mail or a real one!
(Scroll right and down on the below map to see all of Sibiu city centre)

Click here for a larger version of the map below,
or CLICK ON TOWNS on the map for info on each town in County Sibiu

==> Alba ==> Mureş ==> Vālcea ==> Argeş ==> Braşov ==> Tārnăveni ==> Alba ==> Blaj ==> Alba Iulia ==> Sebeş ==> Aiud ==> Sibiu ==> Mediaş ==> Sighişoara ==> Făgăraş ==> Sibiu

 
    See a Road Map of the Sibiu Area

See More Maps of Romania and Sibiu at

  

 

See an Area Map of County Sibiu

See a Street Map of Sibiu
See More Street Maps of Sibiu at

See a Street Map of Sibiu
See More Street Maps of Sibiu on hartionline.ro

See Other Towns in County Sibiu Here

Geography

The Făgăraş Mountains

Sibiu has the privilege of being sited just to the north of the stunning Făgăraş and Cindrel mountains, between which the might Olt River flows through it's gorge south to Wallachia. 

The Făgăraş Mountains are a very popular trekking destination, and the sapphire ice lake, Bālea Lac attracts snowboarders and outdoor afficianados year-round.   Sibiu is also close to the Păltiniş resort, a popular winter holiday destination, and it is at the heart of the former Saxon communities in Transylvania renowned for its fortified churches.
 

The Cibin River and Depression

The Cibin river and some roads of national and international interest run through Sibiu, which is also an important city for the railway transportation, as the meeting point of east-west and north-south routes.

Set in the Cibin Depression, the city is about 20 km from the Făgăraş Mountains, the Cibin Mountains (12 km), and the Lotrului Mountains (about 15 km), which border the depression in its southwestern section. The northern and eastern limits of Sibiu are formed by the Tārnavelor Plateau, which descends to the Cibin Valley through Guşteriţei Hill.

Sibiu is one of the most prosperous cities of Romania, and also receives one of the highest rates of foreign investment in the country.

It is an important manufacturer of automotive components (Bilstein-Compa, Takata, Continental, and SNR Roulments). Other local industries are machine components, textiles, agro-industry, and electrical components (Siemens).
One of the main concerns for the city is attracting new investors to locate their businesses in Sibiu, and an industrial park has been recently completed. The city also contains Romania's largest stock exchange outside of Bucharest, the Sibiu Stock Exchange.

 

Climate and Population

Sibiu's climate is temperate-continental with average temperatures of 8 to 9° C. The multi-annual average of rainfall is 662 l/mp, and there are about 120 days of hard frost annually.

As of approximately 2002, Sibiu has a population of about 170,000. The ethnic breakdown is as follows:  Romanians 95%, Hungarians 2%, Germans 1.6%, and others 1.4%.

Religion

Most of the population is of the Romanian Orthodox religion. Protestants and Roman Catholics represent 4% of the population. 25% of the population are over 50 years old, and 18% of the population are college or university graduates.

 

Education

Sibiu is an important centre of higher education, with over 26,000 undergraduate students in 2004.

The Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu was founded in 1990, with five faculties: Engineering and Sciences; Letters; History and Law; Medicine; Food and Textile Processing Technology. Nowadays, it has many departments.

  • Andrei Şaguna Faculty of Theology
  •  Faculty of Letters and Arts
  • Nicolae Lupu Faculty of History and Patrimony
  • Simion Bărnuţiu Faculty of Law
  • Hermann Oberth Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Sciences
  • Victor Papilian Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Economics
  • Faculty of Journalism
  • Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Food Industry and Environmental Protection
  • The University College
  • Department for Distance and E-Learning

Sibiu also houses the Nicolae Bălcescu Land Forces Military Academy, the most important military academy in Romania, as well as some private universities.

