• Vršac, Serbia: A Small Eastern European City

    Vršac, Serbia: A Small Eastern European City

    After a not-very-long drive from the Romanian city of Timișoara, we have finally reached the small city of Vršac located in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, Serbia. This small city is not very far from the border with Romania making it easily accessible for travelers seeking a delightful cross-border experience.

    Once we were in the city, we decided to visit the castle first. The only road that we found that leads up to the castle was located outside the city, as you drive towards Mesić. Right next to a larger vineyard, you will have to make a left turn when you will see a sign that points to Vršačko Brdo.

    At the Vršac Castle

    The Vršac Castle or the Vršac Tower is a magnificent architectural marvel that has captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike for generations. This historic tower, a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the region, serves as a timeless reminder of the town’s past while also offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape and over the city as well.

    This tower, built in the 15th century, is not only a symbol of Vršac but also offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the vast vineyards that sprawl across the region. Climbing to the tower’s upper levels I’m sure that it rewards the visitors with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscape, including the rolling hills, vineyards, and the picturesque town itself. Unfortunately, when we were there, the castle was closed.

    The Vršac Castle.
    The small Vršac castle.
    Castle exterior with some tourists.
    A part of the castle.
    Cannon in front of Vršac Castle.
    An old cannon in overlooking the the vast plains.
    Vršac city as seen from the castle.
    A part of the city as seen from the castle.

    As you leave the city behind and drive towards the castle, you’ll venture into the countryside, you’ll be treated to rolling hills, fertile plains, and quaint villages that reflect the agrarian roots of the region. The road winds through vineyards and orchards, showcasing Serbia’s rich agricultural heritage. Behind the church from the image below is the road which leads up to he castle.

    Vineyard near the city.
    A large vineyard and the road leading to the up to the castle.

    Chapel of the Holy Cross

    After exploring the small castle located on top of a hill next to the city, we decided to make a short stop on our way to the city at Капела Светог Крста or Chapel of the Holy Cross. This is another place from where you will have the chance to admire the entire city of Vršac. From there, you can spot between the trees which surround the chapel the impressive Roman Catholic Cathedral of Saint Gerhard and right next to it, you can spot the Hotel Srbija.

    The Chapel of the Holy Cross
    The Chapel of the Holy Cross
    Flats and houses.
    Vršac cityscape.
    The Saint Gerhard Cathedral between the buildings.
    The Saint Gerhard Cathedral.

    Back in the city

    After exploring a part of the “upper part” of Vršac it was time to drive back to the city and visit it. We left our car near the city center and started to explore the area on foot.

    Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Gerhard

    The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Gerhard was built between 1860 – 1863. This is one of the tallest buildings in the city. Also, it’s important to mention that it was built in the Neo-Gothic Style.

    The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Gerhard in Vršac.
    The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. Gerhard on hot summer day.

    Hotel Srbija and the city center

    As you will walk towards the city center from the Roman Catholic Cathedral, you will come across the Hotel Srbija.

    Hotel Srbija seen from the city center.
    Hotel Srbija and a part of the city center.

    The Town Hall

    Vršac obtained its Town Hall in 1795 when the two separate municipalities, Serbian Vršac and German Vršac, merged into a single town. This marked the culmination of their administrative union, which had been in effect since 1717.

    In 1859, the construction of a new Vršac Town Hall commenced, following a proposal by Mayor Aleksandar Stojakovic. This new edifice was constructed in the Neo-Gothic style. A commemorative tablet, inscribed in both Serbian and Latin, bearing the signatures of Vršac’s most distinguished citizens, was embedded in its foundations. During this period, Andrija Vasic authored the first History of Vršac. In the 1860s, an extension was added to the building on its northern side.

    The Town Hall.
    The Town Hall.

    Svetog Teodora Vršačkog Park

    This beautiful park is located in the city center. From here, between the trees and the houses, you can even spot the small castle as well. Residents of Vršac often meet in the park to catch up with friends, host birthday parties, or simply engage in conversations under the shade of the trees.

    Svetog Teodora Vršačkog Park.
    Svetog Teodora Vršačkog Park

    Pharmacy on the Stairs

    This edifice is commonly referred to as the “Pharmacy on the Stairs.” It has its origins in the latter half of the 18th century, and in 1784, it became home to Vršac’s inaugural pharmacy, known as “Kod spasitelja.” If you plan to visit this place then you should know that it’s very close to the city center. It’s at the intersection between Kumanovska Street and Miloša Obilića Boulevard.

    Pharmacy on the Stairs.
    The Pharmacy on the Stairs located near the city center.

    Romanian Orthodox Church in Vršac

    The Romanian Orthodox Church in Vršac is a significant religious and cultural institution in the town of Vršac, Serbia. As the name suggests, it is part of the Romanian Orthodox Church, which has a notable presence in the region due to the historical connections between the Romanian and Serbian Orthodox Churches. From the Pharmacy on Stairs if you walk approximately 50 meters on Miloša Obilića Boulevard you will find the Orthodox church.

