Lazar Castle, from the era of glory to decline

Lázár Castle Overview

Lázár Castle, built by the family of the same name, is a construction that combines Romanesque, Renaissance, and Gothic styles, located in the commune of Lăzarea, Harghita County. On the site of the current castle, there was a medieval manor in the 16th century that was partially demolished by Stephen IV Lázár. The oldest part of the building dates back to 1532, with the rest added between 1631-1632. From the beginning, there was a desire to construct a massive and unique bastion complex in Transylvania with an important role in the Principality.

Historical Significance

One of the most significant Transylvanian figures, Prince Bethlen Gábor, spent his childhood in Lázár Castle between 1590 and 1594. In the so-called "*scythe dungeon*," a building in the middle of the courtyard, participants in popular uprisings were held during the castle's glory days.

Destruction and Reconstruction

The Lázár family castle was set on fire and devastated by the Habsburgs between 1706-1707, with the residential wing being the most affected. The central walls collapsed, and only the eastern ones remained intact. After the Lázár family regained the trust of the imperial house, Francis IV appointed Gheorghe Lázár as the judge of the Ciuc, Gheorgheni, and Cașin seats in 1742. Following this appointment, the family moved their residence back to Lăzarea. Here, they built a new baroque wing called "*The Lady's House" in 1742*. Later, after six years, the castle was once again set on fire, and no further reconstructions took place after that.

Later Developments

In 1773, the castle was divided among the three members of the family, but only a small part was inhabited. The most significant renovations of Lázár Fortress took place between 1963-1982, during which the following were consolidated and reconstructed:

• The Red Bastion
• The truncated bastion
• The dungeon
• The gatehouse
• The southern façade
• Paintings from 1532

Current Management

Lázár Castle is currently managed by the County Center for Creation, but there are also descendants of the Lázár family who can claim it.