In Sibiu there are 20 educational institutions on the secondary level, the most prestigious of which are:

  • Colegiul Naţional Gheorghe Lazăr - mainly sciences and informatics
  • Colegiul Naţional Samuel von Brukenthal - German language highschool
  • Colegiul Naţional Octavian Goga - mainly social sciences
  • Liceul Teoretic Onisifor Ghibu - informatics, social sciences and sports
  • Colegiul Pedagogic Andrei Şaguna - training for schoolteachers
  • Liceul Teoretic Constantin Noica - social sciences and sciences

 Famous Sibians

  • Andrei Codrescu, writer
  • Sabina Cojocar, gymnast
  • Iancu Sasul, Moldavian Prince
  • Nicolae Manolescu, literary critic and politician
  • Hermann Oberth, space flight technology pioneer
  • Nicolaus Olahus, archbishop of Hungary
  • Oskar Pastior, poet and translator
  • Radu Vasile, former Prime Minister of Romania
  • Alina Ciorogariu, Miss Tourism World 2003

transportation in Sibiu

 
Parking can be a bit of a nightmare in Sibiu's city centre, here behind the main square, so public transport is an excellent idea

 

 Local Transport

Tursib is the city's transport system who operates one tramway line to Răşinari, 5 trolleybus lines and about 20 bus lines. It is also an important hub for the international bus links with the biggest passenger transporter in Romania, Atlassib, based here.

The city is also a hub for the Romanian railway network, CFR, with links to Braşov, Rāmnicu Vālcea, Alba Iulia and Mediaş. It has an important diesel powered locomotives depot and a freight terminal.
In 2007 Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture (2008 was Liverpool). It was the most important cultural event that has ever happened in the city in recent decades, and a great number of tourists enjoyed the town, both domestic and foreign.
See More about Taxis, Busses
and Driving Here

Taxis and Maxi-Taxis

In addition to the train station and bus stations, you can pick up a taxi fairly reliably at the stand near the Hotel Continental, and another one near the Radu Stānca Theatre (the one with the big screen on it at Union Square.

Maxi-taxis are found more at the bus and train terminals, reserved now for the more long-distance routes out of town, and are not seen as much around town these days (since 2007). 

Transmixt, Atlassib and Tursib busses in SibiuThe Buses and Trolley Buses

The TURSIB company owns and operates the buses on trolleys which run throughout Sibiu. Any ticket which you buy is good for two travel segments, which can either be a round trip or two legs in the same direction.

To be sure to have your ticket validated once on board by inserting the ticket into the punching device. Just punch a button on the device and inspect the ticket to make sure it was validated properly.
You can buy tickets for travel at any TURSIB outlet. One ticket to travel costs 1.5 lei and can be purchased at automated machines at kiosks for selling tickets, or at TURSIB agencies.The Main Train Station in Sibiu

Ticket Purchasing Locations

The automated ticketing machines have recently been installed at the main stations, such as the Gara Mare (Main Station), the Cemetery station, and the station at the Museum of Natural History. You can purchase anywhere between one to four tickets and the machines accept 10 and 50 cent (ban) pieces, or 1 or 5 lei notes.

You can also find helpful kiosks at the following locations where you can also buy your tickets: Valea Aurie, Piaţa Rahovei, Piaţa Valea Aaron, Compa, Nufarul (Coposu Blvd.), Universitate, Piaţa Cibin, the “Plus” department-store (on the Alba Iulia Road), and at Obor.
Actual agents of the TURSIB company can also be found at number 12 Calea Dumbrāvii near 1 Decembrie square during normal business hours, as well as down the road as number is 133 to 135. If you have had the good sense to retain a Romanian driver-translator (as we always recommend), you can call TURSIB on (269) 426 100, or you can also e-mail the company on tursib@xnet.ro.
Check out the TURSIB Sibiu Transportation website  which shows the routes and route numbers of the local buses and trolley buses.

 

 Rental Cars in Sibiu

Listed below are car rental locations in the Sibiu area.

