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Romania

Pitesti	Sighisoara	Brasov	Iasi
Timisoara	Tirgumures	lBucharest	Cluj
Transilvania	Curteadearges	Tirgu Mures	Deva

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Romania Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see PIATRA CRAIULUI PIATRA CRAIULUI Romania (Capital city: Bucharest) is bordered to the north and east by Moldova and Ukraine, the southeast by the Black Sea, the south by Bulgaria, the southwest by Serbia and in the west by Hungary. The country is divided into four geographical areas. Transylvania (a belt of Alpine massifs and forests) and Moldavia compose the northern half of the country, which is divided down the middle by the north–south strip of the Carpathian Mountains. South of the east–west line of the Carpathians lies the flat Danube plain of Walachia with the capital Bucharest, its border with Bulgaria being defined by the course of the Danube. Romania’s coastline is along the Black Sea, incorporating the port of Constanta and the Danube Delta. The region between the Black Sea and the Danube (after it veers North), is also known as Dobrudja (Dobrogea). Language Romanian is the official language originating in Dacian and Latin. Recent linguistic research tends to put Dacian at the origins of ancient Latin and Romanian language may be seen as the main proof for this idea. Some Hungarian is spoken in the Northwest, while mainly French and some English are spoken by those connected with the tourist industry. Religion 86.8% Romanian Orthodox, 5.6% Catholic, 3.7% Reformed, Lutheran and Unitarian, 2.8% Evangelical Protestant (or neo-Protestant as they are called in Romania), 0.3% Muslim and 0.03% Jewish. The spread of the various non-Orthodox denominations around the country is uneven, with the strongest presence in the West of the country (Banat, Crisana, Transylvania) but also in Northern Moldavia and in the large cities. Time Zone GMT + 2 (GMT + 3 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in September). Electricity 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the two-pin type. Communications Telephone: IDD is available. Country code: 40. International direct dialing prefix: 00. National direct dialing prefix:0. Public telephones are widely available and can be used for direct international calls. Hotels often impose a high service charge for long-distance calls, but usually do not charge for local calls. Mobile telephones GSM 900/1800 networks. Network operators include Cosmote (website: www.cosmote.com), Orange (website: www.orange.ro), Vodafone (website: www.vodafone.ro) and Zapp Mobile (website: www.zappmobile.ro), RDS mobile (Digi mobile)- smaller prices for national and international calls. Internet RDS, Kappa and PC-Net are three of the largest of the 250 ISPs. RDS has developed broadband serviced in most major cities. Kappa has open-air terminals at Strada Paulescu Nicolae 9, Bucharest, while PC-Net is at Strada Calderon Jean Louis 1-5, Bucharest. Sweet Internet Cafe, Strada Maria Rosetti 7-9, Bucharest (tel: (21) 212 4111) has 24-hour access, as do a couple others of Bucharest's dozen or so Internet cafes. You can find free wireless hotspots in some of the major cities:Bucharest, Timisoara etc Post Airmail to Western Europe takes 1 week. Post offices are open daily, including Saturday mornings. DHL is also available in most of big cities. ________Sights Edit This The Happy Cemetery The Happy Cemetery www.romaniatours.us Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: gfmhjxl gvruzyxt Contributors January 14, 2008 change by romaniatours.us [Add Sight] The Happy Cemetery Edit This The Happy Cemetery The Happy Cemetery photo by: www.romaniatours.us Close to the Ukrainian border in northwest Romania, the Happy Cemetery dates back to 1935 and contains about 800 headstones. The Happy Cemetery in Sapanta, also called "The Folk Art Museum", is a fresco of community life, unique in the world, where the dead are celebrated with humorous poems recalling their lives. The headboards are sculptured from wood and the primitive painted images reflect the most important or best-known times of the deceased. They are the creation of sculptor more.. type: Hotspots World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.romaniatours.us address: Sapinta _________History Edit This From about 200 B.C. when it was settled by the Dacians- a Thracian tribe, Romanian territory has been on the path of a series of migrations and conquests. Under the emperor Trajan, early in the second century A.D., Dacia was incorporated into the Roman empire- but was abandoned by a declining Rome less than two centuries later. Romanian territory disappeared from recorded history for hundreds of years to re-emerge in the medieval period as the Principalities of Moldavia and Wallachia. Heavily taxed and badly administered under the Ottoman empire, the two Principalities were unified under a single native prince in 1859 and had their full independence ratified in the 1878 Treaty of Berlin. A German prince- Carol of Hohenzollern, was crowned first King of Romania in 1881. The new state, squeezed between the Ottoman Austro-Hungarian and Russian empires, with Slav neighbors on three sides, looked to the West, particularly France for its cultural educational and administrative models. Romania was an ally of the Entente and the U.S.in World War I and was granted back substantial territories with Romanian populations (notably Transylvania Bessarabia and Bukovina) after the war. Most of Romania's pre-World War II governments maintained the forms but not the substance of a liberal constitutional monarchy. The quasi-mystical fascist Iron Guard movement exploiting nationalism fear of communism and resentment of alleged foreign and Jewish domination of the economy was a key factor in the creation of a dictatorship in 1938. In 1940-41 the authoritarian General Antonescu took control. Romania entered World War II on the side of the Axis Powers in June 1941 invading the Soviet Union to recover Bessarabia and Bukovina which had been annexed in 1940. In August 1944 a coup led by King Michael with support from opposition politicians and the army deposed the Antonescu dictatorship and put Romania's battered armies on the side of the Allies. Romania incurred additional heavy casualties fighting the Germans in Transylvania Hungary and Czechoslovakia. The peace treaty signed at Paris on February 10 1947 confirmed the Soviet annexation of Bessarabia and northern Bukovina but restored the part of northern Transylvania granted to Hungary in 1940 by Hitler. The treaty required massive war reparations by Romania to the Soviet Union whose occupying forces left in 1958. The Soviets pressed for inclusion of Romallnia's heretofore negligible Communist Party in the post-war government while non-communist political leaders were steadily eliminated from political life. King Michael abdicated under pressure in December 1947 when the Romanian People's Republic was declared and went into exile. In the early 1960s Romania's communist government began to assert some independence from the Soviet Union. Nicolae Ceausescu became head of the Communist Party in 1965 and head of state in 1967. Ceausescu's denunciation of the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia and a brief relaxation in internal repression helped give him a positive image both at home and in the West. Seduced by Ceausescu's "independent" foreign policy Western leaders were slow to turn against a regime that by the late 1970s had become increasingly harsh arbitrary and capricious. Rapid economic growth fueled by foreign credits gradually gave way to wrenching austerity and severe political repression. After the collapse of communism in the rest of Eastern Europe in the late summer and fall of 1989, a mid-December protest in Timisoara against the forced relocation of a Hungarian minister (Laszlo Tokes) grew into a country-wide protest against the Ceausescu regime sweeping the dictator from power. Ceausescu and his wife were executed on December 25 1989 after a cursory military trial. Approximately 1500 people were killed in confused street fighting. An impromptu governing coalition the National Salvation Front (NSF) installed itself and proclaimed the restoration of democracy and freedom. The Communist Party was outlawed and Ceausescu's most unpopular measures such as bans on abortion and contraception were repealed. Ion Iliescu- a former Communist Party official demoted by Ceausescu in the 1970s- emerged as the leader of the NSF. Presidential and parliamentary elections were held on May 20 1990. Running against representatives of the pre-war National Peasants' Party and National Liberal Party Iliescu won 85% of the vote. The NSF captured two-thirds of the seats in Parliament named a university professor Petre Roman as Prime Minister and began cautious free market reforms. The new government made a crucial early misstep. Unhappy at the continued political and economic influence of members of the Ceausescu-era elite anti-communist protesters had camped in University Square in April 1990. When miners from the Jiu Valley descended on Bucharest two months later and brutally dispersed the remaining "hooligans " President Iliescu by expressing public thanks convinced many that the government had sponsored the miners. The miners also attacked the headquarters and houses of opposition leaders. The Roman Government fell in late September 1991 when the miners returned to Bucharest to demand higher salaries and better living conditions. A technocrat Theodor Stolojan was appointed to head an interim government until new elections could be held. Parliament drafted a new democratic constitution approved by popular referendum in December 1991. National elections in September 1992 returned President Iliescu by a clear majority and gave his party the NSF a plurality. With parliamentary support from the nationalist PUNR and PRM parties and the ex-communist PSM party an NSF/technocratic government was formed in November 1992 under Prime Minister Nicolae Vacaroiu an economist. The NSF became the Party of Social Democracy of Romania (PDSR) in July 1993. The Vacaroiu government ruled in coalition with three smaller parties all of which abandoned the coalition by the time of the November 1996 elections. Emil Constantinescu of the Democratic Convention electoral coalition defeated President Iliescu in the second round of voting by 6% and replaced him as chief of state. The PDSR won the largest number of seats in parliament but the constituent parties of the CDR joined the Democratic Party the National Liberal Party and the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania to form a centrist coalition government holding 60% of the seats in parliament. Victor Ciorbea a former labor lawyer and government prosecutor was named Prime Minister. The new government outlined as top priorities shock economic reform (including privatization/closure of state enterprises and monetary and fiscal reform) decentralization and a campaign against corruption. Since then, the Social Democratic Party led by Ion Iliescu and Adrian Nastase had another turn in power, between 2000 and 2004. Although there was economical growth in the second part of this interval, Romania's record on coruption and poor justice worsened. In the 2004 elections, although a coalition led by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) won the majority of seats, the marginal victory in the presidential elections of Traian Basescu, of the Justice and Truth Alliance (JTA), over Adrian Nastase, of SDP, turned around the results of the elections, as he nominated Calin Popescu Tariceanu, a liberal, as prime minister. As a result, a coalition was formed around JTA (formed initially by the liberals and the democrats), with the Democratic Union of Hungarians and the Romanian Humanist Party, the latter giving thus up its pre-election alliance with SDP. ________-Practical Information Edit This Currency The local currency is the Romanian Leu (ROL) [Add Practical address] Cost of Living in Bucharest Edit This Meal for 1 at inexpensive restaurant/fast-food….