One of the oldest settlements in Transylvania, Medias maintains a medieval ambience with its fortified churches, ancient monasteries and cobbled streets in the Old Town area. Modern shopping boutiques, cafes and health spas create an interesting combination of culture, art and history.
Things to do in Mediaş
In the Old Town district, you’ll find the 1444 Franciscan Church and Monastery as well as the fortified St. Margaret Evangelical Church, which sits atop the ruins of an ancient Roman basilica. You can view Gothic altarpieces and 15th-century frescoes as well as a defence tower where Prince Vlad Tepes, otherwise known as Vlad the Impaler, was imprisoned.
Don’t miss the leaning Tower of Trumpeters, built in 1450 as a watchtower for guards who alerted residents to enemy attacks or impending danger. An enormous clock from the 1800s showcases the changing moon phases as they occur.
In the historic centre, you can enjoy shopping, dining and pub-hopping as well as strolling and picnicking in Piata Regele Ferdinand Park. About 10 minutes’ drive outside the city brings you to the Fortified Church at Valea Viilor, a structure from the 1200s that holds a collection of later Saxon furniture and buildings within its towering stone walls.
Drive out to Bazna Spa, a health resort with mineral-water springs. You can soak in the Bazna salt waters or enjoy mud massages. Back in the city, have an Italian dinner at Trattoria Roma or dine on traditional Romanian cuisine at Casa Ardeleana.
Getting around Mediaş
Targu Mures Transilvania International Airport and Sibia International Airport are both within about 60 kilometres of Medias and have car rentals. Buses, minibuses and taxis offer alternative transportation.