Harman Fortified Church

Harman Fortified Church is located in the heart of Harman village in the Transylvania region of Romania. A visit makes a great day trip from Brasov and is often combined with a visit to Prejmer Fortified Church.

The church, which dates to 1240, is one of nearly 300 fortified churches in Transylvania. The belfry tower was added to the church in the 14th century and walls were added in the 15th century. The south chapel has been preserved in close to its original state, while the north chapel was rebuilt in the 15th century. The church was originally built as a Romanesque three nave church, but was later taken over by the Cistercians.

The interior of Harman Fortified Church features traces of different styles and eras.The fortifications were built to protect the village from attacks by the Ottomans and originally included three walls. Only two walls remain, an outer wall at 4.5 meters high and an inner wall about 12 meters high. Visitors have access to some of interior living spaces within the fortifications, as well as the walkway around the wall, which is still close to its original state.

Today, the church and the walls are still standing and are a beautifully serene place to visit.Entry is 10 lei for adults and this gets you access to all the grounds, the church and the walls where you can see how the people lived and worked. If you don’t mind heights and steep stairs you can also climb up the bell tower for a wonderful view! You also get a free guide you can use while visiting and the staff are very helpful.There village of Hărman is surprisingly quiet, even in the height of summer. There are a few small shops in the village and inside the church you can buy souvenirs. It’s very easy to get to and if you are based in Brasov it would be a quick trip out of the city.I would definitely recommend a visit to Harman Fortified Church especially if you are based in Brasov. This could easily be combined with a trip to the Prejmer Fortified Church which is close by.

Did you like this article? Read about Prejmer Fortified Church, another jewel of Transylvania

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