The fortress of Calnic was a noble residence since its construction in the 12th century until 1430, when it was sold to the peasants from the surrounding village who subsequently dealt with the strengthening of the gate tower, the construction of a new belt of walls and the chapel. In contrast to other fortifications, it is not the church that stands out, but rather the keep, the tower that was originally used as a home.

The church is surrounded by a cemetery, is situated on a hill and it was modified in the 19th century. This 'modification' explains its neo-Gothic appearance.

The fortification was restored between 1961 and 1964, and today there is an international cultural centre which belongs to the Institute of Archeology and Art History of the Romanian Academy in Cluj-Napoca.

The Calnic fortress is one of the few fortresses where there is the possibility of accommodation inside the fortress, next to the gate tower. An added bonus for those staying in one of the 2 three-bedded rooms, is that they need not pay the the entrance and shooting fees.