Sibiu Downtown, Str. Tribunei, nr.7 in Sibiu  SEE MAP
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
       
  +1(800) 331 1212   +44 (844) 581 0147   +40 729 800393  
Sibiu Downtown, Str. Ioan Lupaş, nr.30 in Sibiu SEE MAP
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
       
  +1(800) 527 0700   +44 (8445) 81 22 01   +40 (269) 239095  
 
Quattro Rent-a-Car Sibiu Central, Gheorghe Lazăr 07 in Sibiu SEE MAP
to or Weekly
to or Weekly
to or Weekly (BMW730D)
     
  +40 (269) 210 200 or (766) 603 203  24 Hours:  +40 (
741) 021 107  

   

See our Maps in this Guide for Location Info 

See our driving section for tips on Driving in Romania!

More Car Rental Firms in Sibiu on the Sibiu.ro website 

Sibiu By Train

Despite Sibiu's location in the centre of the Romania, it is a bit more difficult get here than to other cities like Brasov and Cluj-Napoca, mainly due to Sibiu's location outside the main railway line which joins Bucharest to Hungary and beyond.

However, train remains the easiest, cheapest and most comfortable way to get here. Remember, though, that from Bucharest, there are just two trains daily to Sibiu (one in the morning, one in the night). Also, Sibiu is one of the only cities of Romania not served by the modern and snazzy InterCity network from Bucharest, even though there are InterCity trains from Cluj Napoca.
See More about Train
Travel in Romania Here

From Bucharest, the train most tourists take is the day train A 1621 which leaves Bucharest North at 09:45 and arrives at Sibiu at 15:31, nearly six hours later and stopping at most towns along the way.

 The train is not particularly comfortable - hopefully, however, CFR Romanian Railways will soon introduce InterCity trains on this route.
Domestic Flight Route Map for Sibiu
Route map of Romanian Domestic Airline Routes for TAROM and Carpatair into Sibiu from Timişoara and Bucharest
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Sibiu International Airport
Non-stop Flights from Vienna and Munich, as well as Bucharest and Timişoara
the Sibiu International airport (c) 2007 - 2009 Rest Romania SRL
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
Coming from Cluj Napoca, the main city of Transylvania, is a much better opportunity to get to Sibiu. In fact, many tourists do just that, as part of their Transylvanian tour. From Cluj Napoca, there are two fairly-convenient trains a day, one at 05:41 and one at 14:57, taking around 3 hours and a half. The trains are smooth-running and very comfortable.

 

See our Air Travel in Romania Section for Airline and Route Information through Sibiu's International Airport

 Flying to SIBIU

If you're not coming to Sibiu from another Romanian town, plane is an excellent option, as there are direct connections to Sibiu International Airport from many European cities, especially those in Germany and Italy.

Both of the national carriers connect Sibiu with their hubs in Bucharest and Timişoara, where you can connect with other Romanian cities on there domestic route networks (see map)The Făgăraş Mountains near Sibiu, Flying High over the Carpathian Mountains of Romania
The mainline carrier TAROM runs it's new Airbus A318 and Boeing 737-700 series jets on the 35 to 45 minute daily run over the Carpathian mountains to Sibiu and back.  

You have your choice of Business Class or Economy, and the flight is particularly beautiful on winter days when the snow glistens on the Făgăraş mountains (photo on right). 

TAROM also run their older ATR42 turboprops on the route (which take only 5 to 10 minutes longer), so check ahead if you prefer one over the other.  Both have great views, and you can avoid the inconvenient train schedules between Sibiu and Bucharest too. 
Carpatair flies their SAAB2000 Turboprops daily to connectwih the main hub in Timişoara in the far west of Romania.   Carpatair operates regular flights from 10 Romanian destinations to 9 destinations in Italy – Turin, Milan, Verona, Venice, Ancona, Bologna, Florence, Bari, Rome –, 4 destinations in Germany – Munich, Stuttgart, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt am Main – and 2 in Greece – Athens, Thessaloniki (from 14 April).  All flights operate with a short stop in Timisoara.
Between the Airport and the Town Centre,
the Sibiu McDonald's

Fast-food in Sibiu

 
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (C) 2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

American Fast-Food in Sibiu

With so much rich history, and particularly a richer food history, it seems almost a crime to mention American fast-food alongside the beautiful local dishes inspired by traditional Romanian and Saxon cuisines.

