Black Tower (Turnul Negru), Brasov

The Black Tower in Brasov is a prominent historical structure originally built in the 15th century, sharing its period of erection with the nearby White Tower. Positioned just outside the Brasov Citadel walls, on a rock of Warthe Hill, and near the Blacksmiths' Bastion, the tower served as a critical part of the city's defense system, especially against approaches from the Schei area.

Standing over 11 meters high and covering an area of 50 square meters, the Black Tower features robust walls that are 2 meters thick at the base. Designed for defense, it has six firing holes on each side, strategically arranged in three rows for optimal coverage. Inside, it comprises three-storied galleries that were historically accessible via a drawbridge linking it to the Citadel.

The tower's name derives from the aftermath of a fire in 1689, which blackened its walls. This fire, along with a lightning strike in 1559, destroyed the original roof—a feature that underwent multiple reconstructions, the most recent being after the tower was damaged significantly by torrential rain in 1991. Despite various appeals for restoration over the centuries, consistent upkeep was neglected until significant efforts in 1901 and a full restoration in 1996.

Historically, the Black Tower has played various roles, including acting as a lookout during the 1756 plague epidemic. Today, it houses a museum, offering visitors insights into its storied past and a panoramic view of the surrounding area, making it a significant historical landmark in Brasov.