The Passion Cycle in the Sanctuaries of the Saxon Fortified Churches in Southern Transylvania

Medieval Saxon fortified churches in southern Transylvania, including Mălâncrav, Curciu, Râşnov, and Sibiu, feature intricate Passion Cycle murals in their sanctuaries, particularly on the northern choir wall. These paintings serve a dual purpose: they educate through their strong biblical connection while also fostering devotion during religious services. The study reveals that the placement of these scenes near the most sacred space of the church was deliberate, aiming to immerse worshippers in the narrative of Christ's Passion. Through stylistic and iconographic analysis, the research highlights the significance of this artistic tradition, which not only adorns the churches but also plays a functional role in liturgical practice.

COBUZ, R.-G. (2021). The Passion Cycle in the Sanctuaries of the Saxon Fortified Churches in Southern Transylvania. Studia Universitatis Babeș-Bolyai Historia, 43–66. https://doi.org/10.24193/subbhist.2021.spiss.03