Medieval Europe in Modern Times
Villagers in Transylvania are reviving their cultural heritage — and protecting the last medieval landscapes left in Europe.
Saxon Houses in Daia, Romania by Eugen VaidaWorld Monuments Fund
Welcome to Europe's Last Medieval Landscapes
Founded by Germanic settlers beginning in the 12th century, the Carpathian Villages were originally built along the Transylvanian Alps as defensive outposts.
Town in Carpathian Villages, Transylvanian Alps by Global Heritage FundWorld Monuments Fund
Villagers built their homes using local materials — lime from nearby kilns, oak from the surrounding forests, stone from the hills, and bricks and tiles made by the craftsmen who lived in the area.
Today, these historical buildings face abandonment and ruin. Older generations move to urban centers, while younger residents choose to build new houses with modern conveniences rather than restore family homes.
Building in Carpathian Villages, Transylvanian Alps by Eugen VaidaWorld Monuments Fund
Yet the remaining homes still preserve distinct memories from a forgotten time. Local men and women passionate about their regional heritage are seizing the opportunity to restore and protect these irreplaceable sites, which provide lessons about sustainable building practices.
Tiles in the Transylvanian Alps by Global Heritage FundWorld Monuments Fund
To restore their homes, residents need traditional materials — such as handmade terracotta roof tiles that define the region’s distinctive architecture. Many local kilns have closed due to the rise of industrial manufacturing, and authentic tiles are in short supply.
Fort Church in Arquita, Transylvanian Alps by Global Heritage FundWorld Monuments Fund
As the tile trade eroded, some local homeowners were forced to modify their homes with cheap, modern tiles. These building restorations proved jarringly inconsistent with the architecture of traditional houses.
Apos Kiln in the Transylvanian Alps by Sorin OnisorWorld Monuments Fund
To revitalize the historic terracotta tile craft, Global Heritage Fund helped local residents develop two kilns where workers can now produce roof tiles using traditional methods and materials.
Community Members in Viscri, Transylvanian Alps by Global Heritage FundWorld Monuments Fund
In addition to traditional crafts revitalization and building restoration, local residents and authorities are also protecting their cultural heritage by educating younger generations.
Fort View in Viscri Village, Transylvanian Alps by Global Heritage FundWorld Monuments Fund
Efforts by global organizations and local partners have paid off, resulting in legislation and an active monitoring program that help villagers protect the irreplaceable cultural landscape of these medieval villages.
Discover More
Protecting the Historic Carpathian Villages
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Partners
The Anglo-Romanian Trust for Traditional Architecture (ARTTA)
The Monumentum Association
Romanian Order of Architects
Banca Comercială Română & Erste Group
Local Directorates of the Ministry of Culture of Romania
ADEPT
Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urbanism, Bucharest
Babes-Bolyai University
Townhall of Apold (Village of Daia)
