Why Sibiu, Romania Should Feature Highly on Your Accessible Travel Bucket List!

The city of Sibiu in Transylvania was awarded European Cultural Capital in 2007, and when perusing through the historical streets filled to the brim with charm and beauty, it’s easy to see why. Read along as we take a closer look at what makes Sibiu a tourist haven of all tastes and budgets! Stick around to the end to find out a bit more about the accessibility in this amazing city, also!

Sibiu can be found amongst some pretty breathtaking panorama, with the city offering incredible views of the snow-capped Fagaras Mountains off the southeast of town and the Cindrel Mountains to the southwest. Sibiu unmistakably presents itself with a vibrant ambiance, which couples well with the authentic Saxon architecture that dominates the city’s two main squares.

Thousands of Romanians flock to Sibiu every year, along with many others who come from even further afield. Once there, folks can enjoy a multitude of quaint cafes, restaurants, and museums, as well as popular theater shows, film festivals, outdoor shows and performances, street art, and photography exhibitions! All of which lends itself to Sibiu being nothing short of a creativity melting pot, and a place that’s in no way devoid of inspiration.

Sibiu is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys being swept away in captivating narratives. For example, the Bridge of Lies acquired its name from an ancient tale, suggesting that this cast iron marvel operated as a truth detector, crumbling whenever someone spoke a lie. The bridge was therefore often frequented by couples seeking clarity over their significant other’s emotions – or, dare we say it – the truth about their possible infidelity. Historical documents indicate that the Bridge of Lies dates back to 1859 – making it a fairly modern installment by Sibiu’s standards – but nevertheless was an inaugural structure of its kind within Romania, linking the upper and lower areas of the city.

Sibiu also has some rather unexpected ties with the rocket industry no less, a bizarre twist that is rooted in the 16th century when the Bathory family invited Conrad Hass to the city. Hass, a significant Austrian military figure, wrote a groundbreaking book on the invention of a multistage rocket, lost for centuries until its discovery in Sibiu in the 1960s. The city also boasts being the birthplace of engineer Herman Oberth, a pioneer in modern rocket science. Inspired by Jules Verne, Oberth proposed moon travel theories at the tender age of 11. His legacy includes designing a rocket for a Berlin-based movie company and notable achievements in liquid-fuel engines, reflecting telescopes, and space stations.

Fascinatingly, Sibiu is also the birthplace of Romania’s first-ever museum, thanks in no small part to the scholar, Samuel von Brukenthal, who served as Chancellor and later Governor of Transylvania. His opulent palace, a gem of baroque architecture dating back to 1779, evolved into a cultural hub hosting various artistic performances. Posthumously, Brukenthal’s residence transformed into a museum, showcasing not only artistic treasures but also the baron’s renowned stamp collection.

But what about accessibility in Sibiu? Well, the city has been working to enhance accessibility for people with disabilities. While the historic Old Town may present challenges due to its cobblestone streets, efforts have been made to provide accessible routes. We include Sibiu as one of the top destinations when helping to arrange accessible tours for visitors to Romania. To find out more about Sibiu, what we can offer in terms of a visit, or about anywhere else in Romania for that matter, please feel free to get in touch either here on tabifolk, or via the contact information on our website! 

Hope to see you in Romania soon! *hugs*