From the first basilica built in the 13th century the western portal is preserved – a most valuable testimony of the Romanesque architectural sculpture in Transylvania – as well as the pillars and arcades that once used to separate the central nave and the aisles. Looking carefully above the western portal, one may observe an immured sculpture representing two figures. Some argue that it is a depiction of the Baptism of Jesus, while others say it represents Adam and Eve. The observer is thus invited to solve this mystery by himself.
Around the year 1500 the bell tower was heightened and provided with a wooden battlement walk on consoles and the church’s side aisles were demolished. The two defence walls of the assembly, which were built during the 15th century, are connected by the gate tower and still exhibit remains of the former battlement walk and embrasures, vestiges of a rough past.
Place and surroundings
Amidst the picturesque valley of Hârtibaciu river lays the village of Hosman. The fortified church in the center of the settlement is one of the most photographed sunjects in Transylvania. In clear weather the church has as background the spectacular view of the often snow-caped mountains Făgăraşi, which formed once the boundary of the Austrian and respectively Hungarian sphere of influence. As part of the southern Carpathian, the mountains reach heights over 2.500m.
Today Hosman is one of the starting points of the Brukenthal cultural trails, by which one can explore the surroundings in trips up to nine days. On site the Association Hosman Durabil (Sustainable Hosman) supports the development of the settlement.
Guest rooms & Camping
The youth centre in the parish house offers 25 places in three rooms, as well as an office, lounge, dining room, kitchen, bathroom and a beautiful barn in the courtyard. The large garden is suitable for camping and campfires. Groups are welcome to help with repair work in and around the parish house.
Information & reservation:
Ruth István
phone: +40 769 668 634
e-mail: jzholzmengen@gmail.com
Activities
- 2021 Workshop of the European Heritage Volunteers association
- since 2018 Annual Christmas market on the grounds of the fortified church
The association CEPIT Hosman looks after the parish house, organises interethnic and ecumenical youth and cultural events and is committed to the preservation of the fortified church.
