We spend a few hours in Sibiu, another medieval town in Transylvania; it’s called Hermannstadt by the Germans, and I can see the German influence. First, we go to the Liar’s Bridge—the legend goes that if you tell a lie on the bridge, you will be exposed. Well, that’s only one of the legends; in this post all four of them are outlined.
On Piața Mare (the big plaza) is a small fare with vendors, sweets, a children’s carousel, and even live rabbits in a big cage. It looks like a left-over Christmas market, just for Easter. Piața Mică (small plaza) has patio furniture laid out, but the weather isn’t quite nice enough to draw crowds today. The streets are cobbled, and the old buildings a mixture of well maintained or restored and run-down.
Of course, the church on the main square is stunning; I especially like the patterned roof. We just take a peek inside instead of going in. Close to the church is a pole with old nails, pins, spikes, coins, marking the Journeymen’s House (Casa Calfelor), and nearby is the story of the wandering journeyman described. I didn’t realize that this medieval practice is still alive: when an apprentice passes his journeyman test, he goes to work outside of his town (a way to travel and learn different techniques from other masters and regions) while working for only room and board.
The historical centre of Sibiu has an upper and a lower part—the lower city seems a little less well maintained—and we walk around in both a little before we decide to move on. Sibiu was only a short visit on our way to the next stop.
We drive to Sarmizegetusa—and let me tell you, there are two. I thought we were going to Sarmizegetusa Regia where you can see upright stone piles in patterns, reminiscent of Stonehenge just completely different. Well, we actually end up at “the other” Sarmizegetusa where we see the ruins of a Roman amphitheater and city from Dacian times. We also visit the Sarmizegetusa museum, but the signs there are only in Romanian, and when I try to translate with my app, I am told I have to pay a steep photography fee, so I put my phone away while I’m inside.
It wasn’t what was planned, but my friend enjoyed her conversation with the museums co-founder while I went outside and enjoyed the countryside. The signs outside were also in English, so I get a little more out of that experience. Soon, we need to get on our way if we want to get to our next overnight stay before dark.
Very nice old city. Like the view from the bridge. You have a good eye.
Ahh Dudney Trunk!! 🙂
Like the Roman relics
C
Interesting commentary. I enjoyed the part about the journeyman. I am intrigued with the part about Stonehenge And the Roman amphitheater!