Continuing through the mountains, from Poiana Brasov you will reach Rasnov. Even if Bran, only 12 km to the south, attracts all tourists – especially those who come with organized tours – Rasnov is well worth a stop.
Rasnov Fortress is at first sight so imposing and visible from afar that it could easily be mistaken for Bran Castle. Built as a peasant fortress in the 17th century, it was one of the main places of refuge in the area. Although the structure no longer offers much to see, not being as well preserved as Bran, the exhibits are displayed in a way that sensitizes the senses. At the top of a rocky peak, the 360-degree panorama from the highest point offers beautiful views of Rasnov, the Bucegi Mountains and Piatra Craiului.
There is a legend attached to Râșnov Fortress. During a particularly long siege of the fortress, the citizens of Râșnov were concerned about the lack of available fresh drinking water. Two Turkish soldiers, having been captured earlier, were put to the task of digging a well in the centre of the fortress. These two men were assured that they would be given their freedom once the well was completed. According to local legend, it took them 17 years to finish the well, but they were still killed afterwards. This famous well still sits in the centre of Râșnov Fortress, and is 143 metres deep.
Rasnov Fortress
The fortress was built as part of a defence system for the Transylvanian villages exposed to outside invasions. A decisive aspect for building the fortress at its location was the route of the invading armies which were coming from the Bran pass and were passing through Râșnov, on their way to Brașov and other parts of the Burzenland region. The only chance of survival for the inhabitants of the area, including from Cristian and Ghimbav, was the refuge inside the fortress at Râșnov. Compelled to stay there for decades, the people of Râșnov and the nearby villages turned the fortification into their long-term place of residence.
Last modified: November 14, 2022