…….…….$5.5 Meal for 2, mid-range restaurant………….……...$17 Domestic beer (0.5 liter draught)………....……....$1.5 Loaf of fresh bread……………………..………..$0.50 Bottle of Romanian wine………………...……….$5-$10 Water (0.5 liter bottle)……………..…..………...$1 type: Tourist information World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.romaniatours.us ____________Getting Around Edit This CFR - Romanian Railways CFR - Romanian Railways By Train Romania's Railway Network, CFR, is very well connected to major cities and towns throughout the country. There are five different types of trains in Romania: PERSONAL (P) & PERSONAL MOTOR (PM) - very slow cheap trains that are mainly used by locals travelling short distances as they make many stops in the small and rural towns, they are typically crowded and in bad conditions. ACCELERAT (A) - The conditions are much the same as Personal but these trains travel longer distances as they stop only in the bigger towns and cities and are mainly used by locals as well. RAPID (R) - These trains are slightly faster than Accelerat and less crowded. The conditions main vary from the same as Accelerat to modern equipped trains depending on the wagon used for your route, so you might get lucky with these ones. INTERCITY (IC) - Are more modern trains with air-conditioned wagons and dining cars during the day. They run routes from Bucharest to Cluj, Timisoara, Iasi and have an express service to the Black Sea Coast. EURO CITY (EC) - Run by Hungarian Railways with regular services between Budapest to Bucharest Be sure to ask at the train station if seat reservations are required as it is necessary on some trains. You can see routes and times on CFR's website: www.cfr.ro Economy Edit This Economy—overview: Nowadays Romania is recovering from being one of the poorer countries in the region (due to a difficult transition from communism to a market-based economy). After the collapse of the Soviet Bloc in 1989-91 Romania was left with an obsolete industrial base and a pattern of industrial capacity wholly unsuited to its needs. For the next few years the country lagged behind most of its neighbors in the pace of restructuring. Then in February 1997 Romania embarked on a comprehensive macroeconomic stabilization and structural reform program. The domestic foreign exchange market was freed and controls on current-account convertibility were removed in October. Restructuring programs include liquidating large energy-intensive industries and agricultural and financial sector reform. The private sector share of GDP rose to an estimated 58% in 1997 however this total includes firms with government-held minority stakes. Although progress has been made in privatizing small- and medium-sized firms delays in structural reforms—including the postponement of sales of large state-owned enterprises - threaten plans to revive GDP growth. In 1998 GDP will likely be unchanged; and inflation is projected to fall to 45% from 151% in 1997. In 2003 the euro was made the official foreign currency reference, though the US dollar is still widely mentioned. In 2006 the Romanian currency, ROL, evolved to a newer and stronger value, re-named RON, and its evolution on the global market was very visible. January 2007 also marks the integration of Romania in the European Union. GDP: purchasing power parity—$114.2 billion (1997 est.) GDP—real growth rate: -6.6% (1997 est.) GDP—per capita: purchasing power parity—$5 300 (1997 est.) GDP—composition by sector: agriculture: 19% industry: 36% services: 45% (1996) Inflation rate—consumer price index: 151% (1997 est.) Labor force: total: 10.1 million (1996 est.) by occupation: industry 28.6% agriculture 34.4% trade 10.4% construction 5.1% other 21.5% (1995) Unemployment rate: 8.8% (1997 est.) Budget: revenues: $10 billion expenditures: $11.7 billion including capital expenditures of $1.3 billion (1997 est.) Industries: mining timber construction materials metallurgy chemicals machine building food processing petroleum production and refining Industrial production growth rate: -5.9% (1997 est.) Electricity—capacity: 22.06 million kW (1995) Electricity—production: 55.19 billion kWh (1995) Electricity—consumption per capita: 2 412 kWh (1995) Agriculture—products: wheat corn sugar beets sunflower seed potatoes grapes; milk eggs meat Exports: total value: $8.4 billion (f.o.b. 1997 est.) commodities: textiles and footwear 27.5% metals and metal products 16.2% mineral products 9.0% chemicals 11.2% other 36.1% (1996) partners: Germany 18.1% Italy 16.7% France 5.6% Turkey 5% Netherlands 4.2% China 3.0% (1996) Imports: total value: $10.4 billion (f.o.b. 1997 est.) commodities: fuels and minerals 24% machinery and transport equipment 25% food and agricultural goods 7.6% chemicals 12.5% other 30.9% (1996) partners: Germany 17.1% Italy 15.6% Russia 12.6% France 5.0% US 3.8% Egypt 3.8% (1996) Debt—external: $10 billion (1997 est.) Economic aid: recipient: $NA Currency: 1 leu nou (RON) = 100 bani Exchange rates: lei (L) per US$1 - 33,000 (2003); 8,293.40 (January 1998); 7,167.94 (1997); 3,084.22 (1996); 2,033.28 (1995); 1,655.09 (1994); 760.05 (1993) - The currency will be re-valued by 2005 by removing the last 4 zeros from the Lei, changing the 1,000,000 Lei bill to 100 Hard Lei. RON per US$1- 2,6 (January 2007) Fiscal year: calendar year ___________Day Trips Edit This Sinaia Palace Sinaia Palace From the rugged nature of the Carpathian Mountains to the Beaches of the Black Sea, Romania offers a wealth of sites for all to see her beauty. Transylvania has some of the most untouched medieval towns in all of Europe and is home to the legend of Dracula- see Sighisoara. See the Northern province of Moldovia and be amazed by the majestic frescos in the monasteries covering the country-side. For fishing and adventure, there is a great spot called the Delta of Danube, one of the biggest natural reservations in the area. For parties and concerts in the summertime- the Black Sea's beaches- Vama Veche, Navodari, Mamaia etc. Romania is a must see for anyone wishing to escape the mass tourism that Western European countries have become engulfed in, and we want to provide you with that opportunity; with our unique and personal services. If it is an educating sightseeing vacation you are looking for or a wilderness adventure we have it all. Maybe you prefer to relax on the sandy beaches on a stress free vacation. Don't miss out on this opportunity of a lifetime... Contributors July 24, 2008 change by psychoralu (1 point) August 14, 2006 change by romaniatours [Add Day Trip] Tour of Sinaia and Bran from Bucharest Edit This Sinaia Palace Sinaia Palace This overnight excursion from Bucharest is perfect to get out of the city, and return to ancient Romania. Departing from Bucharest, you will first go to the world famous Peles Palace in Sinaia. Built by King Carol of Romania, this palace is beyond belief in its detail and scenery. After touring the palace, we will stop for lunch at a wonderful restaurant in Sinaia. We will also tour the Orthodox Monastery in Sinaia. From Sinaia, we will head to Poiana Brasov, which is a famous resort on the outskirts of Brasov, in the heart of more.. World66 rating: [rate it] tel: +40 748 70 05 12 url: www.goromaniatours.com address: Strada Latina 3, Brasov, Romania email: tours@goromaniatours.com __________People Edit This Population: 22 395 848 (July 1998 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 2 169 581; female 2 078 515) 15-64 years: 68% (male 7 571 619; female 7 668 689) 65 years and over: 13% (male 1 213 406; female 1 694 038) (July 1998 est.) Population growth rate: -0.32% (1998 est.) Birth rate: 9.33 births/1 000 population (1998 est.) Death rate: 11.62 deaths/1 000 population (1998 est.) Net migration rate: -0.88 migrant(s)/1 000 population (1998 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female (1998 est.) Infant mortality rate: 18.83 deaths/1 000 live births (1998 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.47 years male: 66.67 years female: 74.47 years (1998 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.17 children born/woman (1998 est.) Nationality: noun: Romanian(s) adjective: Romanian Ethnic groups: Romanian 89.1% Hungarian 8.9% German 0.4% Ukrainian Serb Croat Russian Turk and Gypsy 1.6% Religions: Romanian Orthodox 70% Roman Catholic 6% (of which 3% are Uniate) Protestant 6% unaffiliated 18% Languages: Romanian Hungarian German Literacy: definition: age 7 and over can read and write total population: 97% male: 98% female: 95% (1992 est.) ____________Festivals Edit This Folk Art - Easter Eggs Folk Art - Easter Eggs Romania Tours Easter in Romania Orthodox Easter is a celebration in Romania; a religious holiday as well as a symbol of spring. At midnight, Romanians gather at churches big and small across the country as Holy Saturday becomes Easter, lighting candles during the Service that they then carry home to bless their families for the upcoming year. In cities and towns, this custom produces a fantastic view of candles held aloft on the streets as churchgoers head home in the early morning hours. In 2008 the Romanian Orthodox Easter Sunday is on 27 April. Hand-coloring eggs with intricate designs and religious motifs, using wax-based paints, remains a popular Easter tradition in certain countryside regions across Romania. In the past, only natural colors and plant pigments were used: red onion to obtain the color red, apple tree bark for yellow, mint for green, etc. In the late 19th century chemical colors started to be preferred due to increased efficiency. [Add Local transport mode] Private Driver and Personal Guide in Romania Edit This The best and most comfortable way to exeprience this beautiful country is in the company of an experienced driver/guide. A local driver/guide can help take the pressure away from a stress full trip if you were to travel on your own. And the added bonus of having local tours in each location will make your trip that much more enjoyable. Your accomadation, transportation and meals can be organized for you in advance with you own tailor made customized tour. Their knowledge of Romania makes it that much more worth it. Start planning your trip now and discover this intriguing part of more.. World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.goromaniatours.com address: Brasov, Romania email: tours@goromaniatours.com By Road Edit This Transfagarasan Highway Romania Transfagarasan Highway Romania When driving in Romania a driver's license (foreign licenses are accepted) and vehicle insurance is required. If you have not purchased insurance in advance it is available at most border crossings. Driving is on the right and overtaking on the left. Driving in the cities can be challenging as they can be heavily congested with aggressive drivers. However driving through the country side can be quite a treat with breath-taking scenery with many opportunities to stop and take a picture. A car or private driver is suggested to reach the Painted more.. World66 rating: [rate it] url: www.goromaniatours.com email: tours@goromaniatours.com :::::::Alba iulia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see pasaj cetate pasaj cetate Alba Iulia is a city in Alba County, Transylvania, Romania with a population of 66,369, located on the Mures River. The city is historically important for both Hungarians and Romanians. :::::::::Arad Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Downtown Arad Downtown Arad TrustiX700 Arad is a city in the Western area of Romania ::::::Baia mare Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i_2 Baia Mare is the main city of the Maramures region. The area is quite mountainous, the Rodna Mountains and the Pietrosul Massif are the highest peaks in the Oriental Carpathians. Some of the mountains such as the Gutai and Jibles Mountains are of volcanic origin. Maramures is an ideal area for people who like the outdoor and Baia Mare is a good starting point for exploring the region. Maramures is an ancient Dacian region, rich in gold, uranium and other minerals, located