Introduction to Romania & Its History
Romania is a unique European country located in the southeast of the continent. It has been inhabited by various peoples throughout its long history, and the diverse cultures that have left their mark on Romania’s culture can still be seen today. From ancient civilizations to medieval empires, Romania has seen it all!
Today, Romania is a unified country that is home to over 19 million people. Romanian is the official language, although many regional dialects can also be heard. The country is divided into regions, with Transylvania being one of the most well-known and popular. Throughout the ages, Transylvania has been a crossroads for many peoples and cultures.
However, it is often most closely associated with the myths and legends surrounding Dracula and vampires. This guide will take you on a journey through Transylvania beyond Dracula, and introduce you to the fascinating culture, history, and outdoor activities that make this region so special.
History of Transylvania
It is believed that the earliest settlers of Transylvania were nomads from Asia, who migrated to the area around 20,000 BC. Over time, the residents of Transylvania have included Celts, Romans, Goths, Huns, Slavs, and Hungarians.
In the 1300s, Transylvania came under the rule of King Louis I of Hungary and it remained part of the Hungarian Empire until World War I. In 1918 it became a part of Romania, the nation it is found in today. Through these times of change, Transylvania has largely maintained its own unique culture and heritage.
Transylvania has faced conflicts throughout its history, including the Daco-Roman Wars (1st century BC) and the Great Turkish War (1683–99). These battles further shaped the region’s landscape and inhabitants.
Pre-Dracula Days
Before Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula was published in 1897, Transylvania was a place of rich culture and historical records. The area has been home to many different peoples throughout history, from Romanians and Hungarians to Germans, Jews, and Roma. These numerous ethnic groups brought their own customs, religions, and cultural beliefs to the region.
In older days, Transylvania was known for its carpets, handmade pottery, horsemanship, and folklore. People were surrounded by mountains and forests, and enjoyed a unique combination of natural beauty and rural life. With the exception of some castle ruins, the region was mostly free of grand structures and fortification.
Music and storytelling were central to Transylvania’s culture centuries ago. Tales were passed down from generation to generation about the mythical creatures of the region, such as vampires and werewolves.
The towns of Transylvania were connected by trading routes which allowed people to travel between villages and buy wares. Carpenters, blacksmiths, weavers, and craftspeople all contributed to the traditional trades of Transylvania.
Mythical Creatures
Transylvania is famous for its mythical creatures – vampires, werewolves and other legendary creatures. These characters are linked to the region’s rich history, which dates back centuries and includes many different ethnicities.
Many of the stories surrounding these creatures were born out of folklore, and some can be traced back to the time of the Ottoman Empire. For instance, one legend tells of a young girl who is cursed to become a werewolf whenever the full moon rises.
The vampire myth is more closely associated with Transylvania since it is the setting for Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. While the novel has been sensationalised in popular culture, it is still based on the true history of the region and its people.
These mythical creatures have become part of everyday life in Transylvania and you can still find stories about them in local restaurants and bars. Whether you’re interested in vampires, werewolves or other creatures, exploring Transylvania will give you a unique insight into these myths.
The Dracula Myth
Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, Dracula, is a classic in the horror genre and has sparked an entire culture around its gothic setting and vampire lore. But why did Stoker choose Romania as the backdrop for this epic tale?
Stoker was inspired by Romanian history, which offers an intriguing mix of ancient folklore, superstitious beliefs and supernatural themes. He drew on real elements such as castles and towns to create a believable world full of dark secrets and mysterious creatures.
He was also familiar with the stories of Vlad Tepes III, otherwise known as Vlad the Impaler, who was a powerful ruler in 15th century Romania. Joining fact and fiction, Stoker incorporated Vlad’s brutal deeds into his novel, creating an uncompromisingly evil character in Count Dracula.
In the novel, Transylvania was shrouded in mystery; a place where darkness reigned and the undead roamed the night. It is this perception of the region that has led to its association with the supernatural in popular culture.
Touring Transylvania
Transylvania is a region rich with historical sites and stunning scenery. From rolling hillsides to stunning mountain peaks, the area has so much to offer those looking to explore the area beyond its mythical vampire history.
If you’re looking to explore Transylvania’s link to Bram Stoker’s novel, ‘Dracula’, then there are plenty of places to visit. Many of these sites are located in Bran Castle, located on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. Other places to visit include:
- The Poenari Castle- Thought to have been the inspiration for Castle Dracula.
- The Romanian Saxon villages- Founded by Germanic settlers, there are a number of charming villages throughout the area.
- Sighișoara- A hill top citadel famed as the birthplace of Vlad Tepes.
- Snagov Monastery- Located nearby Bucharest, this monastery is rumored to be the burial place of Vlad Tepes.
When visiting each of these sites, remember to take plenty of photos, as there will be an array of stunning views to capture.
Medieval Castles and Architecture in Transylvania
The province of Transylvania, Romania has a deep and varied history that can be seen in its architectural landscape. Transylvania is filled with fascinating medieval castles, fortresses, fortified churches, towers, and manors that evoke the tumultuous past of this region. The most iconic landmark in the region is undoubtedly the magnificent Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula’s castle.
