Exploring the citadel above the city and its spectacular panoramas
The Fortress on the Watchtower is well worth a visit, even though its interior is currently undergoing restoration. Visitors can still admire the impressive outer walls and, above all, the magnificent views from the hilltop. Until the Fortress reopens, you can enjoy a selection of photographs I took during the brief period when it was accessible to the public.
I will guide you step by step to make the entire journey simple and enjoyable. Although the Fortress has its own parking area, we are strong supporters of exploring a city on foot, so our walk begins once again at the Livada Postei bus terminal. From here, we cross into Nicolae Titulescu Park, where we can pause for a moment to enjoy the Dancing Fountain and its accompanying music. Nearby, we cross Nicolae Iorga Street and begin the ascent along Furcii Street. The route is clearly marked throughout, with signposts guiding the way at every stage.
At the intersection, I prefer taking the path on the right for the climb and returning via the other route. Just off Mihai Eminescu Street, near number 10, there is a small gate where a long staircase begins. With a determined climb up the steps, we eventually reach Cetatuia Street.
From here, only a short uphill stretch remains before we arrive at the Fortress’s barrier gate. Surrounding the Fortress is a small themed park that is also worth a leisurely stroll. An information board provides details about the site and a map of the trails. At the first bend beyond the panel, a path branches off to the left. This is the route we will later follow back to the city along Aleea Cetatea Straja, but for now we continue straight toward the Fortress entrance.
Once the restoration work is completed, and I will certainly keep an eye on the progress and post an update when the time comes, The Fortress is sure to look magnificent. As many of the photographs will show, the restoration was badly needed. The Fortress had been neglected for many years and was also the subject of lengthy ownership disputes, including court proceedings, before returning to the ownership of the City of Brasov in 2023.
I was delighted when the Fortress briefly reopened to visitors, as it gave me the chance to wander through its inner courtyards and pathways. Most memorable of all were the panoramic views from the summit: the rooftops of Brasov, the forested slopes of Tampa Mountain, and the endless landscape stretching far beyond the horizon.
The Fortress was built in several stages beginning in the 15th century. The earliest fortifications were made of wood, and over the centuries the fortress endured destruction, fire, reconstruction, and repeated renovations. The four corner bastions were added and completed in 1631. The major renovation carried out in 1773 during the reign of Emperor Joseph II gave The Fortress the form that has largely survived to the present day.
The buildings within the fortress have served a variety of purposes over time, including, during the communist era, functioning as a restaurant. Today, although the interior remains closed, visitors can still walk around the outside of the walls. On one of the bastions, you will spot the famous Crown of Brasov, the symbol that gave the city its Latin name, Corona, and its German name, Kronstadt. Before leaving, take one final moment to admire the spectacular views in every direction.
We then begin our descent back to the city along Aleea Cetatea Straja. The path winds through the forest and still preserves long stretches of its original cobblestone surface, though not continuously, so careful footing is recommended, especially after rain. Even so, it is an easy and pleasant walk, and before long it brings us back to Mihai Eminescu Street, completing a rewarding visit to one of Brasov’s most fascinating historic landmarks.
I can’t wait to see the wonderful Fortress on the Watchtower again—fully renovated, welcoming, and wide open to the public.
Leave a Reply