in the north-west of Romania about 500 kms from Bucuresti :::::::Bistrita Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Biserica Evanghelica Bistrita Biserica Evanghelica Bistrita Anonim If you happen to follow Dracula’s route through Romania (or trace at least the places that are mentioned in the novel), Bistrita is a place not to be missed. This is the area that Bram Stoker chose as the setting of Dracula’s castle. The capital of the Northern Bistrita-Nãsãud County has several well preserved medieval buildings, an Orthodox church dating from the 13th century and a county Museum. (And don’t trust anyone that keeps staring at your throat and asks you to give blood for the good cause.) :::::::Black Sea Coast Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see eforie_sud eforie_sud kitty Blessed with an unpolluted sea, golden sands, and warm weather from spring to autumn, Romania's Black Sea coast would long ago have rivaled the Mediterranean for popularity, had political conditions been different. The beaches are there; the modern hotels and facilities are there; a wealth of inland attractions, from castles to vineyards, are there; all that has been lacking is recognition. Now, with the country heading towards a new, strong future, the Black Sea is destined to become a major European holiday destination. Altogether, Romania's Black Sea coast extends for 245 kilometers (153 miles) from the fascinatingly unspoiled nature reserves of the Danube Delta down to the leisure activities of numerous holidays centers. The two areas could hardly be more different. Whereas the Delta is strictly protected from intrusion, the southern 70km (44 miles) have been developed into a string of beach resorts and health spas catering to all ages and interests, from small children to grandparents; all served by the tourist and transport amenities of the city of Constanta. Furthermore, the Black Sea is free of strong tides, so swimming is unusually safe. Most important place on the Black Sea Coast is Constanta which profits of the boost in tourism and has an amazing variety of things to offer for the tourist. The major resort next to Constanta is called Mamaia. Down to the south lies the little charming village of Mangalia with special health resorts from Communist times. _______Statiunea Saturn Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Saturn is a romanian black sea resort situated near the town of Mangalia. It is the first resort out of 5 near Mangalia. It is a clean and peaceful resort with white sand beaches and good hotels. ::::::::Botosani Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see old hotels old hotels Botosani, city in northeastern Romania, capital of Botosani County. The city lies in a rich farming area of the northern Moldavia region and has long been known as a market center for agricultural produce and wines. More recently it has become an industrial center, particularly for textiles. Tourist attractions include the Popauti Church (1496), built by Stephen the Great, a Moldavian national hero; and a local museum with paintings by Romanian artist Octavian Bancila, who was born in Botosani. South of the city are a number of monasteries built in the Middle Ages, including Cosula and Vorona. Botosani was first documented as a settlement in 1439. Population (1997 estimate) 129,285. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: None ::::::::::::Braila Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Braila is an industrial port city on the Danube river in Muntenia, eastern Romania. The current population is approximately 217,000. Founded in the 14th century, it went through a long period in the late Middle Ages as a Turkish kaza before becoming one of the newly unified Romanian state's most important ports in the 19th century. Heavily redeveloped in the 1980s under Ceausescu's systematization policy (similar to many Romanian cities), much of its historic architectural stock has disappeared. A compact core of 19th-century buildings can be found around the picturesque Piata Traian and several of the streets radiating outwards from it. Lying in a rather economically depressed corner of the country off the main transport routes, Braila sees few tourists. Only some 30 kilometers from Galati and sitting to the west of Tulcea, the city is occasionally visited as a backdoor in or out of the Danube Delta. The granting of European funds for civic restoration in early 2006 could lead to a change in the city's fortunes. ::::::Bran Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i The little homestead of Vlad Tepes', also known as Dracula, Bran Castle, is one of the top attractions in Transsylvania and easily reached from Brasov. Although there are no historic sources linking the famous count with the sharp teeth to the castle, popular belief and travel writers have it that this is the place. Whatever you think, it definately is a pretty nice castle and a must see if you are around. The building of Bran Castle started somewhere around the year 1378. The constructors somehow succeeded in combining wood with the rock brought from Magura Branului. The castle had a protective and commercial purpose. While the centuries passed by changes have been made to the castle. Many of the changes and reparations have been made by the prince Gabriel Bethlen. He added another rectangular tower, a square tower with two floors and the actual gate. The old observatory tower, dated 1622, shows the Romanian architectural style. During 1920-1930 other changes have been made. The fire holes turned into windows, the well into the elevator's room and the stoves into fireplaces. There have been added towers to the stairs and it was built in wood the fourth floor. :::::::::::Brasov Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Black Church Black Church Mircea G. Brasov is a charming town located in the geographical centre or Romania. Before the great Tartar invasion of 1241 Brasoc had already developed into a city. The earliest documentary data testify to the existence of Brasov in 1234, under the name of "Corona". During the feudal period, the nucleus of the town - the Citadel - was the centre of the handicraft and cultural administrative activities. In the 15th and 16th centuries the aspect of Brasov must have been very much like that of any medieval town in the centre of Europe. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the aspect of the town began to resemble the one it has today, the buildings bearing the stamp of the Baroque or of the Viennese Rococo. Brasov has always been an important cultural centre. It is in Scheii Brasov that the first school with tuition in Romanian was founded in 1495, and it was here too that Deacon Coresi printed the first book written in Romanian (the 16th century). Contemporary Brasov, with a population of about 400,000 is a busy industrial, shopping, tourist and cultural centre. The geographic position and natural beauty, the great variety of the scenery and its contrasting aspects, the numberless historic and architectonic monuments make Brasov one of Romania's main urban centres. A centrepiece in Brasov is the Black Church which is pictured above. there is an extensive collection of antique rugs on display throughout the church, along with numerous icons it is an essential visiting point. Brasov serves as an access hub for the local ski field named Poiana-Brasov. it has easy access by taxi or even by bus (train from Bucharest). Dollar for dollar you won't get better value skiing. The lift system is somewhat antiquated but this adds to the charm of the experience. There is a cafe half way down the mountain called the Cabina Postavarul which has a beautiful rustic feel about it, this adds to the flavour of the Ciorbas (soups) which are served as a welcome respite on the side of the mountain. ::::::::::Bucharest Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_1 The 500-year-old city of Bucharest , with a population of 2,100,000, was once touted as the "Small Paris". Bucharest today, like any big capital, is a bustling modern metropolis full of life and diversity. Touting a rich and full history, Bucharest offers attractive opportunities to enjoy and explore. Much of Bucharest ’s past can be seen along Calea Victoriei and Piata Victoriei and the streets leading from them. Some of the points of interest on Calea Victoriei are The National Museum of History, The Romanian Athenaeum and The Royal Palace known also as The National Art Museum, George Enescu Palace and The Museum of Art Collections. Among the attractions is Parliament Palace listed in the Guinness Book of World Records, under “Administrative Buildings” as the second largest building in the world after the Pentagon. In point of volume of the building, the Romanian Parliament Palace ranks third in the world. Ranking first is a Cape Canaveral rocket-assembly building and ranking second is Quetzacoatl’s pyramid in Cholula, Mexico. At the demand of Ceausescu, the president and dictator of Romania between 1967-1989, work on Parliament Palace, initially named The House of The People, began on June 25 1984 on a land that had previously held one of the oldest and loveliest of the city’s neighborhood. Though the whole structure is the result of a tremendous national effort being designed and built entirely by Romanian specialists. After December 1989, the Palace became headquarters of several working commissions of the Romanian Parliament. Of special interest for the Romanian ethnography is Village Museum. Located on the bank of the Lake Herastrau in Bucharest , the museum is a result of Profesor Dimitrie Gusti’s research on rural regions. The Village Museum was opened in 1936 the same year as the one from Skansen (Stockholm). Both museums are the first open-air ethnographic museums in the world. Impressive by their simplicity of forms and colors many of the churches from Bucharest are an original expression of the Romanian architectural style. Some of the most valuable and old are Church of St.Gheorghe on Magheru, Cretulescu Church on Calea Victoriei, Antim Monastery (1715) close to The Arch of Triumph, Patriachat Chruch (1665) on the Mitropoliei Hill in Unirii Square and many others. Another point of interest is The Old Princely Court Museum, the ruins of a palace built in the 1500s by Vlad Tepes a.k.a. Count Dracula. Nearby stands the oldest church in Bucharest , Church Saint Anton, which unfortunately rebuilt many times does not keep too much of its old look. In case the noisy and crowded streets of the center get you down, be sure to visit the Cismigiu Gardens (1860), an old and historical park located downtown or Herastrau Park, located just a couple of metro stops from the city center. In Bucharest there is broad range of cultural events at fairly low prices. "Sapte Seri" magazine, a free magazine available on brochure stands, details Bucharest 's restaurants and entertainment, including information about cultural events going on in the capital. