Council Square (Piața Sfatului), Brasov (must see)

The Council Square (Piața Sfatului) is a must-see location in the historical center of Brasov. The Square has been used as a marketplace since 1364, being visited by merchants from the country and abroad.

A pillory once stood in the middle of the square. It was used for punishing those who were thought to be criminals or practitioners of witchcraft. Some were publicly humiliated, while others were beheaded.

The Council Square is surrounded by houses that date to the 18th century. Many of these homes have been declared historical monuments. The most important building in the square is the Council House (Casa Sfatului), which was built in 1420. Located in the middle of Council Square, the building is now the Brasov County Museum of History.

The Black Church (Biserica Neagra) is another building that tourists will see. This church is a must-see site on its own, deserving a full tour thanks to its beautiful architecture and rich history. Another religious edifice located along the square is the Council Square Orthodox Church, a 19th-century, neo-Byzantine church dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God.

Muresenilor House Memorial Museum (Muzeul Casa Muresenilor) and the Hirscher House are interesting stops along the square. The Museum of Urban Civilization is worth a visit as well. This museum is housed in a 16th-century building with a reconstructed Renaissance facade. The museum focuses on the building itself and the former owners of the house along with paintings and artifacts from Transylvania's past.

Other attractions near Council Square include the White Tower, Rope Street, Republicii Street, the Black Tower, and many others.