Harman Fortified Church (Biserica Fortificata Harman)
Sturdy 15th-century walls designed to withstand Ottoman sieges encircle this 13th-century church. Inside the fortifications, a 184-foot (56-meter bell tower looms over the main church, where a Baroque-style altar and centuries-old benches—the backless ones in the middle for women and those at the outer edges for men—can be seen.
The basics
Visitors to the Fortified Church of Harman can explore the main church, view murals depicting heaven and hell, and climb up the bell tower, from where you can gaze out on the town below and the surrounding landscape. The church is often seen as part of multi-day tours from Bucharest, which stop at many historic churches, fortresses, and castles in Transylvania, such as Bran Castle, Peles Castle, and Sighişoara. Some tours combine a visit to the Fortified Church of Harman with a trip to the Fortified Church of Prejmer, which is just 5.5 miles (nine kilometers) away.
Things to know before you go
- The Fortified Church of Harman is a must for history buffs and travelers looking for off-the-beaten-track attractions.
- The climb to the top of the bell tower is via a steep spiral staircase and may be difficult for travelers with mobility issues.
- There are toilets, free parking, and printed information available at the site.
How to get there
The Fortified Church of Harman is situated in the village of Harmon, about six miles (10 kilometers) northeast of Brașov. Driving takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, take the train from Brașov to Harman.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The church is open daily, with longer opening hours between April and October. Even in the high season (summer), the church remains calm and uncrowded.
The Fortified Churches of Transylvania
The Fortified Church of Harman is one of several hundred such churches constructed in Transylvania, of which more than 150 survive. Their origins date back to the 12th century when German settlers first came and built villages in the area. The fortifications themselves were typically built between the 13th and 16th centuries, at a time when Transylvanian villages were under threat from Ottoman and Tatar attacks.
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