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: aliraza_rafaqat@hotmail.com ::::::::::Bucovina Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bucovina is a region of monasteries in northern Romania, unique in the world for their colorful exterior frescoes. Equally well worth the visit are the villages, still leading the traditional way of life, and the stunning landscapes. Life in the rural environment is simple and complex at the same time: people still follow strict rules of behaviour and maintain ancient traditions, but modern life brings conflicting values even to the remotest villages. ::::::Bucovina Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bucovina is a region of monasteries in northern Romania, unique in the world for their colorful exterior frescoes. Equally well worth the visit are the villages, still leading the traditional way of life, and the stunning landscapes. Life in the rural environment is simple and complex at the same time: people still follow strict rules of behaviour and maintain ancient traditions, but modern life brings conflicting values even to the remotest villages. ::::::::::Cavnic Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo A beautiful place. Ideal for wintersports in winter and trips in summer. Beautiful views. ::::::::Ceptura Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_1 Very nice village, aged 3000 years. Mostly old & kind people living there. Ceptura is an ancient Dac word (cetora) meaning a lower place between mountains. Others say the name "ceptura" comes from "cep" - another Dac word related to barrels of wine, the village having a very long tradition in producing wines. Now, the industry is growing (including wine industry of course), because of a romanian law, saying that Ceptura is a defavirised village, and giving the industriants lots of privileges for having a business there. Regarding the industry, there are factoryes and workshops in the domains: food (meat products, olives), cigarettes, wrought iron products, PVC , clothing, electrical products, and others. __________Nightlife and Entertainment Edit This There is no such thing as "Night life in the village". There are only 2 entertaining places, a disco and a nice pub. All the fun is saturday night, when there is a lot of people coming from near villages, going to the nice disco. We don't really have to give directions, because you can't miss it. ::::::::: Cluj Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Cluj Centre Cluj Centre Howard Huntington (UK) The unofficial capital of Transylvania, the 2000 years old Cluj-Napoca (during the Roman occupation it was called Napoca) is one of the most vibrant cities in Romania. With a population of around 400000 people out of which around 70000 college students, the city is bursting with energy year round. Located in a hilly area, the city spreads itself around the Somes river towards the surrounding hills. The architecture in the downtown is reminiscent of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire, while elements of modernism have now been added to give the city a modern, exciting feel. There are lots of museums, parks and a European renowned Botanical Garden that are sure to appeal even to the most demanding visitor. Not to mention the countless cafes, restaurants, clubs and discos where one can have a great time at any time of day or night. As a side-note, Cluj-Napoca is one of the only cities (if not THE only) in the world that has 2 National Opera Houses in two different languages (Romanian and Hungarian). This city's personality comes from its multiculturality and diversity. ::::::::Constanta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Fantana arteziana Fantana arteziana Filip Lucian Constanta is located on the Black Sea coast in Romania. In ancient times it was called "Tomis", and the city was settled in the 6th century BC by Greek merchants as a sea port. It was later developed by Romans and renamed after the emperor Constantin. It was here that the poet Ovid was exiled by emperor Octavian Augustus in A.D.8 until his death in A.D.17. The city was attacked and destroyed by Avars in the 7th century AD and was not redeveloped until the 19th century, when King Carol I decided to turn it into an active seaport and seaside resort. Constanta is now a cultural and economic center in Romania, with a population of 350,000. Its historical monuments, ancient ruins, grand Casino, museums and shops, make it the focal point of Black Sea coast tourism. The rest of the southern coast consists of Romania's abundant seaside resorts and many of its health spas. Activities include tennis, water-skiing, paragliding, scuba diving, and horseback-riding. Open-air restaurants, discos and cabarets offer a wide variety of entertainments. Accommodations range from numerous hotels, villas and bungalows, to campsites. ______Getting There Edit This DACIA DENTAL CLINIC new dental clinic with an excellent location, in centre of Constantza, so is easy to find, and is near town’s attraction and Mamaia resort. We provide comprehensive dental care for all ages and all dental needs. We offer a full range of services, including thorough routine and preventive care, advanced cosmetic procedures, quality restorative and prosthodontic dentistry, implantology. We are open 6 days a week, Monday through Saturday, with office hours from early in the morning into the late evening. Emergencies are promptly cared for. Constantza, 308 Tomis, Bl. LT3, sc. F, ap. 61 Phone: +40241 695 564, +40341 409 058, +40788 690 882, +40722 620 446 e-mail: dacia_dental_clinic@yahoo.com web: www.daciadentalclinic.ro :::::::::Curtea de Arges Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Curtea de Arges Festival August 2008 Curtea de Arges Festival August 2008 Gabriela Berchetaru One of the oldest cities in Romania, Curtea de Arges (in translation: The Court of Arges) used to be the capital of Wallachia (we, Romanians, call this region Muntenia, as there are many mountains here). Another name for Wallachia is Vechiul Regat- The Old Kingdom, as its history indicates it as one of the first regions where royal dinasties set foot. It is part of Arges County, situated next to Pitesti, on the bank of river Arges. Arges is a river of Southern Romania, which rises from the Fagaras Mountains, in the Carpathians and flows into the Danube.It was known in antiquity as Argessos, Ardeiscus or Ordessus river. Curtea de Arges is situated in a valley of the Fagaras Mountains, highest part of the Romanian Carpathians and it is also near to Transfagarasan Highway. The Fagaras Mountains are a very popular hiking, trekking and skiing destination in Romania. Population: 32.500(2004) In the town, you can visit the History Museum,which hosts some of the oldest artefacts in the history of the place, from antiquity to the First World War. Even if the employees are not very enthusiastic in explaining things, you may still enjoy some chapters of local history. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: Raluca Ionescu ::::::::::Danube Delta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Biosphere Reservation of the Danube Delta The Biosphere Reservation of the Danube Delta In 1990 UNESCO declared this region as international natural patrimony under the name of “The Biosphere Reservation of the Danube Delta”. The waters of the Danube River, which flow into the Black Sea, form the largest and best preserved of Europe's deltas. Playing host to over 300 species of birds from as far away as China and India that come here every year for the migrations. As well as 45 freshwater fish species in its numerous lakes and marshes, it is truly a paradise for bird watchers and fishermen alike. Other attributes including an exotic landscape with over 1,200 species of trees and plants, and such mammals as Wolf, Fox, Wild Boar, Otter, Raccoon Dog and Wild Cat. The main town is Tulcea and is the gateway to start your journey to other villages and areas of the fascinating region. The means of travel is by boat through the many channels or a fully equipped SUV and is the best way to explore the delta. :::::::::::Deva Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The modern city and the medieval citadel, Deva/Diemrich/Schlossberg. The modern city and the medieval citadel, Deva/Diemrich/Schlossberg. MRBodea DEVA (de:va:) [45.9° N and 22.9° E] is a city situated on the left bank of the middle course of the MURES, (mu:resh) river, (mentioned by Herodotus c 484 BC as the Maris river, by Strabo as Marisos and by Iordanes as Marisia), and lies between the Western Transylvanian Alps ( Munt,ii Apuseni) and the Poiana Ruscãi Mountains at a height of 187 m above sea level. Traces of neolithic Iron Age occupation have been found together with evidence of Dacian (Thracian) and Roman civilisation. DEVA known as Diemrich or Schlossburg in German and Déva in Hungarian appears on mediaeval maps as DEUA or DEWAN. Nowadays, DEVA is the county capital (Hunedoara county) with more than 70,000 inhabitants (est. 2002) with mining-processing (20%), food and agriculture (18%), civil engineering and building materials (12%) and power industries (6%). DEVA is at crossroads linking the Western Romania via DN7 (E15) towards Arad (W) and Sebes (Centre) and also North-South on E79 towards Brad and Oradea (NW) and towards Petrosani-Craiova-Calafat (S). The main railway 200 Bucharest-Deva-Arad-Curtici to Hungary goes through DEVA. Documentary evidence of the town's existence first appeared in 1269 AD . It became a Residential Town under a Duke (Voevode = Romanian Duke) in 1307 and later under the Voevode John Huniady (Iancu de Hunedoara, Ioannus Corvinus, Janos Huniady) became an important military and administrative centre. Partially destroyed by the Turks in 1550, was rebuilt and the fortress extended. In 1621 Count Gabriel Bethlen transformed and extended the Magna Curia Palace also known as the Bethlen Castle in the Renaissance style. Since 1882 it has housed the County Museum and houses one of the most important archaeological collections in Transylvania, with rich numismatic, ethnographic and natural science exhibits. DEVA is dominated by Citadel Hill (371 m =1,217 ft), a truncated volcanic plug, with stunning views of the Mures valley. Citadel Hill is a protected nature reserve thanks to its rare floral species and the horned adder ( Vipera Ammodytes ). Perched on the top of the hill are the ruins of the Citadel (Cetatea Devei) built in XIII c at the time of the Mongol invasions, on earlier Roman foundations. Under the protection given by the fortress, the city grew in the following centuries. An important military and administrative centre it has played a significant part in Transylvanian history. In 1849, just before the Central European Revolution defeat, after the general Bem retreat and occupation, the fortress was blown apart by a powerful blast in the storehouse filled with explosives. Since then, the ruins are silent and now a historical monument. Accessed by foot, on winding alleys up to the top of the hill the ruins can be visited and also a rewarding panorama of the surrounding valley delights the visitors. Another important historic monument is the Franciscan Monastery (also known as the Bulgarian Monastery) built in the XVII c. Several important sites are situated around DEVA, the Bejan Forest natural reserve, unique in Europe for its variety of rare species of oak tree and flowering plants. The Simeria Arboretum, 6 miles from Deva, on the banks of Mures river has over 70 hectares of woodland and grassland, 250 years old, with rare species of trees and flowering plants from China, Japan and North America, together with some rare local species. Another important landmark is Mintia (the ancient municipium and castrum Micia ), a Roman port on the Mures river, now with an archeological open site, rich in artifacts and also a coal-fired power station. DEVA has one 3-star hotel (Vila Venus, Decebal Hotel) , two 3-star B&Bs (Paradis and Venus), two 2-star hotels (Deva and Sarmis) and two Motels (Beno Oil and Oil Glat Exim). With close-by access to the Apuseni Mountains (Western Transylvanian Alps) to the North, to the Retezat Mountains and National Park (to the South), to areas of outstanding natural beauty and with traditional crafts such as Tara Zarandului, Tara Hatzegului, Tinutul Padurenilor, the Hunedoara Medieval Castle, the Dacian fortresses, DEVA is expecting its visitors to discover this enchanted SW Transylvanian area at the cross-roads of historical Principality of Transylvania and the Banat province. ::::::::::::: Galati Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Located in the eastern part of Romania, the city is based on the siderurgic industry. The Sidex factory is employing 10% of the working population of the city. With more then 300.000 people, the Galati city is the 4th biggest city (population wise) in Romania. Dunarea De Jos University of Galati is an important university center. :::::::::::Gheorghe Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Gheorghe Hagi, Maradona of the Carpathians, the best Romanian footballer and one of the best players in the world in the 80's and 90's. He is a true symbol of Romania abroad and a reason for