The Fagaras Citadel, located in the midway between Brasov and Sibiu, held a dominant strategic position in Southern Transylvania during The Middle Ages. It was built at the end of the 15th century, on the place of an older fortification made of timber and earth. After 1688, the citadel was used by the Austrians exclusively for military purposes, the construction suffering from progressive deterioration. Between 1948 and 1960, the citadel was transformed by the Communist Regime into a political prison. During 1964-1977, it was restored, and partially transformed into a museum.