But, it's a bucket of deep-fried chicken is just what you want to take with you on your trip up to the mountains, you can stop in the KFC outlets of the outlet centre towards the western side of the town. On the road to Braşov, and there is the KFC next to some of the megastores, just in case you really need to abandon all of that culture and get that could be anywhere in the world feeling.See on the Map

Similarly well-placed to the masses, there's a McDonald's on the eastern side of town, of course right next to one of the main bus stations.

About equally distant between the centre of town and the Sibiu International Airport, the McDonald's offers familiar fare, if for some reason you don't find the delicious shaorma a better fast-food alternative.
 

  Communications

 Dialling Sibiu

All of the phone numbers in Sibiu start with (269) or (369), depending on whether the service is through the old state-run operator RomTelecom, or from one of the newer entrants into the market in Romania.

Dialling into Sibiu, you must remove any leading zero from the county code portion of the phone number, so that (0269) becomes (269).   Dialling a mobile number, you do the same, dropping the zero from the (07XX) part of the number, to make it (7XX).   Both landlines and mobiles have 6 digits following the initial county code. 
 For full dialling information and a chart of county codes, see our Dialling Romania section here

Sibiu HotSpotsWireless Hotspot Symbols.  Click here to see Map

Being named the European Capital of Culture for 2007 by the European Union made Sibiu wake up to technology, with a dozen or more new wireless hotspots going in.

Sibiu has HotSpots both in the centre, and the newer industrial and shopping complexes in the east and west of town on the main highways.  See our Sibiu Map and look for the wireless symbols (as to right).  Wireless Hotspot Symbols.  Click here to see MapSee on the Map

 

In the Western Industrial Zone (near the Airport):

Metropolitan Wireless Café, 10 Justitiei Street in Sibiu  With a name like this, you know you're in the right place!   +40 (723) 308 888
Amas Café, 2 Justitiei Street in Sibiu  With a name like this, you know you're in the right place!   +40 (723) 308 888
The Transylvanian Evanghelical Academy (Academia Evanghelica Transilvania), 55 Livezii Street in Western Sibiu  Out near the airport and Metro   +40 (269) 219 914
Hotel Ana, 120 Alba Iulia Highway in Western Sibiu, 550052  Out near the airport and Metro, this recently built hotel features all the western conveniences, including wireless and a good location on the highway into town   +40 (269) 228 856  FAX +40 (269) 28 875
Casa Bianca, 93B Eduard Albert Bieltz St, in the Turnişor Quarter, Sibiu 550052   In the Turnişor (Little Rook) neighbourhood across the Cibin River and rail line in western Sibiu.  Located near a nice neighbourhood market square   +40 (744) 599 466 Wireless Hotspot Symbols.  Click here to see Map

 

In the City Centre (within 5 blocks of Piaţa Mare):

Pensiunea Happy Day,  2D Long Street (Str. Lunga) Sibiu 550107  a block from the Cibin River In Just across the Cibin River from the town centre, this guesthouse (pensiune) is run by the Best Western people from the roadside Bandit's Fountain complex south of Sibiu at Bradu (see below)   +40 (269) 234 985 
Biblioteca ASTRA,   Str. George Baritiu, nr.5-7,  Sibiu 550178  alongside the main ASTRA Park next to Union Square A comfortable and peaceful atmosphere with good signal and right on the southern end of the main old town tourist zone.    +40 (269) 210 551 or +40 (269) 215 775 
DownTown, 24, 9th of May Street (Str. 9 Mai Nr 24) in the old Centre of Sibiu 550201   Just two short blocks north of Little Square (Piaţa Mica), it's the closest to the main central attractions  +40 (724) 204 196
Supporter Sports Club,  26 Victory Boulevard, Sibiu 550024   down and across from the Justice Palace A sports club with all the matches and races on the big screens; a little judicious negotiation will get you a good spot.     +40 (269) 218 065 or +40 (730) 004 468 
Theodoru Telecom SRL,  33 C. Noica Street Sibiu 550169 a few blocks behind the State Theatre We have no idea what these people are about, please e-mail us here if you know, thanks.