national pride. Be sure to mention his name to a Romanian to get all his love... :::::::Hunedoara Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Pub Retro Pub Retro Radu Barsan Hunedoara, city, Hunedoara judet (county), west-central Romania, in the eastern foothills of the iron-ore-bearing Poiana Ruscãi Mountains, 185 miles (300 km) northwest of Bucharest. The ore deposits at nearby Ghelari and Teliuc were known in Roman times. The first major development of the iron- and steelworks did not take place until 1884. After World War II, their expansion and modernization included blast furnaces, open-hearth furnaces, electric ore furnaces, coking and chemical works, a sintering plant, rolling mills, and related facilities. The city has become a major metallurgical production centre. Hunedoara Castle (Castelul Hunedoara) one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Central and Eastern Europe, was built sometimes before 1409 and later extended by John Huniady (1387-1456, Iancu de Hunedoara, Ioannus Corvinus, Huniady János), Prince (Voevode) of Transylvania and by his son, King Matthew Corvinus (Matei Corvin, Mathhias Rex, 1443-1490) in the XV century and by Count Gabriel Bethlen (Gabriel Bethlen Von Iktár, 1580-1629) in XVII century. The castle, beautifully preserved, was built in a gothic style with baroque and renaissance influences. The interior of the castle has halls with arms and artifacts and sometimes special presentations and "son et lumière" shows are organised here. The castle is situated in Hunedoara (Eisenmarkt, Vajdahunyad), by the Zlas,ti river, in the Cerna valley and guarded by the Poiana Ruscãi Mountains. Mentioned since XII century as a hub for leather tanning , wool processing and clothing industry, Hunedoara became one of the main iron extraction and processing centres in Transylvania. Iron ores were extracted in the area since Dacian and later, in Roman times. During the XIV and XV centuries the iron foundries and works were famous for their swords and spears. The first tall industrial furnace for iron extraction was built in Toplit,a in 1750, and a later one in Govãjdia in 1806. Narrow gauge railways and suspended transporters for coal and extracted iron ore were built in the XVIII and XIX century and the Iron Works extended further. Around Hunedoara and into the mountains there is a famous area known as Tara Pãdurenilor or the Woodlanders Country, with breathtaking scenery and beautifully preserved costumes and folklore. :::::::::Iasi Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see "Al.ICuza" University (19th c.) "Al.ICuza" University (19th c.) cciobanu by www.iasicity.ro Iasi, the capital of Moldova (the province), is nicknamed the cultural capital of Romania. One of its highlights is the splendid neo-gothic Palace of Culture. It will take you more than a day to visit the palace, not in the least because it houses four museums (its most famous two probably being the Art Museum and the Moldovian History Museum). The city boasts the oldest public university of Romania and still is a incredibly popular student town. The older part of the former capital of Moldova is very inviting with its many museums and churches, such as the 'Saint Nicholas' which is the first church with the unique external walls painted style, applied latter on the famous Bukovina monasteries or 'Trei Ierarhi' dating from the 17th century with its carved-stone facade - Iasi has seven monasteries inside its city limit. Many 19th century style buildings still shape the city flavor, one of them being 'Traian' Hotel designed by Gustave Eiffel. Many museums, old fashion parks and surprisingly an incredible number of statues posted at almost every corner. :::::::::::Mamaia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Mamaia beach Mamaia beach S. Roug The major resort near Constanta is Mamaia, situated just to the north between a magnificent 7 km (4.5 mile) long beach of unbelievably fine sand and a lake. It is especially designed for families with children. Sports like snorkeling, scuba-diving and paragliding offer thrills from May to October. Restaurants bars and nightclubs enliven the evenings. Expeditions to typical country villages, the ruins of the ancient Greek fortress of Histria, and the Danube Delta are easily arranged. :::::::::Mangalia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Old Lighthouse The Old Lighthouse Nadia Gazaru The 6th century BC fortified town of Callatis has become today's balneary spa of Mangalia, with a special cure hotel. Here, as at Eforie Nord, Eforie Sud and the spa at Neptun, a wide variety of therapeuric treatments are available, including mineral-rich mud baths, thalassotherapy and the world famous Romanian Gerovital cure. Medical staff are highly quialified and clinics and consulting rooms remain open year-round. So you can combine professional treatment with all the pleasures of a seaside sojourn. And, of course, you can enjoy a wide variety of gipsy tribes, you can experience on yourselves the good feelings that only a good bribe (to police officers, hotel receptionists and so on...) can give... you should feel safe here as long as you have a guide you can trust. :::::::Medias Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Casa Schuller Casa Schuller www.lightplay.ca Medias (German: Mediasch, Hungarian: Medgyes) is a town in Romania. It is located in the heart of Transylvania, on the valley of Târnava Mare river in the Sibiu County. It has one of the best preserved historical centers in Romania and also some well preserved medieval fortifications. The city lies in the middle of the area which was inhabited by Transylvanian Saxons and in an area of 20 km around it there are a few dosens of fortified churches, two of them UNESCO World heritage sites. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medias ::::::::Miercurea Ciuc Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Szeklerburg Szeklerburg Koen Jansen Miercurea Ciuc (Csikszereda in Hungarian)is a small city in the Szekely land, known throughout Romania for 2 things: the beer (simply called Ciuc) and the year-round low temperatures. Its more than 90% Hungarian and is slowly taking over from Tirgu Mures (Marosvasarhely) as the regional cultural center for the Szeklers. The city is not known for its beautiful townscape largely thanks to mr. Ceaucescu´s heavy-handed refurbishments of the city center, so there´s lots of 60´s to 80´s concrete, but here and there you can find some nice turn of the century streets and buildings and there are some nice new or renovated places to eat or drink around town. There´s also a Hungarian-language university and therefore some studentlife as well. All in all a nice place to break your journey when travelling though the Szekely Land and a good place to stock up before hiking up the Harghita forests. :::::::::::Oradea Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x The beautiful baroque bishopric palace of Oradea. Today it houses the region's museum. The palace was built as a copy of the Belvedere palace in Vienna by the same architect, in the 1700s. MRBodea Oradea, located on the northwestern part of Rumania, is the main gate to Western Europa. One of the oldest remnants is the old Fortress of Ordea, the 'Cetatea Oradiei'. It was built in the 12th century, destroyed, and rebuilt in Italian style during the 16th century in order to secure Ordea's growing commercial importance. As soon as the Austrian army entered the town, the cultural character of the town changed dramatically. Churches, cathedrals and cultural institutions appeared as never before and the town's population and provisions increased rapidly. Nowadays, Oradeo is one of Rumania's biggest towns, not only in the commercial but also in the cultural and academic field. Nearly one third of its population is from Hungarian descent. Baroque-buffs can't miss out on the 'Church with the Moon', the Cathedral and the 'Sirul Canonicilor' (a building built for clerks), all outstanding examples of Baroque architecture. The Tarii Crisurilor museum is located in the Baroque Palace, a replica of the Belvedere Palace of Vienna and the Central Library shows a melting-pot of architectural styles. Baile Felix Spa is located at an eight kilometres' distance and offers excellent opportunities for geothermal treatments and all that goes with it to make your stay an even more pleasant one. :::::::::Piatra neamt Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Clock Tower, The Clock Tower, EB Piatra Neamt is the capital of the Neamt region in northeast Romania south of Bukovina. Piatra Neamt lies in the Bistrita River Valley, surrounded by mountains - Pietricica (590 m), Cozla (679 m), Cernegura (852 m), Bâtca Doamnei (462 m) and Cârloman (617 m), at an average height of 345 m, situated at 46°56" northern latitude and 26°22" eastern longitude, the town has all the advantages offered by a kind and unique nature. The Neamt county is known as the region with most monasteries per square kilometer in the world. It boasts a rich and varied landscape, with elements of great beauty, and lots of cultural and historical vestiges. The local people are renowned for their hospitality. The Moldavian art style, of great originality and stylistic unity, was developed by blending Gothic elements with the Byzantine structure specific to the churches. Among such constructions, the monumental church of the Neamt Monastery served, for more than a century, as a model for Moldavian churches and monasteries. In town the main attractions are the Princely Court, Stefan cel Mare's Church, the Clock Tower, Museum of Art, Museum of Ethnography, Museum of Natural Sciences, "Calistrat Hogas" Memorial Museum, the "Schimbarea la Fata" Wooden Church in Valeni, Cozla Hermitage, the Wooden Synagogue, and the Elena Cuza House. Soccer team is Ceahlaul P. Neamt ::::::::::::Pitesti Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_3 Nico Pitesti is a city in southern Romania, situated on the bank of the Arges river. It has about 300.000 people. It's 100 km from Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Its name comes from a verb that in romanian means "to hide", because it's "hidden" between hills. City webportal: GhidPitesti.ro It is also called "Tulip's town" because there are all kinds of tulips planted and they all blossom in spring. The city's municipality organizes every year "The Tulip's Simphony" , an event were the beauty of flowers is completed by music. People all over the country come here to admire them. A good oportunity for 3 days of party. Next to Pitesti is a city very appreciated for its fine wine, Stefanesti. At about 30 km from Pitesti you can visit one of the most old cities in Romania, Curtea de Arges. It is famous for its Monastery, one of the greatest European values and also a place were legend is at its home. It is said that a woman was built up in the walls of the monastary, because only that way the monastery wouldn't fall down. If you want you can visit Vidraru Barrage, built on Arges river, in Fagaras Mountains. It is one of the most imortant in the country, and many cities depend on it, but it also offers great views . Stately mountains, shy water falls and green trees, almost all year long. Transfagarasanul is the highest road in Romania and it reaches almost 2000 m above the sea level. It connects Muntenia and Transilvania, two historic parts of Romania.At its top you can find Lake Balea, a glaciar lake formes thousands of years ago. