The south of Transylvania is marked by the Saxon civilization. Invited in the 12th century by the Hungarian kings to set up and defend the southern border with Wallachia, the German settlers lived in compact, well-organized communities. They erected the citadels of Transylvania and the famous Saxon fortified churches.
Seven of these fortified churches, usually the best preserved, are UNESCO World Heritage monuments. They are situated in the villages Câlnic, Valea Viilor, Biertan, Saschiz, Viscri, Dârjiu and Prejmer. The fortified church of Malancrav, though not on the UNESCO list, preserved spectacular Medieval frescoes.
The fortified church of Valea Viilor village - UNESCO World Heritage site.