Romania is a country located in southeastern Europe, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is bordered by Ukraine to the north, Moldova to the northeast, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, and Bulgaria to the south. The capital of Romania is Bucharest, which is also the largest city in the country. Romania is home to a diverse population, with ethnic Romanians making up the majority, and significant populations of Hungarians, Roma, and Germans. The country has a long and complex history, with influences from the Roman Empire, Ottoman Empire, and Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, Romania is a member of the European Union and has a developing economy, with industries ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to technology and tourism. Tourists flock to Romania to explore its picturesque countryside, visit its historic castles and fortresses, and experience its unique traditions and cultural festivals.
Originally published in Romanian in 1933, this semiautobiographical novel by the world renowned scholar Mircea Eliade details the passionate awakenings of Alain, an ambitious young French engineer flush with colonial pride and prejudice and full of a European fascination with the mysterious subcontinent.
The novel presents the life of the main male character, the way he develops, how he thinks and last but not least…how he loves. Used to seducing his mistresses, having them and then leaving them, just for the sake of the feeling of grandeur, arrogance, which he feels when they beg for his reconciliation, he receives his punishment through the love of his life, Mihaela.
Bacovia represents the highest point of Romanian symbolism, being at the same time, in terms of value, above symbolism and any literary trend, in universality. The influence on the poetry of the 20th century remains an unwritten page of our literary history. It is extraordinary, but it implies a paradox: the poet with the deepest echo on modern Romanian poetry is, isolated in his strange beauty, inimitable.
Set in the early 20th century, this classic Romanian novel tells the story of a young boy growing up in the countryside. The protagonist, who is known for his skill with a hatchet, experiences a series of trials and tribulations as he navigates the challenges of rural life.
This autobiographical novel follows the life of a Romanian Jewish writer as he comes of age in the years leading up to World War II. The book explores themes of identity, belonging, and the challenges of living as a minority in a society that is hostile to your existence.
This critically acclaimed film, directed by Cristian Mungiu, is set in 1980s Romania and follows two college roommates who seek an illegal abortion. The movie explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of life under a repressive regime.
This dark comedy follows an elderly man as he seeks medical care in Bucharest. The film is a scathing critique of Romania’s healthcare system and bureaucracy, and is known for its unflinching realism and bleak humor.
This drama tells the story of a wealthy mother who tries to use her influence to protect her son after he is involved in a deadly car accident. The film explores themes of power, corruption, and the complex relationships between parents and children.
This minimalist drama, directed by Corneliu Porumboiu, follows a police officer as he investigates a minor drug case. The film is a subtle critique of Romania’s legal system, and is known for its slow pace and minimalist style.
This historical drama is set in 19th century Romania and follows a constable and his son as they hunt down a runaway Gypsy slave. The film explores themes of racism, violence, and the legacy of slavery in Romania. It was the first Romanian film to win the Silver Bear award at the Berlin International Film Festival.
Romanian music is diverse and rich, with influences from various cultural and historical sources. Traditional Romanian music is characterized by the use of instruments such as the cimbalom (a type of hammered dulcimer), the pan flute, and the accordion. The music often features complex rhythms and melodies, and is known for its use of vocal harmonies and distinctive style of yodeling. Romanian folk music is an important part of the country’s cultural heritage, with many traditional songs and dances still performed at festivals and celebrations throughout the country.
