Brasov is a municipality located in the centre of Romania, about 161 kilometres from Bucharest and 271 kilometres from Cluj-Napoca. Situated in the Brasov Depression at an average altitude of 625 metres, the city enjoys a strategic geographical position. Throughout history, Brasov has been a meeting place for the roads connecting the various historical Romanian territories, acting as a true bridge between cultures and nationalities. Today, Brasov continues to be a centre of circulation and a place of cultural symbiosis between Romanians and other nationalities, being the most important city in the central development region.
Its favourable geographical position and abundant natural and cultural resources make Brasov an attractive destination for both Romanian and foreign tourists. Nearby there are places of tourist importance, such as Predeal, Bușteni, Sinaia, Făgăraș and Sighișoara, which are worth visiting.
Brasov benefits from an extensive network of access roads. It is an important railway hub and a crossroads for national roads. It now also has an airport called Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport located 12 km from Brașov.
Situated at an average altitude of 625 metres, Brasov is located in the Brasov Depression, surrounded by the beauty of the Carpathians. The Piatra Mare and Postăvarul massifs rise nearby, while the Tâmpa, Straja and Dealul Cetății hills surround it from three sides. The city covers an area of about 167 square kilometres.
Several rivers flow through the town, such as the Șcheiu (also known as the Graft River), the Tei Valley, the Răcădău Valley, the Plopilor Valley with the Short Valley, the Florilor Valley, the Gorganu, the Timiș River and the Timiș Canal. These rivers contribute to the beauty of the natural landscape around the city.
The flora of Brasov is similar to that of Brasov county. Although the area is urbanised, forests and green spaces can be found around the town. However, wild animals are rare and retreat to the surrounding forests. Tourists should be aware that they may encounter species such as bears, wolves or foxes in the region. There are two national parks near Brasov, Piatra Craiului and Bucegi, and 30 other protected areas, including Mount Tâmpa. It is declared a nature reserve and is home to several rare plant species, including areas of steppe vegetation on the southern slopes. The areas designated as protected areas total 27,313.7 hectares, which is about 7% of the area of Brasov county.
Both mountain and lowland streams are home to various species of fish, such as trout, lipan and moray eels.
In the forests of the area, biodiversity is rich, hosting various species of amphibians, reptiles, birds (such as the common and the shod dormouse, white and black stork, partridge, grouse and eagle), as well as mammals (such as black goat, bear, deer, wild boar and lynx).
The climate in Brasov county is temperate-continental. Summers are mild, with temperatures between 22 and 27 degrees Celsius, while winters can bring temperatures between -18 and -2 degrees Celsius. In Poiana Brasov, a nearby mountain resort, winters bring cold temperatures down to -15 degrees Celsius, making the area perfect for winter sports. The town enjoys about 50 summer days a year and about 90 winter days. The average snow cover is 71 days per year.
The city of Brasov has grown in population with its economic development and expansion. Currently, the city's population is estimated at about 237,589 inhabitants, which places it in 6th place among the largest cities in Romania.
Brasov has a rich history and was first documented in 1235 under the Latin name "Corona" or in German "Kronstadt", which means "Crown City". It was one of the most important towns in Transylvania in the Middle Ages and an economic stronghold during the 14th-16th centuries. Founded on an ancient Dacian site, Brasov was chosen by the Saxons as one of the seven fortified fortresses of Transylvania. Today, the town's medieval atmosphere is preserved and delights tourists visiting this historic destination.
The city's architecture is composed of an impressive fusion of styles and eras. Brasov's fortress, surrounded by massive walls, is a testament to the medieval era and houses well-preserved historic buildings. Over the centuries, architects have left their mark on the city, from the Gothic style of the Black Church to Baroque and Renaissance influences in the architecture of the buildings in the Council Square. A walk through the historic centre will take you on a journey back in time, revealing the city's rich architectural heritage.
Brasov is a paradise for lovers of outdoor activities. In summer, you can enjoy hiking and mountain trekking in the Carpathian Mountains surrounding the city. Poiana Brasov is a renowned ski resort, but also a great destination for hiking and summer sports.
In winter, Poiana Brasov becomes a lively ski resort with slopes for all levels of experience. Brasov also offers a wide range of sporting activities, from cycling to horse riding and adventure parks.
Brasov is emblematic for its multiculturalism. Founded by Saxon settlers, the city was divided into three suburbs outside the walls of the "Citadel," each inhabited by a different community: Romanians, Hungarians and Saxon peasants, as Johannes Honterus, a Saxon humanist and reformer, recounted in the 16th century. The urban character of the "Fortress of Brasov" was highlighted from the outset by its location in the Tâmpei Valley, an area devoid of agricultural land. The suburbs have long retained a predominantly rural character, reflected in the architecture.
Old Brasov, also known as Altstadt or Óbrassó, developed around the seigniorial residence on St Martin's Hill and the church of St Bartholomew, built after the Mongol invasion of 1241, alongside the Sprenghi fortress. The Blumăna district, inhabited mainly by Szeklers, is located in the eastern part of the town. In the western part, we find the old Romanian district of Șcheii Brașovului, with the Church of Saint Nicholas (1399) and the school, developed over time with the help of the rulers of the Transcarpathian area.
In Brasov, cultural and artistic history is marked by personalities whose homes are now museums, memorial houses, art galleries or public monuments. The Council Square, known as the city's "kilometre 0", is the centre of cultural life, hosting numerous events.
In this central area, there are several museums and memorial houses in historic buildings, including the Council House, the Museum of Urban Civilisation, the Memorial Museum "Casa Muresenilor" and the "Georghe Dima" Hall. Near the Council Square is the Black Church, which houses an important collection of oriental carpets, two major organs and has been the centre of the city's musical life for over 60 years.
Significant cultural events have taken place in Brasov, such as the staging of composer Ciprian Porumbescu's first operetta "Crai Nou" and the place where Deacon Coresi printed many books in Romanian in the 16th century.
Brasov is also home to the headquarters of the "Gheorghe Dima" Philharmonic and the "Arlechino" Children's Theatre, as well as the "Reduta" Concert House. The Rectorate of the "Transilvania" University and other notable cultural institutions are located nearby.
Brasov offers a lot of sights worth visiting. These include:
1. Council Square: A picturesque central square, where you can admire the city's historic architecture and enjoy the cafes and terraces.
2. Art Museum: An impressive collection of Romanian and European art
3. History Museum: An insight into the history of the city and the region.
4. Brasov Fortress: A medieval fortress offering a panoramic view of the city.
5. Strada Sforii: The narrowest street in Europe.
6. Black Church: A jewel of Gothic architecture.
7. Neolog Synagogue: An important place of worship for the local Jewish community.
8. Palace of Justice: An imposing edifice with grand architecture.
9. Catherine Gate: A vestige of medieval fortifications.
10. Mount Tâmpa: A perfect destination for hiking and spectacular views of the city.
These are just some of the sights you can discover in Brasov. A visit to this city will delight you with its rich history, natural beauty and the hospitality of its inhabitants. For more details about these attractions and to find out how to visit them, you can visit the dedicated pages on our website.
A visit to Brasov will give you an exciting experience and leave you with unforgettable memories. However, it is important to plan your visit carefully, explore all the beautiful aspects of this city and fully enjoy what it has to offer.