PIATA SFATULUI

The Council Square (Piata Sfatului), known to the Saxon population as the Marktplatz, is the heart of the old medieval Brasov. Lined with beautiful red-roofed merchant houses, the square is one of the finest in the country. The buildings recall the region's German heritage. Around the square you'll find some of the smaller landmarks: the Renaissance style Hirscher House or Merchant's House (now the "Cerbul carpatin" restaurant), the beautiful entrance to the Orthodox cathedral or the museum dedicated to the Muresianu family out of which came the first editor of "Gazeta de Transilvania", a political newspaper published in the 19th century. One of the square's corners is dominated by the town's most famous landmark, the Black Church. Piata Sfatului is a nice place to rest, and soak in the beautiful scenery. In the summer outdoor cafes line the square and the place is lively. The spring fountain, right in the middle of the square, cools the air. Every year the "Golden Stag" (Cerbul de Aur) music festival takes place here.