Bartolomeu: A Quaint Haven in the Heart of Brasov

• HelloSalut
  [sah-loot]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah reh-veh-deh-reh]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
• Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tsoo-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-zahts mah]
• How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh my fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shee too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbești engleză?
  [vor-beh-shtee en-glez-ah?]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo in-tseh-leg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh vad meh-nyool, vuh rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-nuhnk kar-neh]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-rok]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh pluh-tesk, vuh rohg]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-yoo-tor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Sunați poliția!
  [soo-nuhts po-leet-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
  [soo-nuhts oon dohk-tor]
• I'm lostM-am rătăcit
  [mahm ruh-tuh-cheet]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-nahv]

• I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [ush doh-ree suh koom-pur]
• I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [do-ahr muh ooit]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kaht koh-stah?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [ehs-teh preh-ah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeți prețul?
  [poo-teh-tsee suh ska-deh-tsee preh-tsool]

• What time is it?Cât este ceasul?
  [kaht ye-steh chas-ool]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah oon-oo]
• Half past (10)Zece și jumătate
  [zeh-cheh shee zhoo-muh-tah-teh]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-neh-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-pah ah-mee-ah-zuh]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ahs-tuhz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-yeh-neh]
• 1Unu
  [oo-noo]
• 2Doi
  [doy]
• 3Trei
  [tray]
• 4Patru
  [pa-troo]
• 5Cinci
  [cheenk]
• 6Șase
  [shah-seh]
• 7Șapte
  [shahp-teh]
• 8Opt
  [opt]
• 9Nouă
  [noo-uh]
• 10Zece
  [zeh-cheh]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este...?
  [oon-deh ye-steh]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh ye-steh ah-dre-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-teh-tsee suh-mee ah-rah-tahts pee har-tuh]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [ka-nd ye-steh oor-muh-toh-rool ow-toh-booz]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (spre ....)
  [oon bee-let spre]

Bartolomeu, located to the south of Brașov's old town, has roots that trace back to the Middle Ages. It was initially settled by Saxons in the 13th century who were invited to Transylvania to develop the land and bolster defense against invasions. The area began to flourish as a rural settlement, providing agricultural products to the nearby city.

The Church of Bartolomeu, constructed in the 14th century, is one of the oldest churches in the region. It served as a significant religious center for the local community and played a vital role in the spiritual life of the Saxon settlers. The Gothic architecture of the church reflects the historical influence of the Saxons in Transylvania.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, as the threat of Ottoman invasions grew, Bartolomeu's strategic location made it crucial for defense. The local population fortified the area, building walls and watchtowers, contributing to the overall security of Brașov, which was known for its fortified structures.

The 19th century brought significant industrial development to Bartolomeu. The establishment of factories and workshops transformed the neighborhood, attracting a workforce from surrounding regions. This period marked a shift from an agrarian-based economy to one centered around industry, significantly altering the social fabric of the community.

Following World War II, Bartolomeu underwent rapid urbanization as the Communist regime promoted industrialization and collective farming. Many of the traditional homes were replaced with apartment buildings, reflecting the architectural trends of the time. The neighborhood adapted to the new economic landscape, becoming a hub for various industrial activities.

In recent decades, Bartolomeu has experienced a cultural resurgence, with efforts to preserve its historical heritage. The community is now a blend of modern living and historical significance, with cultural events celebrating its Saxon roots and a growing interest in tourism driven by Brașov’s overall appeal as a historical city.

Bartolomeu is a neighbourhood located just south of the historic centre of Brașov. To reach Bartolomeu from the city centre, you can take a local bus (lines 4 and 34) which runs frequently and takes about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service can be used for a direct and convenient option. If you are arriving from Brașov Train Station, it’s a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk to reach Bartolomeu.

Once in Bartolomeu, getting around is easy with the local bus system, which connects to other parts of Brașov. Bicycling is also a popular option, with bike lanes available on some streets. For those who prefer walking, many local attractions are accessible on foot. Taxis are readily available for longer distances or if you are in a hurry.

Bartolomeu is generally a safe neighbourhood for tourists, but it is advisable to be cautious, especially after dark. Avoid poorly lit areas and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places, so stay vigilant.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance in Romania. The local hospital and police station are easily accessible in Brașov. It's prudent to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Bartolomeu for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in churches; cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly and disabled. Don’t consume food or drinks on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept invitations for meals; don’t refuse hospitality as it may be seen as impolite.

To experience Bartolomeu like a local, consider visiting the local market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with vendors and chat with locals to learn more about the area. Take some time to explore the nearby parks and green spaces, which are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Romanian dishes at local eateries, which often offer the best home-cooked meals.