Deva: The Heart of Transylvania's History

• HelloSalut
  [sah-loot]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah reh-veh-deh-reh]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
• Thank youMultumesc
  [mool-too-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuza-ma
  [skoozah-mah]
• How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh my fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Si tu?
  [bee-neh. see too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbesti engleza?
  [vor-behs-tee eng-leh-zah?]
• I don't understandNu inteleg
  [noo een-teh-leg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAs dori sa vad meniul, va rog
  [ahs doh-ree sah vahd meh-nyool, vah rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mananc carne
  [noo mah-nahnk kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-rohk]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAs dori sa platesc, va rog
  [ahs doh-ree sah plah-tesk, vah rohg]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-yoo-tor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Suni la politie!
  [soo-ne lah po-lee-tsyeh]
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  [soo-ne lah dok-tohr]
• I'm lostM-am pierdut
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  [soont bohl-nav]

• I'd like to buy...As dori sa cumpar...
  [ahs doh-ree sah koom-pahr]
• I'm just lookingDoar ma uit
  [doh-ahr mah ooit]
• How much is it?Cat costa?
  [kaht kohs-tah?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [ehs-teh preh-ah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteti sa scadeti pretul?
  [poo-teh-tee sah skah-detee preh-tool]

• What time is it?Cata e ora?
  [kahtah eh oh-rah?]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah oon-oo]
• Half past (10)O jumatate (10)
  [oh joo-mah-tah-teh (dheh-shet)]
• MorningDimineata
  [dee-mee-neh-ah-tah]
• AfternoonDupa-amiaza
  [doo-pah ah-mee-ah-zah]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayAzi
  [ahz]
• TomorrowMaine
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• 1Unu
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• 6Sase
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• 7Sapte
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• 8Opt
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• 9Noua
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• 10Zece
  [zeh-cheh]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/o...
  [oon-deh ehs-teh oon-ool/oh]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [kah-reh ehs-teh ah-dreh-sah?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteti sa ma aratati (pe harta)?
  [poo-teh-tee sah mah ah-rah-taht (peh hahr-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cand este urmatorul (autobuz)?
  [kahnd ehs-teh oor-mah-tohr-ool (ow-toh-boo-z)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (catre ....)
  [oon bee-let (kaht-reh)]

Deva's history traces back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence indicating settlements from the Neolithic era. The region was once part of Dacia, an ancient kingdom that was later conquered by the Roman Empire. This early period laid the foundation for Deva's rich cultural heritage.

During the Middle Ages, Deva became strategically significant due to its location. The Deva Fortress, built in the 13th century atop Cetatea Hill, served as a crucial defensive structure against invasions. The fortress's ruins still stand today, offering a glimpse into the military architecture and turbulent history of the region.

In the 15th century, Deva came under the influence of the Hunyadi family, one of Transylvania's most powerful noble families. John Hunyadi, a key figure in the fight against the Ottoman Empire, used Deva as a military base. His legacy is still celebrated, and his impact on the region's history is profound.

Deva experienced significant changes during the Austro-Hungarian rule in the 18th and 19th centuries. This period saw the development of infrastructure, including roads and administrative buildings. The cultural influence of both Austria and Hungary left a lasting mark on Deva's architecture and traditions.

The 20th century brought modernization and industrial growth to Deva. After World War I, Deva became part of Romania, undergoing significant social and economic changes. The city expanded, and new institutions, including schools and hospitals, were established, shaping the modern character of Deva.

In recent decades, Deva has seen a cultural revival, emphasizing its historical and cultural heritage. Festivals, museums, and cultural events celebrate the city's diverse history. The Deva Art Museum and the annual Medieval Festival are just a few examples of how the city honors its past while embracing the present.

Deva is located in the Hunedoara County of Romania. The nearest international airport is Traian Vuia International Airport in Timișoara, which is about 150 kilometers away. From Timișoara, you can take a train or a bus to Deva. The train journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, while buses might take a bit longer. Alternatively, you can rent a car for a more flexible travel experience.

Deva is well connected by public transport. The city has a reliable network of buses that can take you to most attractions and neighborhoods. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive. For those who prefer a bit more freedom, renting a car is a convenient option. Deva's city center is quite walkable, and many of its main sights are within walking distance of each other.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Deva, so withdrawing cash should not be a problem.

Deva is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Deva has several medical facilities, including the Deva Emergency County Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites; casual wear is acceptable in most other places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; a friendly 'Bună ziua' (Good day) is a nice touch. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines; Romanian hospitality is generous, so don't refuse food or drink offerings.

To experience Deva like a local, visit the local markets such as Piața Centrală, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Romanian goods. Take a stroll up to Deva Fortress for panoramic views of the city. Engage with locals; they are often very friendly and willing to share stories about Deva's rich history and culture. Don't miss the Corvin Castle, one of the most impressive Gothic-style castles in Romania, located just a short drive away in Hunedoara.