Transilvania

We are on our way up to Sibiu through the Carpathians from
Raminicu Valcea (center of the eclipse)

Sibiu was the Saxon Stronghold in the 15th Century.

The unique 'eye' skylights helped scare away enemies.

The church interiors were amazing.

This was one of many fortified Monasteries

All the Bishops from the end of the 15th century, for 400 years (14 in all) were entombed here.

This entrance inclined at a 10 degree angle under two 30 foot walls.

Much of Transilvania is of Saxon origin, with German type figurine clocks in the fortress towers.

These figures were for the days of the week.  The clock
workings are all original.

This was the real Dracula's birthplace.  I'm not sure why the reflection ended
up on the sign....????!  We are in Sighisora.

This image was alleged to be that of Dracula (Vlad the Impaler), painted inside his birth house in the 15th century.

Fortifications were everywhere.

So were storks, and good luck if they nest on your house.  (They didn't need a chimney, anyway....)

This was the center of Targu Mures.  These buildings had incredible tile roofs and interiors.

We climbed this 250' tower despite the fact it was being restored.

Cindy pauses after the first 200' of unsure footing.  The clockworks were original and still running.

This was the Golden Crone, were Jonathan Harker of Bram
Stoker's 'Dracula' stayed, after his train trip from Budapest
Hungry.  He met Dracula the next night.

By now some of the girls were taking on scary characteristics.

 Back to the Trip page.