Butchers' Tower, Sighișoara
Facts and practical information
The Butchers' Tower is an enduring medieval relic set against the charming backdrop of Sighișoara, Romania. This robust and stately structure forms part of the city's celebrated citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved walled town and cobbled streets. Built in the 15th century, the Butchers' Tower was constructed as a defensive bastion by the town's butchers' guild—one of the many trade guilds responsible for defending the citadel.
The tower's design is typical of the medieval fortifications found throughout Transylvania, featuring thick stone walls and a sturdy, yet simple, architecture that has withstood the test of time. Standing tall through centuries of history, the Butchers' Tower has played a crucial role in safeguarding the inhabitants of Sighișoara from invaders and marauders.
Visitors to the Butchers' Tower can immerse themselves in the rich history of Sighișoara, often referred to as "the pearl of Transylvania." The tower is part of a larger ensemble of historical structures, including the iconic Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for the Dracula legend. While the interior of the Butchers' Tower is not typically open to the public, its imposing presence contributes to the atmospheric experience of walking through the medieval streets of the citadel.
Sighișoara
Butchers' Tower – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Monastery Church, Iron Smiths' Tower, Clock Tower, Sighișoara Citadel.