Did you know that when the Pied Piper enticed all the children away from Hamelin in Germany, they disappeared underground and emerged in Brasov, Transylvania, in the town square?
Neither did I, but the Saxons ruled Brasov for centuries because of it's strategic position for invasion and trade routes, within a day's ride of the Carpathian mountain passes. The Saxons have left their mark on much of the architecture and structure of their society in the old town, especially in the Council Square (Piata Sfatului), where imposing red roofed mercants' houses and Guild headquarters for goldsmiths, locksmiths and many other trades still stand.
Under Saxon rule, the local Romanian speaking people were not allowed to live in the now fortified citadel of Brasov, but could enter to sell their wares on payment of a toll. They lived in the Schei district, S/W of the city and could only enter the walled city at certain times through the Schei gate.
The Schei gate as it is now. The Romanian's first view of the city many years ago, called Kronstadt by the Saxons.
The Schei area is now a quiet Resdential cul de sac within walking distance of the old town, and a good place to look for a B&B.
One of our first impressions of the Historic Quarter in Brasov. Note the Hungarian name Brasso on the parasol.
Views of the Council Square, where the Pied Piper was said to have reappeared with all the children of Hamelin.
Brasov hosted a free rock concert the day that we went, hence the fencing and toilets.
After driving up through the mountains,around hairpin bends, amongst trees with their heads in the clouds, then getting lost in modern Brasov, we felt that a spot of lunch and a siesta was in order. In the midst of the traditional cafe/bars and ubiquitous Irish bar, we found a corner resraurant decorated with real peace lilies and orchid trees so lifelike they could have been real.
The al fresco Italian Restaurant with Peace Lilies.
We took a photo and decided to eat there. It was excellent, but was Bucharest prices, not Brasov, but what the heck, we were having a W/E away!
We then ate our meal while being photographed by everyone who passed by, so we are in many people's holiday photos!
Siesta time!
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