The oldest of the fortified churches in and around Brasov, that at Codlea was built in 1225 to guard the Drumul Sasilor (Saxon Way) from Sibiu to Brasov. The only church in the area not to have a bell tower, much of the original construction remains, although it was extensively renovated and strengthened in the 15th century, when the defensive walls and five towers were added. Since 1892 the tallest of the towers, the Turnul Fierarilor (Ironworkers Tower), also serves as the church’s bell-tower.