Cetatea Devei

Deva Citadel dominates the town from an isolated volcanic cone, visible from far away across the Mureș Valley. Built in the 13th century and extended over the centuries, it was one of Transylvania's strongest fortresses, tied to great noble families and the province's turbulent history. Today you climb on foot, along rocky paths, or comfortably by an inclined funicular that starts from the park at the foot of the hill. The well-consolidated ruins preserve walls, bastions and gates, and from the top opens one of the finest panoramas in western Romania, over the town, the Mureș and the distant mountains.

The citadel hill is also a nature reserve, notable for its horned vipers and rock flora. It is an ideal stop on the way to Corvin Castle in nearby Hunedoara. Check the funicular schedule and wear good shoes if you choose to climb on foot.