Craiova: A Journey Through Romania's Cultural Heartland

• HelloSalut
  [sa-ˈlut]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [la re.veˈde.re]
• YesDa
  [da]
• NoNu
  [nu]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [te rog]
• Thank youMultumesc
  [mul.ˈtu.mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [sku.zaʦi.ˈmə]
• How are you?Ce faci?
  [ʧe ˈfaʧi]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bi.ne ʃi tu]
• Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor.ˈbiʦi en.ɡle.zə]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [nu ˌɯn.t͡se.ˈleɡ]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [aʃ doˈri sə vad me.ˈni.ul və roɡ]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [nu mə.ˈnɨŋk ˈkar.ne]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [ˈnorok]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [aʃ doˈri sə plə.ˈtesk və roɡ]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [a.ʒuˈtor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [du.te]
• Call the Police!Sună la Poliție!
  [su.nə la po.ˈlitsje]
• Call a doctor!Sună un doctor!
  [su.nə un dokˈtor]
• I'm lostM-am rătăcit
  [mam rətə.ˈʧit]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [sunt bol.ˈnav]

• I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [aʃ doˈri sə kum.ˈpar]
• I'm just lookingDoar ma uit
  [do.ar ma uit]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kɨt kosˈtə]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [es.te pre.ə skump]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeți prețul?
  [puˈteʦ sə ˈskə.de.ʦi pret͡sul]

• What time is it?Cât e ceasul?
  [kɨt e ˈʧe̯a.sul]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [es.te o.ra unu]
• Half past (10)Jumătate (10)
  [ʒu.məˈta.te (10)]
• MorningDimineața
  [di.miˈne̯at͡sa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [du.pə a.mjaˈza]
• EveningSeara
  [se̯a.ra]
• YesterdayIeri
  [je.ri]
• TodayAstăzi
  [as.təz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [mɨ.ˈne]
• 1Unu
  [u.nu]
• 2Doi
  [doj]
• 3Trei
  [trej]
• 4Patru
  [pa.tru]
• 5Cinci
  [ʧint͡ʃ]
• 6Șase
  [ʃa.se]
• 7Șapte
  [ʃap.te]
• 8Opt
  [opt]
• 9Nouă
  [no.uə]
• 10Zece
  [ˈʦe.ʧe]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/o...
  [ˈun.de es.te u.nul/o]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [ka.re es.te a.dre.sa]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mă puteți arăta (pe hartă)?
  [mə puˈteʦi aˈrə.ta (pe harˈtə)]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kɨnd es.te urˈmə.to.rul (au.toˈbuz)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (către ....)
  [un biˈlet (kə.tre)]

Craiova's history stretches back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the area has been inhabited since the Neolithic era. The region was originally home to the Dacians, a Thracian tribe known for their warrior culture and intricate craftsmanship. The remnants of their settlements and fortifications can still be seen in and around the city, offering a glimpse into Craiova's ancient roots.

During the medieval period, Craiova emerged as an important center of commerce and military strategy. By the 15th century, it became the seat of the Ban of Oltenia, a high-ranking official in the Wallachian principality. Craiova's strategic location made it a focal point for trade routes and military campaigns, contributing to its growth and prosperity.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Craiova came under Ottoman rule, like much of the region. The city's administrators and inhabitants had to navigate the complexities of Ottoman governance, which included paying tribute and hosting Ottoman garrisons. This period saw a blend of local and Ottoman architectural styles, some of which are still visible in Craiova's historic buildings.

Craiova played a significant role in the 19th-century movement for Romanian independence. The city was a hotbed of revolutionary activity, with many residents participating in the 1821 uprising led by Tudor Vladimirescu. Craiova's contributions to the fight for independence continued throughout the century, culminating in the establishment of the Kingdom of Romania in 1881.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw Craiova undergo rapid industrialization and modernization. The construction of railways and factories transformed the city into an industrial hub. This period also saw the development of educational and cultural institutions, including the University of Craiova, founded in 1947, which has since become a major center of learning and research.

Craiova, like the rest of Romania, was deeply affected by the events of the World Wars. During World War I, the city was occupied by Central Powers forces. In World War II, Craiova faced bombings and occupation once again, this time by Axis and later Soviet forces. The post-war period brought significant political changes, with Romania falling under communist rule until the revolution of 1989, which Craiova's residents actively supported.

In recent decades, Craiova has experienced a cultural renaissance. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, including the Marin Sorescu National Theatre and the Oltenia Philharmonic Orchestra. Craiova is also famous for its historic sites, such as the Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest urban parks in Eastern Europe, and the Art Museum housed in the stunning Jean Mihail Palace.

Craiova is located in the southwestern part of Romania and is accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest airport is Craiova International Airport (CRA), which offers domestic and some international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to the city center, which is about 7 kilometers away. Alternatively, you can reach Craiova by train; the city is well-connected to major Romanian cities like Bucharest and Timisoara through the national railway network. Buses and coaches also operate regularly between Craiova and other major cities in Romania.

Craiova has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses and trams operated by RAT Craiova. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis are also widely available and relatively affordable. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at the airport and in the city. Biking is another option, with bike rental services and bike lanes available in certain parts of the city.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Craiova. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and public transport. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, and currency exchange offices are available in the city center and at the airport.

Craiova is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any urban area, it is wise to take standard precautions. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Areas like the Craiovita Noua and Romanesti neighborhoods have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuables publicly.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Craiova has several hospitals, including the County Emergency Hospital, which provides comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect religious customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and follow any posted guidelines. Public Transport: Do be considerate and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. In formal settings, use titles and last names until invited to use first names. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Craiova like a local, visit the Central Market (Piata Centrala) for fresh produce and local delicacies. Stroll through Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest urban parks in Eastern Europe. Attend a performance at the Marin Sorescu National Theatre or the Oltenia Philharmonic for a dose of local culture. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their city.