Sibiu is one of the main cities in Transylvania (along with Brasov and Cluj-Napoca). The city was founded by the Saxons in the 12th century. Later, following an invasion by the Tatars, fortifications were built in order to protect the city from future invasions. The city experienced and cultural and economic boom thanks to its geographical location: Sibiu is on the crossroads between Wallachia and Transylvania, as well as between Brasov and Hungary.
During the communist regime, Sibiu was less affected by the architectural tastes of Ceausescu, due to its geographical isolation from the capital (separated from each other by the Olt Valley). Thanks to its rich heritage and preserved architecture, Sibiu was designated the title of European Capital of Culture in 2007, the same year that Romania joined the European Union. This award was important for the history of Sibiu; since then there have been many reconstructions and efforts to increase the prosperity of the city, as well as development of cultural events celebrated to this day.
The atmosphere of Sibiu resembles that of a city in southern Germany. Thanks to its remoteness, and continued Saxon presence, the city has preserved its original character.
The historic center is especially great for shopping and taking walks through the winding streets and historical monuments. The most interesting sites located near the Central Square (Piata Mare) are: the smaller square (Piata Mica), Huet Square, the Bridge of Lies and the Brukenthal Museum. To the south, you can find the remains of the fortress walls that protected the city, as well as the road leading to the Marginimea Sibiului region, and the Astra Museum, an open-air museum which showcases the different types of buildings in the area.