The History of Râșnov

The History of Râșnov

The town of Râșnov, located at the foot of the Bucegi and Postăvaru Mountains, in the heart of Țara Bârsei (Burzenland), has a rich history spanning over eight centuries. Râșnov was first mentioned in official records in 1331, under the name "Rosnou", but archaeological findings show that the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic period.

Râșnov developed as a rural settlement during the Middle Ages, founded by Saxon colonists brought to Transylvania by Hungarian kings in the 13th century. Thanks to its strategic location at the crossroads of important trade routes, the town became a key defensive point against Ottoman and Tatar invasions.

The most iconic symbol of the town is the Râșnov Fortress, built in the 13th–14th centuries by the local community to protect their families and belongings. This peasant fortress served as a reliable refuge for the locals, withstanding numerous attacks and sieges over time.

In the modern era, Râșnov continued to grow while maintaining its picturesque character and cultural identity. The industrialization that began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought economic and demographic changes, and today the town is a prominent tourist destination, known for its historical heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

Râșnov is not just a town with a famous fortress—it is a living community, rooted in its past and looking confidently toward the future. Tradition, culture, and local hospitality continue to define this unique corner of Transylvania.

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