Council Square (Piata Sfatului)

Around Council Square, you’ll find the landmark Black Church, the former Council House (which now houses the History Museum), Hirscher House, the Orthodox Cathedral, the Museum of Urban Civilization, and the Casa Muresenilor Museum. Cafés, restaurants, and terraces line the square, which also has a large fountain in the middle. The square is also a popular location for gatherings, events, and festivals. Leading away from the square is the pedestrian-only Republicii Street, full of cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Nearly all tours of Brasov, including walking tours, will feature a stop here, along with other top attractions like the Black Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the First Romanian School. You can also visit as part of a sightseeing tour that also stops at some of Transylvania’s top attractions, including Bran Castle and Peles Castle.

• Council Square is a must-visit for first time visitors to Brasov.

• The Tourist Information Center is located inside Council House.

• There is free Wi-Fi at the Tourist Information Center.

Council Square is located at the center of Brasov. Brasov is about 100 miles (161 kilometers) north of Bucharest, in central Romania. By car, take the E60 from Bucharest to Brasov. It’s also possible to take a train or bus to get to Brasov from Bucharest and other major cities in Romania.

Council Square can be visited year-round. Summer is a pleasant time to visit, when many cafés and restaurants offer outdoor seating. A number of popular festivals and events are held at the square each year, including the annual “Golden Stag”(Cerbul de Aur) Festival in late summer. September and November are also popular months for festivals, and a Christmas Fair is held in December.

Council House was built in 1420, with a landmark Trumpet Tower that was previously used as a watchtower to spot approaching invaders. It also used to serve as Brasov’s city hall. Today, it houses the Historical Museum and the Tourist Information Office.