Wireless Hotspot Symbols.  Click here to see Map

 

University Area and Southern Neighbourhoods:

Underground Café, 52 Grove Road (Calea Dumbravii) South of the centre of Sibiu 550324 Not far from the universities going south along Grove Rd from the centre  +40 (723) 346 918 or +40 (723) 677 181
Asconet,  89 Grove Road (Calea Dumbravii), Sibiu 550024  close to several local guesthouses An internet caffe with billiard tables with a relaxed neighbourhood feel.      +40 (369) 591 001
The Fortuna Guesthouse, 22 A.I. Cuza Street, Sibiu 550332 Close in to the Centre and University Districts A fully appointed guesthouse complete with wireless, suitable for any American on the road seeking some authentic local lodging.      +40 (722) 320 099 or Front Desk (8am - 3:30pm) on +40 (369) 429 613
The Naf Naf Bar, Str. Marasesti, nr.1 Sibiu 550337 Perhaps not possible to have a more naff name than this!  Please e-mail us here if you know about this neighbourhood haunt, thanks.  +40 (722) 228 455

Kubata Pub and more, Str. Marasesti, nr.1 Sibiu 550393  A promising name, the "and more" needs to be investigated!   Please e-mail us here if you know about this bar on the southern end of Sibiu, thanks.  +40 (741) 174 795

Wireless Hotspot Symbols.  Click here to see Map

 

On the Highway Towards Braşov

We've included here these HotSpot locations which are all well out of the city centre, in case you'd like to stop on your way to/from Bālea Lac, or coming back from Cisnadie or the Olt River Gorges or Rāmnicu Vālcea.

Sigemo, Just off he main DN1 Highway, on 26 Sibiului Street, technically in Şelimbăr, 557260  Just out of the city limits is the main SuperCentre type shopping area with the big box stores, and Sigemo is a premium auto parts and accessories store. +40 (269) 216 776 or  +40 (269) 213 151

  Intercar, On the main DN1 Highway at Kilometre 303+750, in the town of Şelimbăr, 557260 The only Skoda showroom in Sibiu has wireless and petrol, so smile and look interested in a new car if you really need to send those e-mails on the road here.  Tell Dan that Rest Romania sent you! +40 (269) 560 606 or  +40 (269) 560 688

The Best Western Bandit's Fountain Hotel (Fāntāniţa Haiducului), on the DN1 Highway between Sibiu and Braşov at Bradu, 555201 A fine example of all a roadside hotel can be, centrally located between Sibiu and beautiful Fărăgraş mountains and stunning Bālea Lac.      +40 (269) 525 300 or +40 (269) 525 322

 

     See more Sibiu Boingo and Free hotspots here, from jiwire.com

 

 
==LODGING=================================== Check out your Accomodation Options here! Get your hotel or accommodation seen to the world with a premium accommodation listing with Rest Romania.
See our Accommodation section for helpful tips about the types of accommodation you can expect.
Know of a property or some information we missed?   Please Rest Romania is Romania's Biggest Tourism Website for Accommodation, Lodging and great Reviews and Guides! Let us know about it now Thanks!

