Râșnov Citadel

Râșnov Citadel is a fortified complex on a limestone hill in Brașov County, Romania. Stone walls measuring about five meters in height enclose the site, with watchtowers at the corners overlooking the surrounding land.

The first mention comes from the year 1335, when the fortress protected inhabitants from Tatar invasions. It remained unconquered until 1612, when attackers discovered a hidden route to the defenders' water source.

The name derives from the German designation Rosenau and points to the Saxon settlers of this region. Locals use the site for school trips and folk festivals that take place between the old walls.

The entrance is on the eastern side of the hill and passes through an old gate with stone steps leading inside. Once at the top, you can walk between the residential buildings and defensive towers and enjoy views of the town below.

At the center of the complex lies a well 98 meters deep, which residents dug into the rock by hand. It supplied drinking water during sieges for years, until opponents found the hidden access to an outside spring.