The defense strategy used by the city of Brașov since the 15th century included, among the built fortifications, the Graft Bastion. In addition to playing an important role in maintaining the connection between the White Tower and the soldiers, it actively contributed to the defense against the invaders. Today it is one of the tourist attractions visited by people from all over the world.

History and presentation

Built between 1515 and 1521, the Graft Bastion was specially designed to maintain the connection between the White Tower and the soldiers in the fortress. Due to its gate-shaped structure, it is also called the Gate Bastion, being a famous tourist attraction of the city.

The maintenance of the Graft Bastion was ensured from the financial funds of the saddler's guild. From here came the money for his defense, extremely important at that time. This was due to its strategic position, located right in the middle of the northwest side of the fortress. For this reason, the defense possibilities of the area have been greatly improved.

Starting with the 16th century, the wall of the fortress on the north-west side benefits from an external wall that doubles it. During the entire architectural project, the waters that left Șchei and flowed into a canal, located at the foot of the wall, were also included.

Strategically, the Graft Bastion is a bridge over a canal. It had a thickness of up to 4 meters at the base, being at the same time structured on two floors, next to a bridge. The floors had firing holes, as well as fuel oil holes that can be admired even today. To reach the White Tower, a bridge was used to climb the slope to it. From here, the defenders used a ladder that they lowered to make their way into the tower.

Curiosities

The Graft Bastion was no exception to less pleasant moments and events that later remained significant in its history. These include:

• August 24, 1809 - due to a torrential rain, the outer wall was weakened. In order to keep the level of defense high, in 1822, three support arches were built over the stream;

• twentieth century - the wall was broken, as a result of the need to ensure the second exit of the former Corso cinema, now Royal;

• 20th century - a house was built for Friederich Czell, after which two arches were destroyed.

Following the renovations in 2005, a section of the Brașov County History Museum was arranged in the Graft Bastion. Here, you can find elements related to the craftsmen from Brașov, also considered defenders of the fortress. There is also a shop full of handicrafts.

The exhibition is located on the second floor and houses a number of weapons, armor and ammunition that were used in the defense of the fortress. In addition, there are documents and photographs related to the medieval buildings of Brașov.

visiting

The Graft Bastion in Brașov is located on Aleea After the Walls and can be visited from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10:00 and 18:00.

Established rates

For visiting the Graft Bastion, the following fees are charged:

• Adult ticket - 7 lei;

• Retirement ticket - 4 lei;

• Ticket for students, pupils and preschoolers - 1.5 lei;

• People with disabilities receive free admission.