The Park Hotel
Recently built modern option in the heart of Sibiu
The Parc Hotel in Sibiu
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Īmpăratul Romānilor Hotel
Proud of it's status and location, the Imperator touts it's international flair.  The building was originally designed as a restaurant, and today it's glass ceiling is famous throughout the region.
The many flags above the portico of the Imperator Romanilor Hotel in Sibiu next to the Main Square (Piata Mare)
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Roman Emperor Hotel in Sibiu, Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Old and the New
The Ramada towers over a Sibiu park, with traditional village artwork displayed
The Ramada in Sibiu
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Hotel Boulevard
One of the touchstones of local hoteliery
The Hotel Boulevard in Sibiu, Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Hotel Silva in Sibiu
A well-run modern hotel with good rooms
the Hotel Silva in Sibiu, Romania
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
The Miorita Guesthouse
Pensiunea Mioriţa on the main road to Pāltiniş at Rāşinari
The Little Lamb (Mioriţa) Guest house
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA
There are over 35 hotels in Sibiu, with different classifications. The most exquisite hotel is the Īmpăratul Romanilor hotel, located in the centre of the old part of the city.

Continental Hotels Romania owns two important hotels in the city, one under the Ibis name in the Accor franchise.  Two new hotels opened in 2007, with another in 2008 as well, keeping the room rates and quality in Sibiu competitive and modern.

Listed below are some local hotels, guesthouses (B&Bs) and other accommodation in the Sibiu area.

Pensiunea Casa Moraru, Strada Alexandru Vlahuta nr.11A in Sibiu
(269) 216291  
Pensiunea Bella, str. Prof. Aurel Decei nr.6 in Sibiu
(269) 245676  
Pensiunea Turist, Str. RAHOVA nr. 101 in Sibiu
(269) 242050  
Pensiunea Korona, str. Luptei nr.9 in Sibiu
(269) 225533  
Pensiunea Hermannstadt, str. Blanarilor nr. 13 in Sibiu
(269) 212340  
Pensiunea Edelweiss, str. Campului nr. 13 in Sibiu
788 723026  
Pensiunea Corina, sos. Alba Iulia nr. 10 in Sibiu
(269) 228492  
Pensiunea Alpin, DJ Sibiu-Păltiniş, km 15 in Sibiu
(269) 557337  
Hotel Parc, Str. Scoala de inot 1-3 in Sibiu
(269) 423559  
Pensiunea The Old Town, Piata Mica nr. 26 in Sibiu
A light and inspiring atmosphere has been created by large windows, which contrast with the dark corners of our brick arcade basement. Our hostel is located above the History Museum of Pharmaceutics. The museum preserves on oits ground floor ceiling in Baroque Stuccowork. In this house had been functioning since 1568, one of the chemist's shop from Sibiu, where the creator of the homeopathy Samuel Hahnemann activated.
(269) 216445  
Pensiunea Gasthof Clara, Str. Raului, nr. 24 in Sibiu
(269) 222914  
Pensiunea Erlenpark, str. Octavian Goga, nr. 77 in Sibiu
(269) 224540  
Pensiunea Casa Luxemburg, Piata Mica nr. 16 in Sibiu
(269) 216854  
Pensiunea Casa Baciu, str. 9 Mai nr. 29 in Sibiu
(269) 214701  
Pensiunea Casa Anca, Calea Turnisorului nr 98 in Sibiu
(269) 228200  
Pensiunea Tosca, str. Ana Ipatescu Nr.51 in Sibiu
(269) 230395  
Pensiunea Zora, str.E. A. Bieltz nr. 86 in Sibiu
(269) 229227  
Pensiunea Emigrantul, str. Calea Cisnadiei Nr.8 in Sibiu
(269) 443752  
Hotel Bulevard, Piata Unirii nr 10 in Sibiu
(269) 216060  
Vila Santa Maria, str. Livezii nr. 43 in Sibiu
(269) 224451  
Pensiunea Costas, str. Vasile Milea nr. 26 in Sibiu
(269) 212411  
Pensiunea Flamingo, str Zorilor nr. 15 in Sibiu
(269) 230860  
Hotel Sport, Str. Octavian Goga nr. 2 in Sibiu
(269) 233673  
Pensiunea Verena, str. Anton Pann, nr. 12 in Sibiu
(269) 233355  
Pensiunea Podul Minciunilor, str. Azilului, nr. 1 in Sibiu
(269) 217259  
Pensiunea La Bloc, str. Anton Pann nr. 25 in Sibiu
744 258615  
Pensiunea Halemadero, str. Masarilor, nr. 10 in Sibiu
(269) 212509  
Pensiunea Casa Arcas, str. 16 Februarie, nr. 2A in Sibiu
(269) 432578  
Pensiunea Beatrice, str. Magheranului nr.103 in Sibiu
(269) 224820  

