Maria's Tower in the Fortress of Light, the place where Vlad the Impaler was imprisoned.

The Maria Tower of Mediaș

Among the towers of the old fortress of Mediaș, there is also the Maria Tower, located in close proximity to the Saint Margaret Church. The history of this tower is intertwined with several stories, many of which are still known today by those who live nearby.

Historical Significance

It is said that the tower, built in the southeast part of the fortification above an old cellar, was once used to imprison the feared Vlad the Impaler for several hours on his way to Visegrad (*Hungary*), where he was held for 12 years.

Another story is related to the presence of the plague in Romania. In the mid-14th century, it is said that a chapel operated in the Maria Tower.

Torture Chamber

The immense cellar of this tower was at one time also used as a torture chamber where criminals and thieves from the fortress were imprisoned. The structure of the tower seems to confirm this:

• The massive entrance door is equipped with many locks.
• Inside the tower, there is a room with vaulted ceilings shaped like a cross.
• The interior lighting is very dim, which adds to the tower's air of mystery.