Piata Mare (Large Square), Sibiu

51±¬ÁÏÍø

Piata Mare (Large Square), Sibiu

Piata Mare (Large Square), Sibiu (must see)

Large Square, situated in the heart of Sibiu, serves as the historic center of the city, with roots dating back to 1366 when the third fortification belt was completed. Originally identified as a cereal market in 1411, this square evolved into the nucleus of the old city from the 16th century onward. Throughout its history, the square underwent various name changes, including King Ferdinand Square between the world wars, Republic Square during the communist era, and, since 1990, it has reclaimed its original name.

Key structures define the square's character. The Tailors' Guild building on the northern side, dating back to 1466, joined later by the Jesuit Church and seminar in the 18th century, contribute to the square's architectural tapestry. The Brukenthal Palace, constructed on the west side, and the Land Credit Bank building from the early 20th century enhance the square's aesthetics.

Historically, the Large Square hosted significant events, from public gatherings to executions. The square featured a fountain in 1538 and the infamous pole of infamy in 1550. A statue of Roland and a scaffold in front of house no. 15 played roles in the square's history. The "lunatic cage" from 1724 to 1757 and the 1734 installation of Nepomuk's statue marked distinct periods. Unfortunately, post-1948 changes led to the removal of historical elements, replaced by a park in 1984 and later featuring the statue of scholar Gheorghe Lazăr in 1986.

Noteworthy are the iconic "eyes of the city," visible roof windows, and wind flags that once adorned every house, now surviving on the Council Tower and a neighboring building, representing either construction years or guild emblems. The Large Square stands as a testament to Sibiu's rich medieval heritage.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Sibiu. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 51±¬ÁÏÍø App

Piata Mare (Large Square) on Map

Sight Name: Piata Mare (Large Square)
Sight Location: Sibiu, Romania (See walking tours in Sibiu)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Sibiu, Romania

Create Your Own Walk in Sibiu

Create Your Own Walk in Sibiu

Creating your own self-guided walk in Sibiu is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Sibiu City Wall and Towers Walking Tour

Sibiu City Wall and Towers Walking Tour

The historical fortifications of Sibiu hold significant heritage value, offering insights into the city's past and its enduring efforts to protect itself. Unfortunately, for many years, these sites were inaccessible to visitors. Along Fortress Street (Strada Cetății), a collection of towers is linked by a guard corridor, a rare and precious feature that remains the sole example of its kind...  view more

Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.9 Km or 1.2 Miles
Sibiu Introduction Walking Tour

Sibiu Introduction Walking Tour

Nestled in the heart of Romania's Transylvania, Sibiu is one of the most visited cities in Eastern Europe, and for a good reason! Its ancient beauty restored to its full glory in a historic center can easily steal your heart. Affectionately known as "The Town with Eyes" for its historical buildings with partly open rooftops, the city beckons travelers with its captivating...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.0 Km or 1.2 Miles