Biertan fortified church, Biertan

Nestled in the picturesque heart of Transylvania, Romania, the Biertan Fortified Church stands as a remarkable testament to the region's Saxon heritage and medieval architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the small village of Biertan, is one of the most significant and well-preserved fortified churches in Southeast Europe.

Constructed between the 15th and 16th centuries, the Biertan Fortified Church was the spiritual and defensive bastion for the local Saxon community. Enclosed by strong defensive walls, this ecclesiastical citadel boasts three tiers of fortifications, making it a formidable structure during turbulent times. The church itself is a stunning example of late Gothic architecture, with a majestic altarpiece, beautiful frescoes, and an impressive wooden door with a unique locking mechanism that was considered an engineering marvel of its time.

Visitors to Biertan can explore the church's interior, which houses an array of historical artifacts, including a collection of old Transylvanian carpets and a sacristy door with 19 locks. The church's bell tower offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, which is dotted with vineyards and traditional Saxon houses.

The Biertan Fortified Church also holds a curious piece of matrimonial history; the 'matrimonial prison' where couples contemplating divorce were confined together for two weeks in hopes of reconciling their differences. Legend has it that in 300 years, only one couple proceeded with their divorce after the confinement.