    Romanian Orthodox Church.
    The Romanian Orthodox Church.

    The Bishop’s Palace

    The last objective that I wanted to visit was the Bishop’s Palace, which serves as the residence of the Serbian Orthodox Bishop in Vršac. I liked that shinny green roof of the building, it really stands out.

    Bishop's Palace Of The Banat Eparchy.
    The Bishop’s Palace.

    The Yugo

    Walking around the city center, I came across a car that was made in the former Yugoslavia by automaker Zastava located in Kragujevac, hence the name Yugo. The Koral 45 model was fitted with a 45 hp engine and it was a very popular car, especially in the former Yugoslavia. Even today you will see them across Serbia.

    The Yugo car.
    The old Yugo resting in the sun.

    Some thoughts about this trip

    One of the most significant advantages of visiting Vršac is its small size, which allows you to explore the major attractions on foot, making it a pedestrian-friendly destination. Additionally, for those who enjoy hiking, there’s a dedicated path leading to the Vršac Castle, offering a rewarding and scenic hike to this historic landmark. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a traveler looking for an escape, Vršac has something to offer for everyone who visits it.

  • The Village of Viscri, Transylvania – A Place I Visited

    The Village of Viscri, Transylvania – A Place I Visited

    Located in the historical region of Transylvania, not far from the inhabited medieval citadel of Sighisoara, Viscri in another important Saxon village that must be visited. One of the primary reasons for its renown is the well-preserved Lutheran fortified church located in the heart of the village. This fortified church, built by the Saxon community, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an architectural and historical gem that attracts visitors from around the world seeking an authentic Transylvanian experience.

    Did you know that King Charles III visited this place multiple times? Through his foundation, he bought an old traditional Saxon house. Ultimately the house was transformed in a beautiful guesthouse which can be rented out to the tourists.

    As a small side note, the fortified church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Getting to Viscri

    When I traveled to Viscri from Sighisoara, I made the wrong decision to make a right turn in the village of Bunesti and drive on 104L road. The road between Bunesti and Viscri although it’s the shortest route, is in a pretty bad condition. In my opinion, the best option especially if you are driving from Sighisoara, is to drive until Rupea and make there a right turn towards the village of Dacia. Once you are near Dacia you will have to make another right turn towards Viscri.

    The village

    Upon my arrival in Viscri, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The Saxon architecture and the cobblestone streets instantly transported me to a bygone era.

    Paved street which leads to the Fortified Church in Viscri.
    Paved street leading to the fortified church.
    Interesting house exterior.
    Interesting house exterior near the fortified church.

    The handmade clothes is a reminder of the enduring importance of tradition and the value of artisanal skills passed down through generations. It is a testament to the resilience of small communities in preserving their unique cultural heritage. Purchasing handmade cloth from Viscri not only allows visitors to take home a piece of Transylvanian history but also supports the artisans and ensures the survival of this exceptional craft.

    Handmade traditional clothing.
    Various handmade clothing.
    Old traditional saxon houses in Viscri.
    Traditional Saxon houses in the village.

    Since this village is visited by many tourists therefore you will see a lot cars parked near the main road. When I visited Viscri, there were a lot of cars with foreign license plate.

    Well maintained houses with a lot of tourist cars.
    The main street in the village with many cars parked.
    Elementary school in Viscri.
    The elementary school in Viscri.
    Well near the main road.
    Interesting well near the main street.
    The Orthodox church in Viscri.
    The Orthodox church located close to the outskirts of the village.

    The Lutheran Fortified Church

    The fortified church in Viscri stands as a testament to the village’s rich history, dating back to the 13th century. The formidable walls and defensive towers tell the story of a community that had to protect itself in turbulent times.

    In order to visit the fortified church, you have to pay for a ticket. Don’t worry, its not expensive at all. After you’ve entered the place, I highly recommend to climb up the main tower. Once you’ve reached the top, almost the entire village is visible from up there. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the Evangelical church’s hall, it’s right next to main tower.

    Within the fortified church, you will find a “little museum” with many interesting old items used by the Saxons.

    The Fortified Church in Viscri.
    The exterior of the Lutheran Fortified Church in Viscri.
    A part of the fortifications which surrounds the old Lutheran church.
    The fortified church.

    Up in the church tower

    As you can see, the view from church tower is breathtaking. You can easily spot the village of Viscri including the beautiful Transylvanian scenery.

    The village seen from the church's tower.
    The scenery as seen from the church tower.
    Another shot of the defense tower with the Transylvanian landscape in the background.
    One of the defense towers and the beautiful Transylvanian scenery.
    A part of the church and the old towers.
    A part of the old Lutheran church and the fortifications.

    Other important places to visit in the area:

    If you’ve decided to explore other interesting places that are not very far from Viscri, then you must add to your list the medieval citadel of Sighisoara and the old Rupea citadel.

    Another place to visit that is not far from this Transylvanian village is the old volcano and the emerald lake in the village of Racos.

