How long does it take to walk through Sibiu's Upper Town?

This self-guided walk typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. The distance between the main squares is very short, but you will want extra time for photography and perhaps climbing the Council Tower.

Are the 'Eyes of Sibiu' real eyes?

No, they are actually ventilation windows built into the roofs of merchant houses. They were designed to let air circulate in the attics where goods were stored, but their unique shape makes them look like human eyes watching the street.

Is the Bridge of Lies in Sibiu worth visiting?

Absolutely, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Romania. Besides the legend that the bridge will collapse if you tell a lie on it, it offers a beautiful vantage point for photos connecting the Upper and Lower Towns.

Can I do this walking route in a wheelchair?

The route is mostly flat as it stays in the Upper Town, but the historical cobblestones can be very bumpy and difficult for wheelchairs and strollers. The Bridge of Lies is accessible, but the stairs to the Lower Town are not.

What is the best time of day to see the Eyes of Sibiu?

Late afternoon is ideal when the sun hits the roofs at an angle, creating shadows that make the 'eyes' look more expressive. Early morning is also great to avoid the crowds in the Small Square.

Is there an entry fee for the landmarks on this walk?

Walking through the squares and across the Bridge of Lies is free. There is a small fee to climb the Council Tower or to enter the Brukenthal National Museum and the Lutheran Cathedral.

Where can I find the best view of Sibiu?

The top of the Council Tower provides the best 360-degree view of the city center. For a view that includes the Council Tower itself, the steeple of the Lutheran Cathedral is an excellent choice.

The Eyes of Sibiu: Architectural Photography Walk | Self-Guided Walking Tour

About This Guided Walking Tour

Welcome to Sibiu, a city that literally watches you as you wander through its medieval heart. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the Upper Town, home to the famous 'Eyes of Sibiu'—unique eyebrow-shaped dormer windows that peer down from the rooftops of centuries-old merchant houses. This architectural photography walk is designed for those who want to capture the soul of Transylvania through a lens, focusing on the intricate details, sweeping squares, and dramatic shadows that make this city a UNESCO-recognized gem. Starting in the historic Huet Square, you will traverse the interconnected network of plazas that define Sibiu's urban layout. Along this walking route, you will discover why the city was chosen as a European Capital of Culture and how its Saxon heritage shaped the sturdy, watchful buildings surrounding you. This is not just a lesson in history; it is an exploration of perspective. You will find the best angles to photograph the Gothic spires of the Lutheran Cathedral, the Baroque elegance of the Brukenthal Palace, and the heavy-lidded 'eyes' of the Small Square. As you explore independently, you will learn the practical reasons behind these architectural oddities—originally designed as ventilation for attics used to store grain and meat—and the legends that transformed them into symbols of vigilance. This neighborhood stroll takes you across the infamous Bridge of Lies and through the Council Tower, offering a comprehensive look at the Upper Town's most iconic landmarks. Whether you are a professional photographer or a casual traveler with a smartphone, this walking route provides the historical context and visual inspiration to see Sibiu in a completely new light. Experience the quiet atmosphere of the cobblestone streets and the grand scale of the Large Square at your own pace, without the constraints of a group or schedule. This self-guided adventure is the perfect introduction to the charm and mystery of one of Romania's most beautiful cities.

Tour Highlights & Things to See

Photograph the iconic 'Eyes of Sibiu' dormer windows in the Small Square.
Explore the Gothic architecture of Huet Square and the Lutheran Cathedral.
Capture panoramic views of the city from the Council Tower.
Walk across the legendary Bridge of Lies, the first iron bridge in Romania.
Admire the Baroque facade of the Brukenthal National Museum.
Experience the grand scale of the Large Square, the heart of the city since 1366.

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour.

Tour Stops & Points of Interest (6)

1

Huet Square

Begin your self-guided adventure in Huet Square, the oldest part of Sibiu. This square was built on the site of the first medieval fortifications. The dominant feature here is the Lutheran Evangelical Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with its soaring 73-meter steeple. Notice the four smaller turrets at the corners of the main spire; in medieval times, this was a sign that the city had the right to pass the death penalty. As you walk around the cathedral, look for the statue of Bishop Teutsch and the old Brukenthal High School. The atmosphere here is quieter and more academic than the other squares, providing a perfect backdrop for architectural shots of medieval stonework and heavy wooden doors.

2

Small Square (Piața Mică)

Pass through the passage into the Small Square, or Piața Mică. This is the best place to spot the 'Eyes of Sibiu.' Look up at the roofs of the houses numbered 2 to 16. These windows were designed to ventilate the attics where merchants stored goods, keeping the air circulating to prevent rot. Today, they look like sleepy or watchful eyes keeping track of the tourists below. The square is divided into two parts by the Council Tower and is lined with buildings featuring beautiful loggias and arched walkways. It was historically the center for craftsmen and trade, and its intimate scale makes it a favorite for photographers seeking that classic Transylvanian village feel within a city.

3

The Council Tower

Standing between the Small Square and the Large Square is the Council Tower, a symbol of Sibiu's administrative history. First mentioned in the 13th century, it has served as a gate tower, a grain store, and even a prison. The current appearance is the result of several reconstructions, most notably after an earthquake in the 16th century. For a small fee, you can climb the stairs to the top for a 360-degree view of Sibiu’s red-tiled roofs and the distant Făgăraș Mountains. It is a fantastic spot to capture the layout of the city and see how the 'Eyes' look from above, nestled into the sea of orange ceramic tiles.

4

Large Square (Piața Mare)

Now, emerge into the Large Square, the largest and most impressive plaza in the city. Since the 14th century, this has been the center of public life, hosting markets, executions, and festivals. The buildings here are grander, reflecting the wealth of the Saxon merchants. Take note of the Blue House (Casa Albastră) and the Jesuit Church. The scale of this square allows for wide-angle photography that captures the harmony of the Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic styles all in one frame. Look closely at the roofs here too; while the eyes are present, they seem more regal and imposing compared to the cozy versions found in the Small Square.

5

Brukenthal National Museum

On the western side of the Large Square stands the Brukenthal Palace, now home to one of the oldest museums in the world. Built by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, the Governor of Transylvania, between 1777 and 1787, it is a prime example of late Baroque architecture. The palace was designed to house the Baron's extensive art collection and library. Even if you don't enter, the facade is a photographic highlight, featuring intricate stone carvings and a majestic courtyard. The Baron was a man of the Enlightenment, and his palace brought a touch of Viennese sophistication to the edge of the Habsburg Empire, marking a shift in Sibiu's architectural evolution from medieval fortress to cultural hub.

6

The Bridge of Lies

Conclude your walking route at the Bridge of Lies, just a short walk back toward the Small Square. Cast in 1859, it was the first iron bridge in Romania. Legend has it that the bridge has ears and can 'feel' when someone tells a lie while standing on it, causing it to creak and groan. A more practical explanation for the name comes from a linguistic mix-up: the bridge was originally called the 'Lying Bridge' because it lacked pillars (lying across the gap), which sounds similar to the word for 'lying' (telling untruths) in German. It is the most photographed spot in Sibiu, especially with the view looking down into the Lower Town. It’s the perfect place to reflect on the stories and sights of this watchful city.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Eyes of Sibiu' walk is the best choice, as it focuses specifically on the unique architectural features like the eyebrow windows and the panoramic views from the Council Tower. This route takes you through Huet Square, the Small Square, and the Large Square, which are the most photogenic spots in the city.