Burg-Hostel in the Medieval Citadel of Sighișoara, regarded as the oldest private youth hostel in Romania and a member of the Hostelling International network, is closing its doors after 25 years. The decision to close came following a rent increase of nearly nine times the previous level—an unsustainable cost for an entity focused on the social economy and affordable rates.
Operations began in 2001 with the restoration of severely degraded buildings, a process that expanded the usable floor area by approximately 50%. The Interethnic Education Center for Youth Sighișoara (IBZ), led by Volker Reiter, operated within this framework. The hostel’s economic model did not seek profit maximization, but rather aimed to cover operational expenses and preserve jobs while supporting educational and community projects, such as the ProEtnica festival and the CURCUBEU initiative. Management stated that the substantial rent increase could not be passed on to guests through commercial rates without compromising the organization’s social mission. The closure occurs right before the 22nd edition of the ProEtnica Intercultural Festival (August 26–30), an event for which the hostel served as a logistical base, though representatives noted that integration and youth projects will continue in an alternative format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Burg-Hostel Sighișoara closing?
The hostel is ceasing operations due to a rent increase of nearly nine times, which is unsustainable for its non-profit, social economy model.
Who managed the hostel and what was its mission?
It was managed by the Interethnic Education Center for Youth (IBZ), led by Volker Reiter, focusing on community support and events like ProEtnica rather than profit.
Will the educational and youth projects continue?
Yes, representatives have stated that integration and youth initiatives will continue under a different organizational format.