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History of Râșnov Fortress. The Legend of the Fountain and Other Curiosities
Situated in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, Râșnov Fortress is an exceptional fortified ensemble that stands on a limestone hill in the town of Râșnov, offering a delightful view of the region. Once you step inside this medieval fortress, you will be transported back in time and have the opportunity to relive the history of this place. The high walls and massive towers, which have endured for centuries, invite you to explore their mysteries and secrets. The bastions and the museum open the doors to a captivating history, where each exhibited object has its own story to tell.
So, whether you are passionate about history or want to relax in the middle of nature, Râșnov Fortress promises to offer you an unforgettable experience. Discover everything you need to know before visiting it from this article!
Brief history of Râșnov Fortress
The history of Râșnov Fortress tells a story that spans several centuries and is full of fascinating events. It continues to captivate and inspire tourists even today, making the fortress a true cultural landmark of the region.
The first mention of the peasant fortress of Râșnov dates back to 1335, during a Tatar invasion of Țara Bârsei. In those tumultuous times, the whole region was heavily affected, but the fortress of Râșnov remained standing, alongside the fortifications on the Tampa Hill in Brasov. Due to its solid and well-maintained walls, it ensured the survival of the inhabitants who sought refuge within its walls.
Over the centuries, this fortress was besieged several times by Ottoman and Tatar troops. However, even in the most challenging circumstances, its inhabitants and defenders continued to fight, demonstrating courage, determination, and sacrifice.
In 1612, the fortress was occupied by Gabriel Bathory, the Prince of Transylvania, in a military campaign against the Transylvanian Saxons. Under the pressure of his army, the leaders of the Rasnov community surrendered the fortress hoping that their old privileges would continue to be respected. Subsequent attempts to recapture it followed and in 1613 Rasnov regained control after an agreement with Gabriel Bathory.
The subsequent period brought new challenges for both the fortress and its inhabitants. The campaign of the Turkish troops, along with Constantin Brancoveanu’s army and the subsequent plague epidemic that followed brought much suffering, affecting the entire community. However, the fortress regained its strength and continued to be used in the 18th century. These events highlight the resilience and strength of the Rasnov community in the face of historical adversities.
One of the remarkable moments was the discovery of a treasure in 2001, which had been hidden for over 400 years near one of the stone towers at the entrance to the fortress. Inside the thesaurus were silver coins and other valuable items, thus providing evidence of the wealth and economic of the wealth and economic importance of the period.
The legend of the fountain in the Citadel courtyard

After the battles of 1612, there was a need to ensure a stable source of water, which led to the impressive well being dug directly into the rock in the center of the citadel. The story of this well hides impressive historical facts, which have created a true mystery around it and intrigued numerous generations.
One of the most well-known legends about Râșnov suggests that it was dug by two Turkish prisoners who were promised freedom in exchange for their work. According to this legend, they worked hard for years and while digging the well they wrote verses from the Koran on the walls. When they reached a depth of 146 meters, they discovered the water and were released as promised. However, historical documents and research contradict this legend, revealing that the well was built by local craftsmen, and that their work took many decades. Thus, the story of the two prisoners remains a myth, but it continues to fascinate regarding the origins and mysterious past of the fountain in the courtyard of the fortress of Rasnov.
Another legend suggests that during the siege of the fortress, the inhabitants threw sacks full of gold coins into the well, which are said to still be there. Alongside this monetary treasure, there is also the story that the well is actually a secret tunnel. One end of the tunnel is said to connect to the town center and the other one is located at the Evangelical Church.
Seven years ago, the Râșnov Town Hall hired climbers to clean the fountain and they found things that were unusual for that time: two cannonballs, arrowheads, and ceramic objects.
However, even with these discoveries, the true purpose of the fountain still remains unclear, and questions continue to arise in the minds of all who visit.
What activities you can do – Routes and sights
Certainly, you’ve probably wondered about the remarkable places worth visiting in Râșnov. This wonderful town is full of fascinating sights that will instantly captivate you. If you’re drawn to adventure and natural landscapes, the surroundings of Rasnov are the ideal choice for you.
Elevator ride
The Swiss lift offers a spectacular view of Râșnov and reveals captivating landscapes. Its ride has a total length of 165 meters and the journey takes about two minutes, with a cabin traveling at a speed of 2.5 meters per second.
The Old Town
Don’t miss the ride through the historic center of Râșnov! Here you will be impressed by the traditional architecture of the buildings and feel the authentic Romanian atmosphere. You can also enjoy delicious local cuisine at one of the many terraces and restaurants in the area.
