A city at the crossroads or “Per Medias” – this is how one of the oldest Romanian cities was mentioned by the Romans! Behind its well-preserved medieval walls, Medias hides a charming historic center and one of the most impressive fortified churches in Transylvania. Another Saxon footprint in this part of the country that is worth visiting.
Where is located and how to get there
Located along the shores of the Tarnava Mare River, Medias is almost equidistant between the popular tourist cities of Sibiu (52 km) and Sighisoara (40 km). It’s easily accessible by car along DN14 and you can easily park near the center. We left our car for free right opposite the entrance to the church, at Parcare Piata George Enescu.
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Several major railway connections intersect in Medias, making reaching it by train convenient and easy. As a peaceful place with a central location in Transylvania, it can be preferred for a stay to explore the area.
See places to stay in Medias
Booking.comThe Fortified Church and the Trumpeters Tower
We begin our tour at the most popular landmark in Medias – the fortified church from the mid-15th century (Biserica Sfânta Margareta). A narrow tunnel leads us to the churchyard, located slightly higher than the other buildings. There are several towers that make an impression, and a curious fact is that the famous Vlad Tepes was imprisoned in one of them for a short time!
The tallest and most emblematic of them is the Trumpeters Tower (Turnul Trompeților). It was built as an observation tower, and the alarm signal was sounded by a trumpet! After Medias was declared a city in 1550, the municipal council decided to increase the height of the tower by 35 feet, which changed its structure to such an extent that it is currently among the most leaning towers in the world. In 1880, the impressive clock was added, also informing about the phases of the moon.
The Gothic church (Biserica Sfânta Margareta) was built on the remains of a Roman basilica and is surrounded by two rows of fortified walls. Despite the simple interior, interesting frescoes on the main altar, a colorful Baroque organ, and an impressive collection of oriental carpets can be seen inside.
More about Medias
Until the 13th century, Medias was a small craft village, but with the arrival of the Saxons, it became one of the most important Transylvanian cities. During the Middle Ages, majestic fortifications were built, arousing admiration to this day. Over the years, it has established itself as an economic and manufacturing center, and at the beginning of the 20th century, huge deposits of natural gas were discovered in its area, making it home to the largest Romanian companies in the industry. The vine leaves in the city’s coat of arms suggest that winemaking is another local pride! Even the creator of the novel “Dracula“, Bram Stoker, mentions that the wine at the famous hero’s table was Golden Mediasch...
The central square
In the middle of the central square Piaţa Regele Ferdinand I, you will find a neat little park, and around it the buildings are pleasantly refreshed in soft pastel colors! This is an ideal place for a short break, with a view of the iconic tower that has become a symbol of Medias. And if you need good coffee, you can head to The Bean – a brand that we tried in Sighisoara and really liked.
To the fortress walls
Take some more time for a short walk to the southern part of the defensive city walls. There is the distinctive Tower of the Goldsmiths (Turnul Forkesch), which was one of the three entrance gates to Medias. At its foot, right next to the wall, is a charming little library where you can borrow or leave a book. The area has been improved in recent years and is maintained in perfect condition!