  • Explore The Transylvanian Village of Biertan

    Explore The Transylvanian Village of Biertan

    The village of Biertan is another important objective located in the heart of the historical region of Transylvania. Almost in the middle of the village you will find the old medieval fortified church. Also it’s important to mention that this village it’s closely tied to the Transylvanian Saxons, a group of German people who settled in the area in the 12th century. They brought their skills and a strong sense of community with them, and this helped Biertan to grow.

    The village is one of the most picturesque villages in Transylvania, proudly holding a place in UNESCO’s National Heritage, yearly it is visited by thousands of tourists from all over the world.

    How to reach Biertan?

    If you are driving from the small city of Medias on DN14, you will have to make a right turn in the village of Saros pe Tarnave and after that you will have to continue driving on DJ141 until you reach Biertan. From Medias to Biertan by car you will make approximately 30 minutes.

    Let’s explore this Saxon village

    Once you will arrive in Biertan, you can leave your car in a paid parking place located close to the fortified church while you visit the village. Besides the old medieval fortified church, you can visit the beautiful Saxon houses in the village with their unique architecture.

    Saxon house in the village.
    Old traditional Saxon houses in Biertan
    Another beautiful examples of traditional houses.
    Another example of traditional Saxon house next to the Gate Tower.
    Two houses with different roof heights.
    A smaller and a taller house.
    Green house next the fortified church.
    Green house with a large wooden gate.

    If you decided to make a shorter walk around the fortified church then you can easily spot the 3 different fortification walls which surrounds the entire church.

    The fortification walls which surrounds the church.
    3 fortification walls with the old church in the background on the photo.

    Let’s explore the fortified church

    Very close to the Unglerus restaurant you will find the main entrance, don’t forget that you will have to pay for a ticket in order to visit the place. After that you can go directly to the upper part of the fortified church under the covered wooden stairway.

    The covered stairway.
    The covered stairway will take you up to the church.

    One of the most important things to see in Biertan, is the fortified church, which is a prime example of Transylvanian Saxon architecture. This big building was constructed in the 14th century. The fortified church is not only a place of worship but also a fortress which used to protect the villagers from dangers and attackers. The fortified church has 3 fortification walls with medieval towers and bastions which helped to increase the protection. In the center of the fortified church, built on a smaller hill, you will find the old gothic Lutheran church.

    Exterior photo of the old church.
    The exterior of the old church.

    The Catholic Tower is located in the southern part of the fortifications. In the tower’s lower level, there used to be a chapel that was painted with frescoes. This chapel was used by people who didn’t want to change to the new Protestant beliefs during the Reformation.

    The Catholic Tower.
    The Catholic Tower

    A long time ago, In the Eastern Bastion there was a so called “prison” for married couples who don’t get along each other. The story goes that the couples where locked in the prison until they resolved their issues and get along each other.

    The matrimonial prison in the fortified church.
    The matrimonial prison located in the Eastern Bastion.

    Close to the Eastern Bastion, you will find the Mausoleum Tower where you will find the headstones of the priests who built the church.

    The Mausoleum Tower.
    The Mausoleum Tower.

    Inside the church

    The Biertan Church boasts Transylvania’s largest and most breathtaking Polyptych altarpiece. This magnificent altar comprises many panels with exquisite depictions of key moments in the lives of Jesus.

    The altar inside to old church.
    The altar.

    Admire the village from the fortified church

    If you take a walk around the old church, you will have many opportunities to admire the old traditional houses and of course the surrounding landscape as well.

    A part of the village of Biertan.
    A part of the village including the green hills which surrounds Biertan.
    The school.
    The school and other buildings near the main square.

    After exploring the upper part of the fortified church, it was time to head down to the lower part on a path which starts right under the Clock Tower. A part of the path was made between the fortification walls.

    Paved path between the fortification walls.
    A paved path between the fortification walls which will take you to the Gate Tower.
    The Gate Tower.
    The Gate Tower.

    On my way back from the Gate Tower, the path will take you right next to the Clock Tower, so it was the perfect opportunity to capture this iconic tower.

    The Clock Tower.
    The Clock Tower in Biertan.

    Serving a coffee before leaving

    Before leaving the village of Biertan, in order to recharge your batteries you can drink a very good coffee at Unglerus Medieval Restaurant which is right near the main entrance into the fortified church. So if are searching for a good place to drink a coffee or the eat a tasty traditional food than I highly recommend this restaurant.

    The fortified church and the Unglerus medieval restaurant.
    The fortified church with the Unglerus medieval restaurant next to the Clock Tower.

    What can you explore nearby?

    The village of Biertan is a great starting point for exploring other important attractions around it. Nearby, you can find:

    Sibiu: This city is famous for its well-preserved medieval buildings and lively cultural scene.

    Sighisoara: This medieval town is where Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Count Dracula) was born. It’s a fascinating place with a historic citadel. The objective is actually the closest one to Biertan.

    Viscri: Another village with a fortified church, Viscri is known for its rustic beauty and traditional feel. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Malancrav: In this village you can visit the Lutheran church and the Apafi manor.