ABOUT THE BOOK
A history nearly lost to time.
I Am Saxon chronicles the history of the little-known Transylvanian Saxons — from their humble beginnings in the 12th century as immigrants to a remote and sparsely populated area in the southern basin of the Carpathian Mountains, to the renowned trade guilds and seven beautiful, fortified towns they built.
During the medieval invasions of central Europe, the Transylvanian Saxons were called the wall and shield of Christendom. After eight hundred years, they were forced to evacuate their homeland in Siebenbürgen — the land of seven castles.
12th c
Origins
Saxons settle the southern Carpathian basin as invited immigrants.
Medieval
Wall & Shield
Fortified towns and guilds defend the eastern edge of Christendom.
Centuries
Cultural Bloom
A distinct Saxon nation flourishes within an ethnically diverse region.
20th c
Exodus
After 800 years, the Saxons are forced to evacuate Siebenbürgen.
“I Am Saxon pays homage to the legacy of the Transylvanian Saxon culture, which has all but disappeared from Siebenbürgen.”
JOURNAL
I Am Saxon Blog
Join me in exploring the rich history and unique culture of the Siebenbürger Saxons. Discover the traditions and heritage that define this remarkable community.
Seven Castles, Seven Centuries
How a small immigrant people built fortified towns that defined a region.
The Fortified Churches
Inside the stone sanctuaries that sheltered Saxon villages for generations.
REVIEWS
What readers are saying
“Karl Gagesch's book pleasantly surprised me, as it delves deeply into the history of the Saxons. The well-described history was unfamiliar to me, which made reading it very interesting. I was able to experience the close neighbourly and kinship bonds, as described in the book, very clearly with my paternal relatives. A thoroughly successful and interesting book, well worth reading — even for our children.”
RUTH & LOTHAR
I Am Saxon pays homage to the legacy of the Transylvanian Saxon culture, which has all but disappeared from Siebenbürgen.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karl Gagesch
A passionate history enthusiast inspired since childhood by the stories of the last generation of Siebenbürger Saxons. With a deep commitment to sharing this lesser-known chapter of European history, Karl's writing explores the unique legacy of an ethnic group that has nearly vanished from its homeland.
Now residing in the picturesque Niagara Falls, Canada, Karl enjoys life with his wife Gloria and their dog, Ziggy.