Photogenic Saxon church revitalizes Romanian village of Hosman

The fortified Saxon church in Hosman, a picturesque village near Sibiu, Romania, is drawing tourists and revitalizing the community.

Built in the 13th century, the medieval evangelical church was once on the verge of abandonment in the 1990s as most of the village's Saxon inhabitants emigrated to Germany. However, concerted efforts by the local community and those abroad have helped preserve the structure.

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I emigrated from Hosman 35 years ago, around 1990. Some managed to leave earlier, even to flee. Others, like us, had to wait until Ceaușescu was worn down. Only then did we get permission to leave. Few have returned, some elderly, now 80-90 years old. Others, who sold their houses and left Romania, have returned to the village after buying other houses. Then they also bought houses that were no longer inhabited. Roma moved into some.

Over the past three decades, the church has undergone multiple repairs and has gradually become a key attraction for tourists traveling along the Hârtibaciu Valley. Its strategic location on a hill, surrounded by two circular defensive walls, and its harmonious integration with the backdrop of the snow-capped Făgăraș Mountains enhance its appeal. From the bridge over the Hârtibaciu River, visitors can see the church's silhouette against the mountain peaks.

Many Saxons who left Hosman in the early 1990s have since returned, some as elderly individuals visiting their former homes, while others have repurchased or bought new houses in the village. These returning families, alongside Roma and Romanian residents, are breathing new life into the village's old Saxon homesteads. Thomas Krauss, who emigrated 35 years ago, now spends three to four months a year in Hosman during the summer, reflecting on his past work as a driver and his current life in retirement.

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I was used to doing everything here, even though I only worked as a driver. In Germany, they told me: 'You have nothing to do with the car if it breaks down. You don't fix flats, engines, repairs. Others do that. You just drive.' It was much easier.