Citadel's Guard is an powerful element in the restoration process of the Alba Iulia Fortress because the presence of the guards gives an extra authenticity to a place that has already a special atmosphere, a place whose walls are built of bricks and stories and where each edifice has behind centuries of history. In such a way, the spectacular parade of the Guard brings to life the walls of the largest citadel in Romania.
The uniforms worn by Citadel's Guard soldiers differ depending on the season, although there are all inspired by the Austrian military uniforms from the middle of the 18th century. The uniforms are also specific to each category of soldiers: cavalry, artillery, infantry. Moreover, each category has its own commander and its own flag.
At the time when Alba Iulia was the capital of Transylvania and because of that under the control of the Imperial army, later on of the Austro-Hungarian army or in the end of the Romanian army, the Citadel distinguished itself in the area through numerous military ceremonies and parades.
In memory of those times, from May to September, the Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place every day at 12:00, but it becomes more festive especially on Saturdays when, after the soldiers honour the South Gate of the Roman Castrum, the flag is erected in front of the Eugene of Savoy Bastion. Then the soldiers head for the artillery platform where a new flag is being raised and start the cannon shots in honour of the Citadel's flag and the guests of Alba Carolina.
Tourists are allowed to take pictures of the Citadel's Guard, thus keeping memories of the pleasant moments of their journey through the capital of Transylvania.