Citadel of Cluj-Napoca

The Citadel of Cluj-Napoca is a star-shaped fortress perched on a hill above the city with multiple bastions and fortification walls. The structure spans the terrain across different levels that connect together and offer viewing points.

The fortress was built between 1715 and 1735 under Austrian rule to secure control over Cluj-Napoca after Transylvania became Austrian territory. It was created during a time when the region was redefining its borders and military structures were needed.

The name comes from its original role as a protective stronghold above the city below. Today the walls and open spaces tell stories of different people and events that took place there.

Reaching the fort involves walking up marked paths through a park that leads to multiple viewpoints. Wear comfortable shoes since the ground is uneven with several steps to climb.

The structure is the first Vauban-style fortress in Transylvania designed by an Italian architect who later created the Alba-Iulia fortress. This architectural connection makes it an example of the European fortification trends of that era.