 

 
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The History and Culture -- What Happened and Why?
==HISTORY===================================  
This website is a general tourist guide, designed to help English-speaking tourists understand Romania, and as such, provides historical information for the interest of our traveller readers.  History can be a contentious issue, and we welcome input where readers think clarification or correction is advisable.  Please e-mail us here if you have questions or comments about anything in this history section.
Fresco in the Sibiu Cathedral (Trinity)
Modern Fresco in the Trinity Cathedral in Sibiu
The photo immediately preceding this notice is Copyright (c)2005 - 2008 Rest Romania SRL, All rights reserved. Photo: © REST ROMĀNIA

History

The city was founded in 1190 by Saxon colonists settled in the area. It was probably built near a Roman settlement, one that would have come to be known during early medieval age as Caedonia, which might have been deserted at the time of the Saxons' arrival.

In the 14th century, it was already an important trade centre. In 1376 the craftsmen were divided in 19 guilds. Sibiu became the most important ethnic German city among the seven cities that gave Transylvania its German language name of Siebenbürgen, and it was home to the Universitas Saxorum, the Assembly of Germans in Transylvania. Common opinion in the 17th century ascribed Sibiu the quality of being the easternmost city to be part of the European sphere; it was also the eastern terminus of postal routes.

During the 18th and 19th centuries the city also became one of the most important centres for ethnic Romanians in the region.

The first Romanian-owned bank had its headquarters here (The Albina Bank), as did the ASTRA (Transylvanian Association for Romanian Literature and Romanian's People Culture).
After the Romanian Orthodox Church was granted status in the Habsburg Empire from the 1860s onwards, Sibiu became the Metropolitan seat, and the city preserved its title as the third most important centre for the Church in modern Romania. Between the 1848 Hungarian

Revolution and 1867 (the year of the Ausgleich), Sibiu was the meeting-place of the Transylvanian Diet, which had taken its most representative form after the Empire agreed to extend voting rights in the region.

After World War I, when Austria-Hungary was dissolved, Sibiu became part of Romania; the majority of its population was still ethnic German and Hungarian. After 1990 most of the city's ethnic Germans emigrated to Germany. Among the roughly 2,000 who have remained is Klaus Johannis, who is currently mayor of Sibiu.

 Milestones in Sibiu's history
  • 1292 - The first hospital in what is now Romania was opened.
  • 1380 - The first attested school in what is now Romania.
  • 1494 - The first pharmacy in what is now Romania.
  • 1534 - The first paper mill in what is now Romania.
  • 1544 - The first book in the Romanian language was printed in Sibiu.
  • 1551 - Conrad Haas' experiment with rockets.
  • 1671 - Methane gas was discovered near Sibiu.
  • 1782 - Franz Joseph Müller discovered tellurium.
  • 1795 - The first lightning rod in South-eastern Europe was installed in Cisnădie.
  • 1797 - Samuel von Hahnemann opened the world's first homeopathic laboratory.
  • 1817 - The Brukenthal Museum, the first museum in what is now Romania, was opened.
  • 1896 - The first use of electricity in Romania, and the first power line in South-eastern Europe.
  • 1904 - The second city in Europe to use an electric-powered trolley.
  • 1928 - The first zoo in Romania.
  • 1989 - The second city in to take part in the Romanian Revolution.

 

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==LINKS=================================== Read More about this Great Area with some of these Interesting and Informatative Links!

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==INTRODUCTION===================================

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Thanks for Reading our Information about Sibiu in Transilvania!

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