AIUD FORTRESS

Aiud Fortress is a major medieval site of the region. The fortress with 1.2 meters walls and towers is alleged, according to recent archeological discoveries, to be built on the site of an ancient Dacian-Roman fortress dating from III century. In building the architectural complex are known two phases of construction. In the first phase the XIV century fortress was actually a fortified church similar to transylvanian churches. The second phase of construction of the fortress took place during the centuries XVI-XVII. The current shape of the fortress was defined in the second phase of construction when the walls were extended. The defence was increased by the water groove which surrounded the fortress in the outside. The towers were put into the care of artisan’s guilds, which had military obligations, of guild’s masters were choosed the military commanders – so called "officers of guild". So there were, butchers, tailors, shoemakers and potters towers - rectangular shape, curriers - with seven sides, as well as those of furriers and locksmith - with five sides. On the western side it still can be found a small tower called "Kalendas", which was in the care of St. Spirit Association. The link between the adjacent towers was managed by the guard way behind the parapet. Inside the towers the access to higher levels was done by wooden staircases.