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: ruxandra :::::::::Ploiesti Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Parcul din fata Casei sindicatelor Parcul din fata Casei sindicatelor robert georgian Ploiesti is one of the oldest city in Romania. Centuries ago used to be a focal point of mediaval marketing for all the travelers going north thru the Carpathian Mountains. It is located equally distant between the capital Bucharest and the largest Carpathian mountain passes that connect South Romania to North Romania(Transilvania). Nowadays the city is mostly known for its oil infrastracture that supported our beloved Allies during World War I . It isn't an extremely active town anymore it's aging due to the lack of investment interests. It has always been a industrial town dwindling down during the Cold War reaching a plateau during the 1990's. It has great potential for development because of the unexploited investment prospect on a large scale. The city is over 700K people strong, and mostly blue collar. There is just too much to describe the city you have to pass thru it and see it. ::::::: Poiana Brasov Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Poiana Brasov Ski Resort in Romania Poiana Brasov Ski Resort in Romania Poiana Brasov, founded in 1895 as a touristic resort for ski and nature lovers. Located just 12 Km from Brasov (180 kms from Bucharest), this international ski resort is a perfect winter destination for those seeking an inexpensive winter holiday. The Winter International Olympic Games for Universities was hosted here in 1951. There are numerous ski slopes ranging in all difficulty levels from beginners to advanced including slalom runs, downhill and an Olympic run. In the centre of the resort you will find the Ski School that provides excellent training lessons with English and German speaking instructors. The mountains are also ideal for advanced skiers and snow boarders with some challenging runs, such as the Wolf run that is almost 3 kms long. The town boasts elegant hotels, classy restaurants, indoor swimming pools, and treatment facilities. It is reminiscent of ski resorts in France and Switzerland alike. While in Poiana Brasov a dinning experience at Coliba Haiducilor Restaurant (The Outlaws Hut) is a must, considered one of the best restaurants in Romania. It has been serving traditional Romanian food for over 40 years. Poiana Brasov is also a great location for summer adventure holidays. It offers numerous well marked trails and paths for hiking trips to see the rugged nature of the Carpathian Mountains. Excursions can also be arranged to the near-by tourist attractions such as to the historic city of Brasov, the Citadel of Rasnov, and Bran Castle. ____Day Trips Edit This Take a break from the city and head to the ski slopes of Poiana Brasov. Based in the Transylvanian Alps of the Carpathian mountains this is a perfect location to take to the hills. We offer 4 to 7 nights packages with ski lift passes and Bucharest airport transfers included. Accommodation is based on the charming 4 star hotel House of Dracula (Acasa La Dracula). We can also offer a 3 star hotel option, inquire for details. While enjoying the slopes you can take a break from skiing and discover the area with a privately guided excursion. Here are a few tour add-ons you might consider... Bran Castle and the peasant fortress in Rasnov Excursion to Sighisoara, a unique medieval citadel and the birthplace of Dracula Sibiu, "European Capital of Culture" in 2007 Church fortresses in Transylvania: Harman and Prejmer This tour package is customizable and maybe adjusted to fit your needs. _______Things to do Edit This Poiana Brasov was founded in 1895 as a touristic ski resort. Located only 12km from the medieval city of Brasov, about a 25 minute drive. The Winter International Olympic Games for Universities was hosted here in 1951. There are numerous ski slopes ranging in all difficulty levels from beginners to advanced including slalom runs, downhill and an Olympic run. In the centre of the resort you will find the Ski School that provides excellent training lessons with English and German speaking instructors. The mountains are also ideal for advanced skiers and snow boarders with some challenging runs, such as the Wolf run that is almost 3 kms long. The town is abundant of classy hotels and traditional restaurants. ::::::::::Predeal Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Predeal sky night Predeal sky night Predeal Mountain Resort is situated in Transylvania-Romania, 25 km from Brasov, 147km (100miles) from Bucharest. The resort altitude is 1033 m, being Romania's highest town. Nestled between Bucegi Mountains, Predeal is a good base for mountain trails hike and, in winter, for skiing down the Clabucet and Cioplea slopes. Famous chalets are: Trei brazi - elevation 1,128 m, Clabucet Sosire - 1,050 m, Clabucet Plecare - 1,450 m, Garbova - 1,350 m, Piatra Mare - 1,630 m, Susai - 1,350 m, Poiana Secuilor - 1,070 m, etc. All-season holiday resort of national importance, Predeal has summer average temperature 16°C and winter average temperature 1°C. The snow blanket lasts from late November to early March. The clean air, rich in ozone and the relatively low pressure are the main cure factors recommended in the treatment of astheric neurosis, weakly conditions, physical and intellectual overexertion, certain endocrine disorders. The various ski runs (Clabucet - lighted at night, Teleschi, Cioplea, a.o.) have chiar-lift and skilift. Predeal has low price ski schools having highly qualified ski trainers speaking english, german, french. :::::::::Sapinta Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see the cemetery the cemetery Sapinta, commune in NW extremity of Romania (Maramures county), situated on the river Tisa, in W Maramures depression, at the foot of the Ignis Mountains (Eastern Carpathians), elevation 500 m, 95 km NE of the municipality of Satu Mare (seat of Satu Mare county), on the border with the Ukraine; population 3,520 (July 1, 1991). Spa known for its springs of bicarbonated, clorided, sodic, calcic, carbonated, isotonic mineral waters which are bottled here and marketed in the trade network as therapeutic mineral water. Given the high content of bicarbonic ions, the Sapanta mineral waters are recommended for internal cures in the treatment of hyperacid chronic gastritis (after the carbon dioxide has been eliminated from the water by stirring with a glass baton of by winnowing), gastroduodenal ulcers, chronic cholecystitis and chronic colitis, food allergies, simple forms of diabetes mellitus. The commune has an original, one-of-its-kind cemetery (The Merry Cemetery) which was craftsman Stan Patras's idea in 1935. The croses carved and coloured by Stan Patras and his apprentices represent in caricature the good aspects and especially the imperfections of the deceased. The commune of Sapanta is also famous for its cottage industry turning out beautiful traditional woolen blankets, men's folk hats and folk costumes. ::::::::::Sibiu Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see still working on the glamourous face to come 2007 still working on the glamourous face to come 2007 KIERANN Sibiu is a city in southern Transylvania with a rich medieval and Baroque heritage. Sibiu is an important city in the history of Transylvania. Founded by Saxons in 1191, it was plundered by the Tatars in 1241, and then rebuilt with great vigour and fortified. Walls, watchtowers and big gates were built so that in the future the city would be capable of defending itself from such attacks. Historians from the 15th century attest Sibiu as the most important and powerful citadel of Transylvania, surrounded by strong walls and abutments including 5 bastions and 39 towers. It worked: in 1432, 1437, 1438 and 1442 the citadel was unsuccessfully attacked by the Turks under the leadership of Murad II. During the 18th century Viennese baroque left a big stamp on the city. Most of today's sights date either from the late middle ages when many bastions and towers were built for the defense or from the baroque period when palaces and merchant houses sprang up in the old centre. The main medieval sights of Sibiu include: the 13th century Stairway Tower, the 14th century Town Hall Tower and the Town Hall itself, the 16th century Haller Bastion and the 15th century Evangelical Church. The Brukenthal Palace is a good example of the Viennese baroque style. The Orthodox Cathedral, in Byzantine style, and the Astra Palace are good examples of 19-20th century Romanian architecture. ::::::::::::Sighet Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i The 40 ooo inhabitants town, situated on Ukrainian border, in Northern Transylvania, has a couple of good atractions: The Memorial of the Victims of Comunism and of the Resistance -the former prison of the Departament, built in 1897, today museum of European signifiance, under the aegis of the Council of Europe. The Village Museum of Maramures - open air museum, with over 30 wooden houses dated in XVII-XIX centuries. Wooden church (XVI century) brought here from Oncesti village. The Piarist Monastery -built in 1730, today The Archaeological, History and Natural Science Museum. The Calvinistic Church -the oldest building in town (XIV century), former roman-catholic church, mix of gothic and new gothic styles. The Roman-Catholic Church „Saint Carol Boromeu”- barocco style, built between 1730-1806: sun clock above the entrance, Armenian altar, barocco paintings and statues, stained glass windows. The Ukrainian Orthodox Church „Elevation of the Holy Cross ”-built between 1791-1807, many saints relics. The Synagogue -built between 1900-1904, mauric-renascentist style, the only synagogue (belonging to the former 14.000 jews community) which survived in town. The Elie Wiesel House -today The Jewish Culture and Civilisation Museum, the place where was born the laureate of the 1986 Nobel Prize for Peace. The Jewish Cemetery and The Soap Monument -here are the graves of the Hasidic movement founders (the Rabbies of Teitelbaum dinasty). The Soap Monument contains two boxes filled with soap made by jews gassed at Auschwitz camp. Livestock Market -on Tractorului street, very colourful, takes place on the first Monday of the month. Central Market -where the merchants sell vegetables, fruits, dairy products, handicrafts etc. The Steam Engine -Henschel&Sohn type, constructed in 1943, registred in the National Treasure (on Garii street). The Historical Bridge -replacing an older one, it was built by wood between 1999-2005. It’s 200 m length makes the connection with Solotvino-Ukraine. Reduta Palace -built in XIX century as military casino, it hosted the first cinema in town (1914), today the Ethnographically Museum of Maramures, and „Mara” Cinema. Groedl Villa -built in 1887 for the Groedl von Marmorosch Baron, today The Center of Recovery and Rehabilitation for the Disabled. The Cemetery of the Poor -here are burried in anonimous graves about 50 dignitaries (Iuliu Maniu, Gh.I.Bratianu, bishops, academicians, ministers, journalists) who were killed inside the Sighet jail, during 1950’s. You can find accomodation at several hotels and motels: Coroana, Nova, Casa Iurca de Calinesti, Perla Sigheteana, Siesta, Buti, Pensiunea Doina and so on. