The Fortresses` Tournament
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On July 15th 2011 the Fortresses` Tournament series begun with horse shows, medieval market places, knights duels, medieval music and a show for children. This year there will be four tournaments: in Rasnov between July 15th and 17th, in Bran between August 12th and 14th, in Fagaras between August 18th and 21st, and between September 2nd and 4th the knights will take part in the Days of Feldioara, an EU-funded event. The purpose of such medieval events is to mark 800 years of history of the Teutonic Knights in Tara Barsei region. The year 2011 is considered the year of Brasov's fortresses.
Tradition and history
”These tournaments are an opportunity to promote this area and to mark the coming of the Teutonic Knights in our region. Both the Saxons and the officials from Germany, who have a common culture, are largely interested in this matter. In Brasov there are 940 monuments, of which 80% have remained from the period when the Saxons used to live in these places. Important funds have been and will be allotted by the County Board for the rehabilitation of such monuments, as well as of the fortresses of Rasnov, Feldioara, Fagaras and Rupea. The purpose is to revive the history of these fortresses,” said Mr. Aristotel Cancescu, Chairman of the Brasov County Council.
A diversified calendar
The Mayors of the tournament towns entered a partnership, including with Bran Castle, for the purpose of having a diversified calendar of events. Bran promotes the local culture and it is the only rural town taking part in this project.
“The Fortress is in the middle of a rehabilitation process; emergency restoration works will be performed here, amounting to one million euros. Despite this, the fortress` area offers good opportunities to organize a tournament and to promote the region,” said Mr. Adrian Vestea, Mayor of Rasnov town.
“These tournaments and the medieval fortresses, which are considered a gold mine, are the only events which attract a large number of tourists. The competition between fortresses adds value to Brasov's image,” said Mr. Sorin Manduc, Mayor of Fagaras town.
Medieval contests with prize awarding ceremony
”We invite you all to take part in the four tournaments of Brasov's fortresses, where you can enjoy the knights` challenges. The tourists have the chance to transform into princesses and knights and going back in time can get a real feel of those medieval times. Medieval contests awarded with great prizes will be organized and the winners will spend a romantic weekend trip for two in Sibiu or receive a basket of Sergiana meat products, enough for an entire year,” said Mr. Christian Macedonschi, Chairman of the Association for the Development of Tourism in Brasov.