The Clock Tower is a symbol of Sighișoara and one of its main tourist attractions. Browse displays of historic local handicrafts, tools, and furniture, and climb to the top for views out over the winding cobbled streets. Guided walking tours of Sighișoara typically pass by the Clock Tower, while multiday tours of Transylvania often make stops at the tower as well as at other Transylvania highlights such as Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle), Peles Castle in Sinaia, Rupea Fortress, and Viscri.
The Clock Tower is situated in the heart of Sighișoara. Walking from the train station takes about 15 minutes; cross the river near the Orthodox Cathedral and head toward the medieval citadel.
The Clock Tower is busiest June through August, and you may have to wait to climb up or down the stairs at this time, as the narrow stairway can only accommodate limited numbers. To avoid the crowds, go in the shoulder season (April to May, or September to October).
The Clock Tower is one of several defensive towers in Sighișoara, most of which were built by Saxon craft guilds to protect the town from Turkish raids. While there were originally 14 towers, only nine have survived to the present day. Among the most notable examples still standing are the 13th-century Ropemakers’ Tower, the oldest tower in town, and the 14th-century Tailors’ Tower (Turnul Croitorilor), which stood watch over the rear entrance to the citadel.
