One of the oldest settlements in Romania, Alba has been one of the leading wine growing regions since the 1st century AD. During Roman rule, the city served as the region’s military and economic center and was rendered a copy of Rome in miniature. The city reached its heydey between 1542 and 1690 when it served as the capital of the independent Principality of Transylvania and seat of the Transylvanian princes. The peasant revolt on February 28, 1785 turned the city into a symbol of justice and freedom. Today, visitors can explore the wide, tree lined boulevards of the Habsburg Citadel - a massive 18th century fortress with baroque elements, or visit the oldest monument in Transylvania - the Roman Catholic Cathedral. The city’s rich history is embodied by its regal estates, such as the Apor Palace and the Princely Palace.