The most interesting aspect of Transylvania’s medieval architecture is how incredibly diverse it is. There are buildings from various architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque, and Baroque. Some of these structures have been beautifully maintained while others have been left in ruins, slowly being reclaimed by nature. This diversity makes exploring the different parts of Transylvania all the more exciting.
Some of the most popular architectural sites to visit in Transylvania are:
- Bran Castle
- Alba Carolina Fortress
- Bicaz Gorges (Piatra Secuiului)
- Cetatea de Baltă
- Corvin Castle
- Făgăraș Fortress
- Biertan Fortified Church
Visiting these historical sites is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture of Transylvania and get a more intimate glimpse into its past. As you explore the different structures, don’t forget to take some time to stop and admire the views of the surrounding countryside and mountains.
Cuisine of Transylvania
Exploring the gastronomic delights of Transylvania is an essential part of any visit. The regional cuisine is incredibly diverse, thanks to the fusion of flavors of many cultures and ethnicities who have lived in the area over the centuries. For starters, you can sample some traditional dishes from Transylvania such as mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (cabbage rolls), tochitură (mixed meat stew), and papanasi (fried dumplings). Then, there’s the popular regional specialties like ciorbă (sour soup) and papanași (sweet cheese-filled dumplings).
If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try the traditional cozonac (nut bread) or taste the famous Romanian honey cake called pasca. You can also find plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in the local markets for a healthy snack. For hearty meals, check out the regional restaurants in the cities for classic dishes such as zacuscă (eggplant spread) and stuffed cabbage rolls.
Wash down all your culinary adventures with some local beers such as Stejar or URSUS. Be sure to also try some locally produced wines, such as Fetească Neagră (black maidens), which is made of black grapes native to Transylvania.
Outdoor Activities in Transylvania
Transylvania is a perfect destination for outdoor adventurers! Whether you’re into skiing down the slopes of the Retezat Mountains, or going for a leisurely stroll through the Saxon villages in the southern part of the region, there’s something for everyone. The Covasna and Harghita regions are especially known for their ski resorts and beautiful hiking trails.
The most popular sites for tourist activities include the bigar waterfall and the Apuseni mountains, which feature several caves and underground waterways for explorers to explore. Zărnești is home to Libearty Bear Sanctuary, where hikers can take in the sights of bears living in their natural habitats.
- Retezat Mountains – Skiing and snowboarding
- Saxon villages – Hiking and sightseeing
- Covasna and Harghita regions – Ski resorts and hiking trails
- Bigar Waterfall – Sightseeing and photography
- Apuseni Mountains – Caving and trekking
- Libearty Bear Sanctuary – Hiking and observing bears in their natural habitats
Transylvania hosts a number of outdoor activities for all skill levels and interests. So whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a relaxing stroll in the countryside, there’s something for everyone in Transylvania.
Urban Centres in Transylvania
Transylvania is home to some of Romania’s largest cities, each with their own unique culture and attractions. Cluj-Napoca is often considered the unofficial capital of Transylvania, where visitors can find a wealth of bars, clubs, museums, and galleries. Târgu Mureș is another popular destination with its cobblestone streets and ancient citadel. Sibiu, Brasov, and Timișoara are also major urban centres, providing plenty to explore from historic sites to modern eateries.
When visiting any city in Transylvania, it’s always worth taking the time to experience the local culture. Try a traditional Romanian restaurant or attend an event at the opera house. Most cities have a range of activities on offer, whether it be visiting a museum or shopping for souvenirs.
Shopping in Transylvania
Transylvania has something for all kinds of shoppers. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or some unusual clothing, the region has plenty to offer.
You can find a variety of traditional Romanian crafts at local markets and stores. Hand-crafted dolls, pottery, carpets, and textiles are all popular items to pick up as souvenirs. Traditional wooden artefacts, such as hand-carved spoons and bowls, also make for great gifts. If you’re looking for something more modern, handmade jewelry, glass artifacts, and paintings can all be bought locally too.
Clothing is also popular in Transylvania, with the emphasis on traditional Romanian garments. You can find embroidered dresses, blouses, vests and other items. Leather and wool garments are also popular, with coats, jackets and hats lining store shelves. Shoes, belts, and scarves complete the look.
Most stores accept cash payments, though some merchants may accept cards. Make sure to take plenty of local currency just in case.
Conclusion
Transylvania, as part of Romania, has a rich and vibrant history. From the mythical creatures associated with the area to its medieval castles and urban centres, there is plenty to explore in Transylvania. The guide has hopefully given you an insight into the region before and after the Dracula myth and its impact on the culture. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do in Transylvania from skiing to hiking trails, whilst the local cuisine of Transylvania can be enjoyed in the largest cities in the region. Finally, don’t forget to take home some of the souvenirs or clothing the region has to offer.
For those who want to know more, there are plenty of sources available to learn more about Transylvania and Romania. These include museums, travel guides, and even virtual tours that can be experienced from the comfort of your own home. For those wishing to visit the region, you can rest assured that it will not disappoint.
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