The stairway was commissioned in 1642 to ensure students could reach the school near the church regardless of winter weather.
The original 1642 configuration contained 300 steps, significantly more than the current 175.
The stairs lead directly to the 'Church on the Hill' (Biserica din Deal), which contains 15th-century frescoes.
The wooden roof serves both as protection against elements and as a structural element of the historical fortification wall.
The Covered Stairway, known locally as Scara Școlarilor (Scholars' Stairs), is a 17th-century wooden-roofed staircase connecting the lower town of Sighișoara to the Church on the Hill. Originally constructed in 1642, the structure features 175 wooden steps designed to protect students and churchgoers from heavy snow and harsh weather conditions. While it originally comprised 300 steps, a significant portion was removed in 1849 to create a more accessible path. The stairway functions as a primary pedestrian artery within the Sighișoara Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its construction consists of a steeply inclined stone foundation topped by a functional wooden corridor. The architectural design reflects the defensive and practical needs of the medieval Transylvanian town. It remains a core component of the fortified citadel's pedestrian infrastructure.
From the bottom looking up into the dark, tunnel-like wooden corridor.
Wear footwear with a strong grip, as the wooden steps can become slippery if moisture is present.
Take your time ascending, as the steep incline is physically demanding for those not used to stairs.
Visit the adjacent cemetery at the top of the stairs for a quiet historical exploration.
Do not attempt to run or rush up the stairs, as the wooden surface and steep rise pose a tripping hazard.
Maintain a quiet demeanor as the stairs are a main passage for local residents and visitors alike.