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me at teofilivanciuc@yahoo.com ::::::::::::Sighisoara Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see One of the quaint alleys of the fortified medieval town. On the right is the house where Vlad Dracul the Impaler is said to have spent a few years of his childhood. The atmosphere is tranquil. One of the quaint alleys of the fortified medieval town. On the right is the house where Vlad Dracul the Impaler is said to have spent a few years of his childhood. The atmosphere is tranquil. MRBodea Located in the center of Romania, the medieval town of Sighisoara is best known for the fact that it is the place of birth of Vlad Tepes, aka Count Dracula. There are plans to build a huge amusement park around the idea of Dracula near the town. The town is worth a visit for other and better reasons though. The medieval citadel is the main sights. Walking up from the city center of Sighisoara, one enters the citadel through the 60-meter-tall clock tower, which dates from the 14th century. Be sure to visit the Clock tower too. It houses a museum and the clock still works with wooden figures truning round. From the gallery at the top of the tower you have a good overview of the town. The house of Vlad is just opposite the clock tower. It has been turned into a restaurant. Walking uphill form here, along narrow streets lined with beautiful old houses, you'll come to a covered staircase. This leads to a 14th-century Gothic church and a German cemetery. ::::::::::::Sinaia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Sinaian Mountain Dog Sinaian Mountain Dog Juan Eggers Nestled in the valley of the western Bucegi mountains about an hour north of Bucharest , Sinaia is home to the fabulous Peles Castle, a fairy-tale-like ediface built by King Carol 1 in the 19th century as the royal family's summer residence. Its interiors are an opulant display of elegant design and historical artifact. An absolute must-see, inside and out! Sinaia is set in the beautiful Prahova Valley, at the foothills of the Bucegi mountains is Romania's most popular ski area with three other major resorts: Sinaia, Busteni , Predeal and Poiana Brasov . It's also a favorite place to hike. __________Sights Edit This Peles Castle Peles Castle Bryan Wright Contributors November 07, 2004 change by mgardon [Add Sight] Peles Castle Edit This Peles Castle Peles Castle photo by: Bryan Wright Peles Castle is located on the West side of Sinaia, and was the summer residence of Romanian roaylaty in the latter part of the 19th century. Tours are offered in English, Romanian, German, Spanish, French and Russian. type: Castles World66 rating: [rate it] Peles Castle Edit This Peles Castle is located on the West side of Sinaia, and was the summer residence of Romanian roaylaty in the latter part of the 19th century. Tours are offered in English, Romanian, German, Spanish, French and Russian. type: Castles World66 rating: [rate it] __________Getting There Edit This Sinaia Train Station Sinaia Train Station Bryan Wright Sinaia, located two hours from the Capital, Bucharest, is accessible by rail, car, bus, or air. Contributors December 21, 2006 change by the rev [Add Global transport mode] Sinaia by Air Edit This Bucharest's aiport, Henri Coanda International connects Sinaia, Bucharest and the rest of Romania to the world, with daily flights to all major points in Europe. Sinaia can be reached from Bucharest by taxi, bus or rail. type: By Air World66 rating: [rate it] Sinaia by Rail Edit This Sinaia Train Station Sinaia Train Station photo by: Bryan Wright Sinaia's small trian station links the alpine village to the rest of Europe. The station, one of the nicest in Romania, was formally a stop of the famed Orient Express. type: By Rail World66 rating: [rate it] :::::::::Snagov lake Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Snagov lake is situated 25-30 Km from the capital Bucharest. The lake is very beautiful and plays host to a lot of species of animals... Along the lake there are few turistic places like hotel-restaurant with beach..like : VILA 23 , COMPLEX ASTORIA , MUNTENIA , and others.... Near by is the Snagov Forest ...so beautiful.... There is also an old resort, built for the communist elite that overlooks the lake, where you can stay either in tents or in chalets. On an island in the centre of the lake is an old church which is said to contain the headless corpse of Vlad Tepes. One word of warning, if you are intending to camp here then the facilities are quite basic, and the mosquito's are very aggressive _________Izvorani Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see a Quit authentic romanian village, very popular for internal and international turism, the romanian olimpic camp is located in snagov and very famous movies compny. alot of greate resturants and motels. :::::::::::Suceava Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Suceava was the capital of MOLDOVA in the late Middle Ages. Today it is a pleasant city and worth a visit for its sights and museums, especially the Princely Fortress. A possible tourist route comprises the Princely Fortress of Suceava, the Sf. Ioan Monastery in Zamca as well as the medieval churches of Saint Dumitru, Holy Ressurection and Mirui. A point of interest is also the National Museum of Bucovina with its valuable historic and archaeologic exhibits. But above all Suceava is interesting as it is an excellent starting point for tours to the mountains around. In the region around Suceava the most interesting sights are probably the painted monasteries. The Voronet Monastery dates from 1488 and is on the UNESCO list. Other monasteries are close by: Humor (1530), Moldovita (1532), Sucevita (1584), the Dragomirna Monastery ( 1609) and the Putna Monastery (1469) built by great Voivode Stefan cel Mare. Other monasteries of a great historic value are situated in the Stânisoara area: Slatina, Râsca and Pobota Monasteries. Other interseting towns include: Câmpulung Moldovenesc, the so called Helvetian pearl of Bucovina founded by ruler Alexandru cel Bun, and the municipality of Radauti, well known for its fair. ::::::::Targoviste Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Targoviste-Chindia Tower Targoviste-Chindia Tower www.earomania.com Targoviste was the capital of Valchia from the XIII to XVII century. It's main attractions are the Voievod court with the Chindia Tower and the Dealu Monastery. For more details about this romanian city visit http://www.targoviste.ro ::::::::Timisoara Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Detail from Roses Park Detail from Roses Park Raluca Ionescu Timisoara is considered one of the most important cities in the Western part of Romania. Timisoara is the capital of the Timis County, a county bordering Serbia and Hungary Timisoara is a very pleasant city and a good place to stop for some time. Its architecture resembles with that seen in Vienna, the capital of Austria. The city is full of parks and gardens. Sights include the Union Square, Liberty Square and Victory Square. River Bega crosses the city and there are many bridges across it. The history of Timisoara is beginning to be unrevealed by new archaeological discoveries: remains of the old fortress are nowadays added to those already existing. Timisoara used to be a star-shaped fortress with ten corners, surrounded by a water canal and a deserted area of almost 1 km (to discourage enemies' attacks). Timisoara is mainly famous for the 1989 revolution when Romanians got rid of their dictator Ceaushescu. It all started in the city and you can see in the city some memorials to the victims. Some of the buildings, especially those in the centre, still keep the tracks of the Revolution, like bullets in their walls. The city Center, especially the Victory Square has a lot of interesting buildings: the Metropolitan Church, the Opera. The Theater of Timisoara is the only one in the countru that houses three theaters: the Romanian, the German and the Hungarian one. This is one of the indicators of the inter ethnical tolerance of this city. Union Square is a bohemian destination prefered by high-school teenagers located nearby, students and tourists who want to enjoy the view of old buildings, feed the pigeons or even hear the bells of the Catholic Dome. In summer there are a lot of terraces where people can have a nice chat and a cocktail. The old and the new combine in Timisoara. Modern life is one of the main concerns of the local administration. Timisoara is proud of its alignment to informational technology- on the local administration's website people can see webcasts of the formal meetings, can chat with the council's members and make proposals and comments on the forum. There are areas where anyone carrying a notebook can use the free wireless connection. Union Square and Traian Square are only two of these. Tourists can go shopping to Iulius Mall, where they have a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants and also a swimming pool. Numerous festivals, especially art and youth festivals, have brought Timisoara's old title back to life: "Timisoara, the small Vienna". Another main attraction is represented by football matches taking place in Timisoara. Its representative football team, Poli Timisoara, is supported by thousands of enthusiastic fans who fill the "Dan Paltinisan" Stadium by day and by night. The representative colours of the football team are white and violet, colours that can be seen not only on the team's flag but also on the new buses of Timisoara. The name Poli it's an abbreviation for Politehnica, which is one of the educational institution with technique profile that has a long tradition in Timisoara. Another high-studies institution is the Western University of Timisoara and there are also a few other universities. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: lavy_elena@yahoo.com ::::::::::::: Tirgu mures Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x Kulturpalota Edmond Tg-Mures - a Romanian city known as Marosvásárhely in Hungarian, is situated in the heart of Transylvania in picturesque surroundings. The river Mures flows through the city and its surrounding hills are covered in ash and oak forests. Romanians and Hungarians both make up the population of some 160,000 inhabitants. It is the cultural and industrial centre of the region and also this judicial and administrative seat. Documents show that the history of the city goes back more than six centuries. Traces of commercial activity carried out by the Romans have been found outside the city, at Cristesti. Although its architecture does not reflect that of a typical medieval town, it has many fine old buildings of interest. The oldest building is the Protestant church which was built in the 15th century by voivode Hunyadi János (Iancu de Hunedoara), who was also known for his participation in the Last Crusade. The church has the characteristic features of the Gothic style and is situated in the town's fortress. The fortress itself, with its towers and brick walls, is the only one of its kind to have remained intact. The cultural history of the town boasts of many important personalities. Today the cultural activity is reflected in both the Romanian and Hungarian theatre performed at the National Theatre , the Philharmonic Orchestra, the History Museum, (which includes a Natural Science section), the public libraries and art galleries. Among its academic institutions there are the three universities: "Petru Maior" University, the University of Medicine and Pharmacy and the Academy of Dramatic Art. There is also a Social and Humanities Research Institute within the Romanian Academy. The town is well served by communications and can be reached by road, rail and air. The airport caters for both national and international flights. The architecture of Tg-Mures The fortress church is one of the oldest buildings in the city. The fortress is a wall with 7 bastions and was built by the town's craftsmen. Within the fortress there is the Reformed Church which was built in 1492 in the Gothic style. There are also some old buildings from the 16th - 18th centuries; among them the Teleki Library and the Royal Table should be mentioned. During the last three - four centuries, many churches were built in the town. The architectural style used to built these churches in the cities and villages of Transylvania reflect the variety of Christian beliefs: Roman Catholic,Evangelist, Protestant, Orthodox, Greek -Catholic. The Jewish religion was also celebrated in the local synagogue. The wooden church where orthodox believers worship, is situated in an uphill cemetery of the town and is a significant monument. It was erected in 1793 and painted in 1814, being unique in Transylvanian urbane scenery. Present-day Tg. Mures owes much to some of its mayors, like Tamás Borsos, György Bernády and Emil Dandea. During Bernády's time, at the beginning of the 20th century, beautiful buildings were built: the present-day Prefecture, The Hall of Culture, The University of Medicine, Petru Maior University and many others public buildings. The Electrical, gas and drainage systems were introduced and the streets were paved. This process of modernisation continued between the two World Wars by Mayor Emil Dandea. Thanks to him, the two cathedrals (Orthodox and Greek - Catholic) and the present-day City Hall were built. The ancient provincial city has developed into a modern city. The Hall of Culture hovses a famous Hall of