Situated in Transylvania, Alba-Iulia is one of the most beautiful cities you can visit in this region. The city has a long and rich history. Known as Apullum during the Roman period and as Alba Carolina during Middle Age, the city gathers the remains of the old civilizations that once populated this land.
The term ‘Alba’ is related to the white color of the ancient Roman citadel, while ‘Carolina’ comes from the name of the emperor that required to rebuilt the fortress, Charles VI of Habsburg.
Alba-Iulia is the city where the union of Transylvania with the Kingdom of Romania was proclaimed on Dec 1, 1918.
One of the seventh entries
Since High Middle Ages, it has been one of the most important cities for Roman Catholics followers.
The main historical area hosts a fortress with seven bastions in a stellar shape, which was built in 18th century by two Swiss architects. The fortress was shaped on the former Roman castrum.
Inside, there are several landmarks which you shouldn’t miss.
Bastion walls
Some old guns
The entry to Romanian Orthodox Cathedral
The Roman Catholic Cathedral - its tower dates from 17th century
Porta Principalis Dextra - an ancient entry of Apulum castrum
During the evening, they change the guard. Some images I took in one of the evenings:
© Alina Barbu
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