Medieval Fortress of Mehadia

As you journey through the picturesque land of the Banat Mountains, heading towards Orșova, just a few kilometers from Băile Herculane, your eyes are drawn to the ruins of an ancient fortress. Located on Barcan Hill in Mehadia, these ruins mark the place where an important medieval fortress once stood.

Built in the 12th century by the noble Gutkeled family, the Mehadia Medieval Fortress became over time a strategic point of reference in the defense system of the Hungarian Kingdom's border. For a few years in the 15th century, it even served as the residence of the Teutonic Knights. Later, it was reinforced by John Hunyadi, playing a considerable role in the offensive against the Ottoman Empire.

Today, the ruins invite you to discover a fragment of the area's history, so don't hesitate! The road there is not difficult at all!

Brief historical insight

The first documentary attestation of the Mehadia Fortress dates back to 1323, mentioned in a charter issued during the reign of King Charles Robert of Anjou. 

Taken over by the Hungarian royalty, the fortress became part of the system of Banat counties, with a military role. Between 1429-1435, the Teutonic Knights resided in Mehadia, brought by King Sigismund of Luxembourg. 

In the 16th century, the fortress fell into the hands of the Turks. 

During the Third Austro-Turkish War (1737-1739), the Mehadia Fortress was besieged by the Turks, who emerged victorious. The fortification was only destroyed in the Fourth Austro-Turkish War (1788-1791).

Architectural features

The Mehadia Medieval Fortress was erected on the narrow ridge of Barcan Hill, in a high place surrounded by cliffs. The fortress was only accessible from the north, which is why the keep was built here, with a hexagonal base and massive walls, 2.5 meters thick and over 16 meters high. The keep included a vaulted ground floor and several floors, separated by wooden platforms supported by walls. It's worth noting that Roman spolia were used in its construction. 

In the 15th century, the fortification was reinforced, with the walls raised and another circular tower built. Another tower was identified at the gate. The entrance to the fortress was ensured by a bridge with stone pillars. A road passing through a ditch carved in the rock made access to the fortification possible.

Unique Experiences

If you find yourself in Mehadia, it's worth taking a hike to Bobot Waterfall, where you'll feel inspired by the wilderness of nature and the spectacle offered by the waterfall. You'll find it on the Sfârdinul Mare Valley, just 3 km from the village center. The forest road is accessible by off-road vehicle, bicycle, or on foot. 

Another interesting natural formation is Râpa Neagră, a geological reserve where you'll see less common relief forms. 

And if you're interested in historical vestiges, in Mehadia you can visit not only the Medieval Fortress but also the Roman Fort Praetorium and the Broken Church.