Things to Do at Black Church (Biserica Neagra)

The Black Church (Biserica Neagră) stands as Brașov's most iconic landmark and Romania's largest Gothic church, though its name might be a bit misleading at first glance. The imposing structure actually gets its name from damage sustained during a devastating fire in 1689, when Habsburg forces besieged the city and the church's walls were blackened by smoke and flames. What you see today is the result of careful restoration that preserved both its Gothic grandeur and the historical scars that give it character. Built between 1383 and 1477, this Lutheran church represents one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Southeastern Europe. The interior houses an impressive collection of Anatolian carpets - one of the largest collections outside Turkey - along with a massive 4,000-pipe organ that still fills the space with remarkable acoustics. It's the kind of place where you'll find yourself looking up constantly, trying to take in the soaring arches and intricate stonework that somehow survived centuries of political upheaval.

The Black Church sits right in the heart of Brașov's old town on Curtea Johannes Honterus, making it incredibly easy to reach on foot from most central locations. If you're staying anywhere in the historic center, it's likely just a 5-10 minute walk through the pedestrian-friendly streets. From the main train station, you can take bus lines 20 or 23 to Livada Postei stop, then walk about 5 minutes. There's limited parking nearby due to the pedestrian zones, so your best bet is to park at one of the peripheral lots and walk in - which actually gives you a nice approach through the medieval streets.