Mirrors. Its stained glass windows, showing scenes from the Székelyes' ballads, are considered as reflecting local culture. Personalities, culture and science The Teleki Library is undoubtedly an example of priceless cultural heritage . It was founded in 1802 by count Sámuel Teleki, chancellor of Transylvania. He was not only a rich man, but also a well - educated man, who attended several European Universities. He used a great deal of his fortune on buying more than 40,000 books, which he used to set up a Public Library, which is named after him. Most of the books are ancient and rare and include scientific papers and manuscripts. Among those who also lived and worked in Tg. Mures, are: György Aranka, who founded the Society of Language and Culture in 1793. (Erdélyi Magyar Nyelvmivelõ Társaság), Petru Maior, an outstanding personality of Enlightenment in Central Europe, Alexandru Papiu Ilarian, the author of the Romanians' History in High Dacia and Avram Iancu, leader of the 1848 Revolution in Transylvania. If reference to schools is made, the Protestant College, today's Bolyai Farkas high school, which was set up in 1557, is the oldest. This secondary school was a University College between 1714 and 1889. Two mathematicians, Farkas and János Bolyai (father and son) figure highly in the world of science. Farkas Bolyai (1775 - 1856) was a teacher of Mathematics at the local Protestant College from 1802 till his death. He is also the author of "Tentamen", which had been first printed in the school's own press. The appendix of this work was done by János Bolyai (1802 - 1860) who also, together with Lobacevsky and Gauss, was the first to develop the principles of non -Euclidean geometry. Petru Maior University of Tg -Mures is housed in a beautiful building which was built in 1906. It began as a Commercial High School and Girls' High School, but changed to university status in 1960 when the institute of Pedagogy was established. ::::::::::::Transylvania Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Pietrosu Peak UNESCO Natural Reserve, over Borsa town, Maramures Pietrosu Peak UNESCO Natural Reserve, over Borsa town, Maramures Teofil Ivanciuc Transylvania is known as the Switzerland of the Carpathians. It is often considered a mysterious, secluded land. This stands for those who never tried to know it. The uniqueness of this land is the result of many cultures living side by side, interacting, enduring hard times during the centuries. Hungarians/Seklers, Saxons from Karinthia, protestants from Salzkammergut, Romanians, Armenians, Jewish/Jiddish, French all had great influence and great sons who became world famous. The architecture is true mirror of all influences. Transylvania was the very first place on the earth where freedom of religion was declared and legalized. Here the Unitarian Church was born. Famous mathematicians: Bolyai Janos (as a teenager set himself to resolve the 2000 year old geometry problem, also reserched by his father, the Euclid's fifth parallel postulate. He had recognized the impossibility of this task so he developed absolute geometry that is independent of the fifth postulate and also hyperbolic geometry where this postulate is negated. He was 21 years old when he reported to his father :"I have discovered things so wonderful that I was astounded... out of nothing I have created a new different world."). Another famous mathematician was Valyi (the theory of the propeller which led to developing a theory of partial differential equations, his thesis was published at Kolozsvár in 1880). The Far East and the Middle East meets West here. Brasov is the last true Western European city, if traveling East. Many say this is where Europe ends. This is not accurate from a geographical standpoint, but points to the great differences you'll find as soon as you travel south accross the Carpathian Mountains. ::::::::::Turda Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Turda - Statuia Lupa Capitolina cu Remus si Romulus Turda - Statuia Lupa Capitolina cu Remus si Romulus Radu Cerghizan Few cities in the world have the pride to tell that they are a mother for a religion, and one of them is Turda - the Unitarianism was born here. This city has a history of over 2000 years. The ruins of a roman military camp, ?The V.th Macedonian Legion? can still be seen today on a hilltop. It is famous, also, for its salt mine (Salina Turda), whose origins date back to the Roman times. It is a magnificent salt mine, which is worth visit it. Sometimes concerts are held insie the mine. The constant temperature is 10 ° C. If you decide to visit Turda, you can also visit Turda Gorges, Tureni Gorges or Turda Zoo. Those atractions were the reason for wich Turda was placed no 7 in Top 10 cities in Romania where is best to live. Turzii Gorges situated 15 km from the city is a complex natural reservation, which contains botanical, geological, zoological, archaeological values and amazing sceneries. Rare butterflies, different bird species (including the rare cliff eagle) and other animals live between the walls of the gorge. Interesting archaeological discoveries were made in the caves of the gorge: tools, bowls, ornaments and primitive burial sites were found. :::::::::::Vatra dornei Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see in centrul dornei in centrul dornei vizel beri Vatra Dornei is a well known ski resort in the north of Romania. Besides skiing you can visit the monasteries nearby: The resort has 2 ski slopes, one is the longest in Romania (3 Km) - Partia Telescaun, and one has 800 m in length - Partia Dealu Negru. The town has two major hollidays - Serbarile Zapezii (December 23 - March 11), and the Popular Traditions Festival -- Festivalul de datini si obiceiuri populare (29-31 december). The Humor monastery is one of the renowned churches with exterior frescoes, built in 1530. Voronet is the most valuable painted church of Bucovina. It is called the "Sixtine Chapel of the East" and it has an unusual freshness due to the famous "Blue of Voronet" . Moldovita - one of the gems of the old moldavian art, built in 1532, remarkable for its valuable exterior frescoes. Sucevita monastery was built between 1582-1584 and is also covered with frescoes. Putna is a legendary and very beautiful monastery, built by Stephan the Great, between 1466-1469. The tomb of the sanctified ruler is in this monastery. One may also see here an important museum of medieval art. And nearby, just down the road from the Putna monastery there is an ancient wooden church that should not be missed. It's within the graveyard that you pass. Hiking is easy and likeable, even if you choose not to follow the trail.

Grazie a www.imondonauti.it

Itinerario 1 Alla scoperta dei monasteri della Bucovina in 3 gg. Testo e foto di Flavia Daneo Punto di partenza e arrivo: Suceava Lunghezza: 366 km circa Durata: 3 gg. Mezzo di trasporto: Automobile Difficoltà: nessuna Prezzo: 250-300 euro La Bucovina è una regione situata nel nord della Romania (Moldavia) il cui nome, risalente al 1774, significa "paese coperto da foreste di faggi". Famosa per i suoi bellissimi paesaggi, la Bucovina lo ancor più per i suoi monasteri affrescati costruiti nei secc. XV-XVI sotto i principi moldavi Stefano il Grande e suo figlio Petru Rares. Attualmente i monasteri della Bucovina sono posti sotto la protezione dell'Unesco come patrimonio dell'umanità. Primo giorno: Suceava - Dragormina - Patrauti - Arbore - Radauti (60 km circa) Chiesa dela Santa Croce a Patrauti Chiesa dela Santa Croce a Patrauti Da Suceava, percorrendo il bul. Ipatescu in direzione nord, si imbocca la DN 29A-E 85, direzione Siret per arrivare in breve (km 12) al monastero femminile di Dragomirna la cui alta chiesa si può considerare il prototipo delle chiese moldave. Splendida la cupola e interessante l'iconostasi del sec. XVII. (Si può pernottare al monastero al costo di circa 300.000 lei per la doppia; il monastero è aperto in estate dalle 8 alle 21 nei giorni festivi, dalle 9 alle 21 nei giorni feriali; l’ingresso costa 40.000 lei). Proseguendo lungo la medesima strada, a 5 km dal bivio si imbocca la strada per Patrauti che si raggiunge dopo 18 km. Il villaggio di Patrauti è famoso per la chiesa della S. Croce che conserva un ciclo di preziosi affreschi che segna il passaggio dai modelli bizantini a quelli più tipici della pittura moldava con personaggi ed elementi tratti dalla realtà storica coeva (la chiesa è aperta solo durante le funzioni ma potete chiedere le chiavi al gentile sacrestano che vi farà anche da guida). Si prosegue per Arbore ( km 16; deviazione sulla sinistra 2 K) dove si trova una delle cinque chiese della Bucovina che conserva i muri esterni affrescati. Costruita tra il 2 di aprile e il 29 agosto 1503 da Luca Arbore, generale di Stefano il Grande, è famosa per i suoi affreschi sia interni che esterni che sono caratterizzati da colori intensi e luminosi tra cui spicca un bel colore verde usato in ben cinque tonalità (l’ingresso costa 50.000 lei a persona). Si ripercorre in senso contrario la breve deviazione per immettersi nella 2 H (km 7) che porta a Radauti dove si può pernottare (Azur Hotel, Calea Cernauti 29, tel. 30-464718). A Radauti, posta ai piedi dei Carpazi orientali, si può visitare la chiesa di Sfintul Nicolae, la più antica della zona, e l’interessante Museo etnografico. Secondo giorno: Putna - Sucevita - Moldovita (120 km circa) Affreschi della chiesa di Arbore Affreschi della chiesa di Arbore Da Radauti si imbocca verso nord-ovest la strada secondaria DN 17 A che conduce al monastero di Putna (km 22), il più venerato dei monasteri moldavi, la cui chiesa conserva la tomba del voivoda Stefano il Grande. Eretto tra il 1466 e il 1469, il monastero deve la sua esistenza alla tradizione che voleva che i principi regnanti dovessero costruire monasteri, chiese e fortezze dopo la loro ascesa al trono. Sembra che la chiesa fosse inizialmente dipinta ma, sfortunatamente, non si è conservato alcun affresco (ingresso gratuito, se si vuol fotografare 60.000 lei). Poco lontano dal monastero, su una collina, c’è una curiosa roccia scavata con una porta e una finestra, che si ritiene sia il luogo dove visse Daniele l’eremita. Si ripercorre in senso contrario la strada dell’andata per reimmettersi nella DN 17 A (direzione sud-ovest); dopo 37 km si giunge in vista di una graziosa vallata verde dove sorge il monastero di Sucevita (entrata 60.000 lei se si vuole fotografare), il più grande dei monasteri dipinti della Bucovina, cinto da poderose mura con torri di guardia ai quattro angoli. Tra gli splendidi affreschi della chiesa, tutti molto ben conservati, primeggia quello con la rappresentazione della Scala delle Virtù. Il carattere narrativo dei dipinti, con scene tratte dalla vita moldava del XVI sec., viene esaltato dai colori, rosso porpora e blu contro il verde smeraldo del fondo. Si riprende la DN 17 A per arrivare a Vatra Moldovitei e, deviando a destra,al monastero di Moldovita (36 km circa; entrata 20.000 lei). Come quello di Sucevita, il monastero di Moldovita ha l’aspetto di una fortezza essendo circondato da alte mura e da imponenti torri. L’affresco più interessante è l’Assedio di Costantinopoli sulla facciata sud, che ricorda i combattimenti dei romeni contro gli invasori turchi. Nell’antico refettorio è ospitato il Museo che conserva il bellissimo trono di Petru Rares. Si può pernottare poco oltre (50 km circa) a Campulung Moldovenesc (Dersicom Hotel, Calea Bucovinei 141 A oppure Zimbrul Hotel, Calea Bucovinei 1-3, tel.30-312441) oppure vicino a Sucevita (Popas Turistic Bucovina, tel. 30-465389, 94600123, doppia circa 30 USD). Terzo giorno: Campulung Moldovenesc - Voronet - Humor (125 km circa) Monastero di Voronet Il monastero di Voronet Si ripercorre la DN 17 A in senso opposto e si prosegue verso est per imboccare poco dopo l'abitato di Vama la DN 17-E 571: si giunge così, dopo una breve deviazione, alla chiesa dello scomparso monastero di Voronet (km 60; 40.000 lei, 60.000 lei se si vuole fotografare) detta “la Cappella Sistina d’Oriente” in quanto i suoi affreschi rappresentano uno dei vertici dell’arte