Streets squares and districts to visit Braşov

This is the heart of the old town. Council Square takes its name from the Council of One Hundred Citizens, which once governed the city and met here. Called Marktplatz by the Saxons, it's probably one of the most beautiful pedestrian squares in Romania, beautifully paved and with a fountain. It's surrounded by solid, colorful houses, each with a shop or restaurant on the first floor, some with pleasant terraces. In the center, the Council House(Casa Sfatului) dates back to 1420, but has undergone numerous alterations over the centuries. Badly damaged by the great fire of 1689, it underwent major restoration work at the end of the 18th^century , and was remodeled in the Baroque style it retains today. The 48-meter-high tower was added in 1528 and restored in 1910. This former town hall now houses temporary exhibitions, as well as the History Museum. Here, you can familiarize yourself with the town's history, through medieval documents relating to the various trade guilds, while contemplating the square from above. Back on the cobblestones, notice the vast orange medieval-style building, whose color contrasts so well with the dark green backdrop of the Tâmpa hill forest. Known as Casa Hirscher (or Casa Negustorilor, the Merchants' House), it was built in 1545 by the widow of a nobleman, Apollonia Hirscher, who turned it into the town's covered market.

This large village-like district is different from the medieval Saxon center, and for good reason. It was the only part of the city where, for centuries, the Romanians of Brașov were allowed to live, while the Saxons had most of the city. Romanians could only enter the center at certain times, subject to a toll. The fairly straight streets of the Saxon quarters are contrasted by narrow lanes winding between the hills, lined with small houses. To get there, pass through Poarta Șchei, at the end of the street of the same name.