Small Square

The Small Square, former craftsmen market, is divided in two distinct parts by Ocnei Street, which descends below the Bridge of Lies towards the Lower Town.

The Northern and Easter sides of the square follow the contour of the second fortification belt, thus having a circular shape. Here, on the spot of the second belt of walls, there are several symbols of Sibiu City: Council Tower, Bridge of Lies, Butchers’ Hall (todays the House of Arts) or the Jesuits Church (Catholic).

The buildings on the left side of Ocnei Street have a concave shape and follow the contour of the first fortification belt separating the Small Square from Huet Square.

The buildings of the Small Square are dating since the 14th – 16th century and, with one exception, don’t have that massive arched gate, characteristic to the Large Square or to Bălcescu Street.

The element that defines the houses of the Small Square is the arched loggia on the ground floor, semi-opened towards the square, with semi-circle arcades, supported by bearing piles. These spaces used to serve as merchandise displays. The buildings of the Small Square used to accommodate the shops of the craftsmen.

The Small Square is connected to the Large Square and Huet Square through narrow tunnels of a specific charm and through paved lanes. The buildings are high and have those lenticular eyelets better known as „the eyes of Sibiu".

All the buildings of the Small Square are historical monuments.