What Language Did They Speak in Romania?

If you’re interested in learning about Eastern Europe’s linguistic diversity, you may find it useful to take a closer look at the languages spoken in Romania. This country, located in southeastern Europe, has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its unique linguistic landscape. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various languages spoken in Romania and delve deeper into the history and significance of the Romanian language.

The Romanian Language

The Romanian language is the official language of Romania and Moldova. It is a Romance language, meaning that it is derived from Latin. Romanian is also one of the five official languages of the European Union. This language is spoken by approximately 24 million people worldwide, making it the 26th most widely spoken language in the world.

Romanian can be divided into four dialects. The dialects are determined by regional differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and syntax. The four dialects are:

1. Daco-Romanian
2. Aromanian
3. Megleno-Romanian
4. Istro-Romanian

Other Languages Spoken in Romania

Romania is home to a variety of languages. Some of the other languages spoken in Romania include:

Hungarian

Hungarian is the second most spoken language in Romania. More than 1.2 million people in Romania speak Hungarian, mainly in the regions of Transylvania, Maramureș, and Banat. Hungarian is a Uralic language, and it is not related to the Romance languages that are spoken in Romania. When Hungary and Romania were united in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Hungarian was the official language, and it remains an important cultural language in Romania today.

Roma

Roma is an Indo-Aryan language that is related to Hindi, Punjabi, and Bengali. It is the third most spoken language in Romania, with around 600,000 speakers. The Roma language is spoken mainly by the Roma population, who are an ethnic minority in Romania.

German

German is a Germanic language that is spoken by around 36,000 people in Romania. Most of the German speakers live in the Transylvania region. German was the official language in Romania until the end of World War II, when the Romanian government decided to declare it illegal.

Ukrainian

Ukrainian is spoken by approximately 53,000 people in Romania. Most of the Ukrainian speakers live in the northern part of the country, near the border with Ukraine. The Ukrainian language is related to Russian and Belarusian and it belongs to the Slavic language family.

The Importance of the Romanian Language

The Romanian language is an important part of Romania’s cultural heritage. It is also essential for communication with government agencies, businesses, and other institutions in the country. Studying the Romanian language can be an excellent way to learn more about Eastern Europe and gain an understanding of the region’s history and culture.

Learning Romanian can also open up new opportunities for you. Romania is one of the fastest-growing countries in Europe and has a thriving IT sector. Besides, Romania has a rich literature and filmmaking tradition, which is reflected in its language. Knowing the Romanian language could help you access Romanian literature and film and enrich your understanding of it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Romanian is the official language of Romania, and it has a rich linguistic heritage. Romania is also home to several other languages, including Hungarian, Roma, German, and Ukrainian. By learning the Romanian language, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Eastern European culture and history, open up new opportunities, and enrich your understanding of one of Europe’s most fascinating regions.

An Insider’s Guide to Brasov, Romania

If you’re planning a trip to Romania, Brasov should be one of your top destinations. Located in the heart of Transylvania, Brasov is surrounded by beautiful mountains, vibrant culture, and preserved medieval architecture. Here are five reasons why you should add Brasov to your travel itinerary, and some hidden gems to explore while you’re there.

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems

Most visitors to Brasov make a beeline for the historic center or the stunning Bran Castle, but don’t miss out on some less frequented attractions. Visit the majestic Peles Castle in Sinaia, a royal summer residence, with beautiful gardens and stunning mountain views. Another hidden gem is the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti, which is home to rescued bears that roam around in a natural habitat. If you’re a hiker, don’t miss the Seven Ladders Canyon in Piatra Mare, a stunning natural gorge that challenges hikers through seven wooden ladders.

Dining Experiences: Savor Local Cuisine

Romanian cuisine is a delightful mix of aromas and flavors, and Brasov is one of the best places to experience authentic dishes. Start with Mamaliga, a traditional polenta dish usually served with sour cream and feta cheese. Meat lovers should try Sarmale, a flavorful dish made with minced meat wrapped in cabbage rolls, rice, and some secret herbs. For dessert, try Papanasi, a succulent dessert made with sweet cheese and served with sour cream and jam. Head to the local market, Piata Astra, to savor traditional street food such as langos, a deep-fried dough topped with cheese and sour cream.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Culture

Brasov is a city with a rich cultural heritage, so there’s always something happening there. Attend the Brasov International Film Festival in September, which showcases a wide variety of Romanian and international films. From December, the town center transforms into a winter wonderland for the Christmas Markets. Don’t miss the Cerbul De Aur festival in August, a music competition that attracts pop stars from across the world. Dive into the city’s culture by visiting museums like the ASTRA National Museum Complex or the First Romanian School Museum.

Local History: Uncover Fascinating Stories

Brasov has a long and storied history, and there are plenty of fascinating tales to uncover. One notable landmark is the Black Church, which came into existence after a devastating fire that ravaged the city in 1689. Another place of interest is Schei, the historical fortified district in Brasov that was home to the first Romanian school. To understand more about the city’s history and cultural heritage, take a walking tour with a local expert guide, or visit the historic houses of Brasov.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Discover Something Unique

If you’re looking for some non-touristy experiences, consider visiting one of the local wineries such as Vulcan or Lacerta. Another unique experience is to rent a bike and explore some of the nearby villages that are less crowded and offer picturesque landscapes. Or visit the Count Dracula Club, a themed pub that pays homage to the famous vampire. If you want to pamper yourself like royalty, head to a traditional spa, Therme, that is set across 15 acres and is one of the largest wellness centers in Europe.

In conclusion, Brasov is a city that offers plenty of unique experiences that go beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, food, or adventure, there’s something for everyone. Pack your bags and head to Brasov to discover its hidden gems.