Sibiu is one of the most important cities in Romania, located in Transylvania, and it has a rich history that dates back to medieval times. It was an outpost of the Romanians centuries ago, and today it is an important cultural and economic centre. Its old town, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with old buildings and cobbled streets, a testimony to the city’s past. The city is also known for its art, museums and traditional cuisine. Sibiu is a district in Romania, situated south of radius of the Mures River, north of the Olt River and east of the Retezat and Parang mountains. The district is the second largest in the Sibiu County, having an area of 3,653 square kilometers and a population of over 450,000 people. The district has an impressive overview from its main city, Sibiu. It is home to many important cultural and historical landmarks, including the first Transylvanian church, 13th-century Biertan fortress, the largest inhabited medieval citadel in Europe, plus numerous churches, towers and monuments. Apart from being a great tourist destination, the district is also known for its rich agricultural heritage. The land is full of vineyards, cattle farms, sheep farms and orchards, and a lot of the products are exported to the major cities in Romania.
Sibiu is the capital of the Sibiu district in Romania. It is located in the central part of Romania, on the Cibin River, approximately 120 km northwest of Bucharest. The city has an estimated population of 148,938 (2011), making it the 14th most populous city in Romania. The Old Town of Sibiu is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city is one of the most important cultural, industrial, and financial centres in the region. Its economy is mainly related to services, IT and automotive manufacturing.
The best way to get to Sibiu District from where you are is to take a bus or a train. Depending on your location, there may be different routes available. You can check online for specific routes and schedules. Alternatively, you can also rent a car or take a taxi to reach Sibiu District.
1. Sibiu Old Town – This picturesque old town is one of the most important and well-preserved historical sites in Romania. Rich in medieval architecture, the old town of Sibiu is an UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding universal value.
2. ASTRA National Museum Complex – Located in Sibiu, this is the largest open-air museum in Romania, showcasing traditional rural life and architecture of Transylvania. The vast number of wooden churches, fortified churches, peasant households, as well as craftsman workshops make this museum a one of a kind open-air ethnographic exhibition.
3. Brukenthal Palace – Built in the 18th century, the Brukenthal Palace is a Baroque palace located in the old center of Sibiu. It houses the Brukenthal National Museum, one of the oldest museums in Romania, founded in 1817.
4. The sculptures of Emil Pop – Emil Pop is a world-renowned Romanian sculptor who was born in Sibiu. His work is present all over Sibiu, featuring intriguing artwork that commemorates the city’s history as well as its diverse culture.
5. The Sibiu Citadel – Built in the 12th century by the Transylvanian Saxons, the Sibiu Citadel is one of the most important fortification complexes in Romania. This architectural gem of Romania stands as a symbol of a prosperous medieval past.
6. The Bridge of Lies – This is a small bridge located near the entrance of the old citadel from the inner side. According to legend, anyone who told a lie while standing on the bridge would plunge into the Cibin River below.
1. Brukenthal National Museum – Located in the city of Sibiu, this museum is housed in a former palace of the Brukenthal family, who were one of the wealthiest families in Transylvania. It’s a great place to learn about the art, history and culture of Romania.
2. Piata Mare – The main square of the old city of Sibiu, this is a great place to spend some time exploring the history and culture of the city. The iconic building Tower of the Council is located here and the square is surrounded by several old buildings such as the Brukenthal Palace, the Haller and Radu Stanca Houses and the Nicolae Balcescu House.
3. Citadel of Sibiu – This is a medieval fortress that was built in the 12th century and offers great views of the city. It is also home to the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization, a great place to learn the history and culture of Romania.
4. ASTRA Open Air Folk Museum – This is a large open-air museum, almost a hundred hectares in size and it is home to over 300 traditional wooden houses, churches and windmills. It is a fantastic way to learn about the traditional folk way of life in Romania.
5. ASTRA National Museum Complex – This is home to 8 museums, all of which are focused on different aspects of Romanian history and culture. The complex is also home to an IMAX theater and botanical garden.
6. Sibiu Zoo – Located in the south part of the city, this is a great place to see interesting animals in their natural habitats. It also features a botanical garden and a planetarium.
• Visit the Brukenthal National Museum – This museum houses works of fine and applied art and helps visitors learn more about the history of the city and its culture.
• Enjoy the panoramic view from the Council Tower – This 17th century tower is the highest structure in the old city center.
• Go shopping at Piața Mare – This large square at the heart of Sibiu provides plenty of shopping opportunities and showcases the city’s traditional architecture.
• Say hello to the animal friends at Zoo Sibiu – The zoo covers an area of 15 hectares and offers a range of fun activities for the whole family.
• meander along the Liars’ Bridge – This iconic bridge located in the Lower Town area of Sibiu is home to some interesting complex interlocking brick arches.
• Catch the Sibiu Philharmonic Orchestra in concert – This world-famous orchestra performs in the Great Square of Sibiu.
• Explore the Unirii Square – This large and lively square is at the center of the old city and provides visitors with plenty of opportunity to take in the beauty of the city.
• Hit the parks – Sibiu offers plenty of green spaces such as Parcul Sub Arini, Eminescu Park and the Astra Park, where visitors can relax and enjoy some fresh air.
• Take part in the nightlife – Sibiu is packed with bars, pubs and clubs for visitors who are interested in having some fun.