The castle and fortified church of Prejmer, Brasov

Prejmer is a commune located 18 kilometers northeast from Brasov and it is composed of three villages: Lunca Calnicului, Prejmer and Stupinii Prejmerului.

The Fortified Evangelical Church was built in the 13th century on an ancient Roman basilica dating from the 12th century. The building has started in 1211 and was made by the Teutonic Knights, who received legal rights over this territory. Initially Roman Catholic, it became Lutheran following the Reformation.

The thick walls of 3-4 meters and 12 meters high, iron gates and bastions were built in 1427 by the order of King Sigismund, who wanted to defend the city from Turks attacks. The interior is provided with 272 rooms, on four floors, which could house the entire village in case of attack. The fortress was surrounded by deep ditches, which, in case of danger, were filled with water. Access to the citadel is made through a tunnel guarded by two strong gates, at one end and to the other. Saxons who sought refuge in here could resist, thanks to supplies, even 6 months during a siege.

Historical records certify that in its 500 years of existence Prejmer fortress was besieged 50 times. However, Prejmer Fortified Church was conquered only once, in 1611 by Gabriel Báthori, Prince of Transylvania. Besides the artillery (fixed in the walls), the fortress had an unusual battle device: the famous ‘death organ’ (orga mortii). It was made of several weapons that could shoot simultaneously, causing the enemy panic but severe losses, too.

The fortified church in Prejmer underwent a lot of changes, as did other monuments in Transylvania. But following the revamping works in the 1960s and 1970s, it has returned to its original appearance.

The Church is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Transylvania, being included on the UNESCO World Heritage list and labeled with 3 stars in the Michelin Green Guide.

Open: daily 9.00-15.00 (Sunday, Monday closed).