History of Brașov

Brașov (Hungarian: Brassó, German: Kronstadt) is one of the most important cities in Transylvania, located at the foot of the Southern Carpathians, in the region of Țara Bârsei (Burzenland). The city was founded in the 13th century by Saxon settlers, who were invited by the Hungarian Kingdom to strengthen border defenses and develop trade.

During the Middle Ages, Brașov developed rapidly and became a major commercial hub of Transylvania. Its defensive system—walls, towers, and bastions—was among the strongest in the region and successfully protected the city from Tatar and Ottoman attacks. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Brașov flourished as one of the wealthiest free royal cities of Transylvania, dominated by craft guilds and trade.

With the Reformation, most of the Saxon population adopted the Lutheran faith, and a strong Evangelical community took shape. At the same time, Romanian and Hungarian communities were also significant in the surrounding villages, making Brașov a historically multicultural city.

In the 19th century, Brașov’s industrialization gained momentum, and the construction of the railway gave a strong boost to its economy. In the 20th century, particularly during the communist period, the city became a major industrial center. Today, Brașov is one of Romania’s most dynamically developing cities, serving as an industrial, cultural, and tourist hub.

Population

Brașov has a population of nearly 250,000, making it the seventh-largest city in Romania. Its ethnic composition is diverse: Romanians form the majority, but there are also notable Hungarian, German (Saxon), and Roma communities. The Saxon population, once dominant, declined sharply in the second half of the 20th century, as many emigrated to Germany.

The Hungarian community is mainly Roman Catholic or Reformed, while the Romanian majority belongs to the Orthodox Church. Thanks to this mix, the city has a rich cultural and religious diversity, and multilingual schools and institutions operate here.

The population is youthful and active, supported by the presence of universities, economic opportunities, and a strong tourism sector. Although outward migration exists, the city’s dynamic growth helps retain many young professionals.

Economy

The economy of Brașov has traditionally been based on crafts, trade, and manufacturing. In the Middle Ages, the city was famous for its weapon makers, furriers, and its strategic position on trade routes crossing the Carpathians.

In the 20th century, Brașov became one of Romania’s main industrial centers, with industries such as aircraft production, truck and tractor manufacturing, machinery, textiles, and food processing. After 1989, many factories were closed or restructured, but the local economy adapted and modernized.

Today, Brașov’s economy relies on the automotive industry, IT, tourism, and services. Its location near the Carpathian Mountains makes it a prime destination for winter sports, mountain tourism, and eco-tourism. The Poiana Brașov ski resort is one of Romania’s best-known winter destinations, attracting both domestic and international visitors.

Buildings and Landmarks

Brașov’s historic city center is one of the most beautiful in Central Europe, known for its well-preserved medieval streets, churches, and fortifications.

• Black Church: The largest Gothic church in Transylvania, built in the 14th–15th centuries. Its name comes from its walls blackened by fire. The church is famous for its Ottoman carpets and monumental organ.
• Council House and Main Square (Piața Sfatului): The Council House stands in the middle of the main square, one of the city’s symbols. Around the square, colorful medieval and baroque houses create a unique atmosphere.
• City Walls and Towers: Large sections of the medieval defensive system remain, including the White Tower and the Black Tower, both offering spectacular views of the city.
• Catherine’s Gate: One of the surviving medieval gates of the city, symbolic and highly photogenic.
• Poiana Brașov: A mountain resort belonging to the city, popular for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Brașov’s cultural life is vibrant, featuring international festivals, theaters, museums, and university events. Its multicultural heritage, shaped by Saxon, Hungarian, and Romanian traditions, gives the city a unique character and enduring appeal.