The new Executive Director of the Fortified Churches Foundation, Cristian Cismaru, could hardly wait to put his newly developed concept for revitalizing fortified churches into practice. For several weeks, he had been intensively exploring expanded usage possibilities for these special structures and had developed a comprehensive program that includes cultural, historical, and tourism-related activities.
In doing so, Cismaru drew on his almost twenty years of experience in the tourism industry, particularly on the success of his “Transylvanian Brunch” concept – in short: spending a day in a scenic environment with historical buildings, complemented, of course, by local cuisine.
He has now expanded and adapted this concept to meet the needs of his new employer, the Fortified Churches Foundation, and his guests, primarily young families from the big cities. It is important to the Foundation that these magnificent historical monuments and places of worship are preserved and actively used.
How this can look in practice was demonstrated by the first brunch held at the fortified church of Hundertbücheln. About 80 people, mainly families with children from nearby cities, but also guests from Târgu Mureș, Cluj-Napoca, and Țara Bârsei, took the opportunity to spend this Saturday at the end of April together.
The schedule was straightforward: at eleven o’clock, Cristian Cismaru welcomed the guests under radiant sunshine and immediately drew attention to the importance of preserving such structures as this fortified church. A small portion of the entrance fee contributed to the co-financing of repair and renovation work.
Of course, Cismaru knows that this initial sum is merely a drop in the ocean. His idea is that through this series of events, more and more people will learn about and appreciate these valuable monuments and eventually be motivated to support the preservation of these historic structures financially even outside of event days.
After the organizer’s introductory speech, guests moved to the buffet, which left nothing to be desired. Local caterers provided carefully prepared specialties, with and without meat, all presented beautifully and appealing to the eye. Some families who had attended similar events in recent years particularly appreciated the unique atmosphere combining culinary delights, picturesque surroundings, and insights into the history, culture, and life of the Transylvanian Saxons.
Following the meal, Cismaru gathered the guests for a short presentation on the historical background of the fortified churches, followed by a guided tour of the church. The tour was led jointly by Jonas, who has lived in the parsonage in Hundertbücheln for several years, and Sebastian Bethge, who, through his extended stay in Transylvania and numerous efforts in church restoration, has become a sought-after expert in this field.
There were many questions and many photographs taken – good signs of the guests’ great interest and a motivation for the organizer that this new concept has real potential. Representatives from other communities even inquired whether such a “breakfast event” could also be held in their villages and under what conditions. For this year, everything is already planned, as Cismaru explained, but next year should bring new opportunities.
For the afternoon, the organizers had prepared a small children’s program. The Foundation developed a quiz on the topic of fortified churches, printed in a small booklet with illustrations. Additionally, coloring books featuring castle motifs were available for the children. Meanwhile, their parents could continue to relax over coffee and enjoy a tasty Hanklich or apple pie.
Originally, a short hike across the many surrounding hills (hence the name of the village: “Hundertbücheln” – “One Hundred Hills”) had been planned, but the rain that set in disrupted these plans.
The new concept for expanded uses of the fortified churches has gotten off to an excellent start with this combination of tourism, gastronomy, and culture. Now, the focus is on reaching as many people as possible, including those willing to provide financial support and/or get involved locally. With such engagement, the fortified churches have a good chance of survival, at least in the medium term.
The next brunch will take place at the fortified church in Criț on May 10.