Dino Park
Dino Park near the center of Râșnov is an exciting attraction for the whole family. With over 50 life-size dinosaurs and an area of 3.5 ha, this theme park offers an educational and fun experience. Visitors can explore the trail among realistic representations of dinosaurs and enjoy different activities such as fossil digging or zip line adventures and climbing trails for a healthy dose of adrenaline and outdoor movement.
Fortress Valley Cave
The Fortress Valley Cave awaits you with an amazing natural decor, consisting of impressive rock formations and fascinating underground galleries. Here, you can explore the underground world admiring stalactites and stalagmites, feeling the adrenaline rush of exploring an unknown world. The affordable price of 20 lei for adults and 10 lei for children makes the experience even more appealing to visitors.
The Râșnoavei Gorges
The Râșnoavei Gorges are known for their spectacular rock formations, which attract nature and adventure lovers. Here, enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, bungee jumping, or simply a walk through the breathtaking scenery. Local attractions include the Daffodil Glade, a protected area where in spring you can admire fields blooming with wild daffodils. It is truly an experience worth having for once in your life.
Zărnești Bear Reserve
Zărnești Bear Reserve, located near Râșnov, is a sanctuary dedicated to bears rescued from captivity or poor conditions. Here, these bears rescued from zoos, circuses, or private conditions receive proper care and optimal living conditions. Visitors can explore the reserve on guided tours, where they can learn more about the history of each bear and help support them by purchasing souvenirs.
Râșnov – Râșnoavei Cave trail
The route to the Râșnov Cave starts from the town, on Romulus Cristoloveanu Street, and continues on an asphalted road to St. Nicholas Church, from where it turns into a forest road. To explore the cave, which is less than 400 meters long, waterproof equipment such as boots or wellies, a torch, and a small rucksack are required. It is recommended to be accompanied by a guide or an experienced person, as there are areas where you will have to crawl and the cave can flood quite often.
Fortress Valley – Rasnavava Cave Route
The route to the Râșnoavei Cave starts from the parking area on DN1E, which serves the Râșnov Fortress. After crossing the national road, you will climb a concrete path for about 100 meters, venturing through a beautiful beech forest and reaching a mountain saddle, which will give you a spectacular view over the Bârsei Country and Piatra Craiului Mountains. The trail is marked with a “blue cross” and meets several forest roads, but it is essential to follow the markings to avoid getting lost. Access to the Râșnoavei Cave is free, but entry can be difficult and requires experience, especially in heavy rain, when the cave can easily flood.
Glajeriei Valley – Mălăiești Hut trail
For this hike, you can start from Râșnov by car on the Valea Glăjăriei and park near the starting point on the trail, at the barrier delimiting the Bucegi Natural Park. From here, follow the trail marked with the blue stripe, which will take you in about 3-3 hours and 30 minutes to the hut. You can also choose other mountain trails from the Bucegi Natural Park.
How do you get to Râșnov Citadel and what is the visiting schedule?
Râșnov Fortress is easily accessible from various directions and is definitely worth including in your itinerary.
Here’s how to get there:
From the entrance to the town of Râșnov, on Unirii Boulevard, you will ascend via serpentine road for approximately 15 minutes until you reach the gates of the Râșnov Fortress. The road can be traveled by car. There is a paid parking lot at the base of the fortress.
It is important to note that the fortress can only be visited outside at the moment, due to renovation works.
Visiting schedule and entrance fees at the Râșnov Fortress:
This tourist attraction can be visited daily between 09:00-19:00 and the entrance fee is 10 lei/adult, 5 lei/child or student (max. 18 years old), and 3 lei/school groups.
Other important things to know are:
- Photography or filming fee: 5 lei
- Binoculars rental fee (available at the observation point of the Fortress): 2 lei
Therefore, Râșnov Fortress is not just a tourist attraction. It is a place that invites you to get lost in its fascinating stories, connect with the roots of these lands, and live a truly memorable experience. So take the time to take in the atmosphere and enjoy every detail!
Frequently asked questions and answers
Q: Who built the Râșnov Citadel?
The Râșnov Fortress was originally built by the Saxons and the Teutonic Knights between 1211 and 1225.
Q: What do you use to climb Râșnov Citadel?
There are 3 options to get to Râșnov Fortress: walking, using the means of transport, or using your car.
Source: infoghidromania.com, ghidlocal.com, wikipedia.org