Sighisoara & Viscri

During the 12th century, the Transylvanian Saxons built a new citadel which was named Schäßburg. Sighisoara (Schäßburg - Schassburg or Schäsbrich in German) still stands as one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this perfectly intact 16th century gem with nine towers, cobbled streets, burgher houses and ornate churches, It is also the birthplace of Vlad Draculea, also known as Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler), ruler of the province of Walachia from 1456 to 1462. It was he who inspired Bram Stoker's fictional creation, Count Dracula.

Arriving late yesterday afternoon in Viscri, one of the best preserved Saxon villages in Transylvania. and a UNESCO site. Our first visit was to the house owned by King Charles, he purchased the house in 2006 and stayed here whilst his second property was renovated in Zalanpak. Today, it’s run as a museum and as Patron of the Mihai Eminescu Trust together with other investments ensures that the preservation of the area remains.

We spent a peaceful night in the free carpark at Viscri. Besides the house the other attraction is a medieval fortified church, the village with cobbled lanes, cornflour blue houses, and the rattle of horse drawn carts, is like stepping back in time. Visiting the church this morning, the sun had come out, unlike yesterday, we had another wander around the sprawling village, such a lovely peaceful place, people waving or saying “good morning” they really do welcome you.