Bihor, Medieval fortress in Târgu Neamț, Romania.
Bihor is a medieval fortification perched on Timus Rock in Târgu Neamț, Romania, with walls more than three meters thick made from river stones and green sandstone. The structure rises above the town and still displays its original polygonal layout with solid towers at the corners.
Prince Petru I of Moldavia ordered the construction of this stronghold in the late 14th century as part of a defense network against Ottoman advances. Later rulers, especially Ștefan cel Mare, reinforced the site and turned it into a central stronghold during the conflicts of the 15th century.
The name Cetatea Neamț refers to the ancient tribal region where the stronghold was raised, connecting the site to early Romanian identity. Visitors today walk through chambers that once housed soldiers and administrators who lived within these walls for months during military campaigns.
Access involves a steep path that climbs from the center of Târgu Neamț up to the rock, requiring sturdy footwear. The site lies near National Road DN15 and can also be reached by public transport from the town's railway station.
The stronghold withstood a siege by Mehmed II in 1476 because Ștefan cel Mare had installed artillery platforms and reinforced defense lines beforehand. These improvements made the structure one of the few places in the region able to resist Ottoman assaults.
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