Maramures: The Heart of Traditional Romania

• HelloBună ziua
  [boo-nuh zee-wah]
• 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-zah-tsi muh]
• How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh mye fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shee too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbești engleză?
  [vor-beh-shtee ehn-gleh-zuh?]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo uhn-tseh-lehg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh vad meh-nyoohl, vuh rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-nuhnk kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-rohk]
• 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!Duceți-vă!
  [doo-chetzi-vuh]
• Call the Police!Sună la Poliție!
  [soo-nuh lah poh-lee-tsee-eh]
• Call a doctor!Sună un doctor!
  [soo-nuh oon dok-tor]
• I'm lostM-am rătăcit
  [mahm ruh-tuh-cheet]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-nav]

• I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [ush doh-ree suh koom-par]
• I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [doh-ar muh ooh-eet]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kaht kohs-tuh?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [ehs-teh preh-ah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeați prețul?
  [poo-teh-tsi suh skuh-deh-ahts prehtsool?]

• What time is it?Cât este ceasul?
  [kaht eh-steh chyah-sool]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah oon-oo]
• Half past (10)O jumătate (la zece)
  [oh joo-muh-ta-te (lah zeh-che)]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-neh-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zah]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yer]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ah-stuhz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-ee-neh]
• 1Unu
  [oo-noo]
• 2Doi
  [doy]
• 3Trei
  [treh-ee]
• 4Patru
  [pa-troo]
• 5Cinci
  [chin-chee]
• 6Șase
  [shah-seh]
• 7Șapte
  [shahp-teh]
• 8Opt
  [opt]
• 9Nouă
  [noo-wuh]
• 10Zece
  [zeh-che]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/o...
  [oon-deh eh-steh oo-noohl/oh]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [ka-reh eh-steh ah-dre-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-teh-tsi suh-mi ah-rah-ta-tsi (peh har-tuh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kund eh-steh oor-muh-toh-rool (ow-toh-booze)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (spre ...)
  [oon by-let (spreh)]

Long before the region was known as Maramures, it was inhabited by the Dacians, an ancient people whose rich culture and robust fortresses dotted the landscape. Archaeological finds, such as pottery and tools, provide a glimpse into the lives of these early settlers. The Dacians played a significant role in the early history of Romania and left a lasting legacy that can still be felt in Maramures today.

During the Middle Ages, Maramures became an important border region of the Kingdom of Hungary. The area's strategic location and natural resources attracted various populations, including Romanians, Hungarians, and Saxons, who contributed to its cultural diversity. This period was marked by the construction of wooden churches and fortified structures that are now emblematic of Maramures.

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Maramures embroiled in the broader conflicts between the Ottoman Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary. Despite frequent Ottoman incursions, the local population maintained a fierce resistance. This era is characterized by tales of heroism and the fortification of villages, as well as the development of unique architectural styles in local churches and houses.

Following the decline of Ottoman power, Maramures fell under the influence of the Habsburg Monarchy and later became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This period brought significant administrative and cultural changes, including the introduction of new agricultural techniques and the construction of impressive public buildings. The Habsburgs also promoted religious tolerance, which allowed for a flourishing of both Orthodox and Catholic traditions.

The aftermath of World War I brought significant political changes to Maramures. The 1918 Union with Romania was a pivotal moment, as the region was integrated into the Romanian state. This period saw a resurgence of Romanian cultural identity, with efforts to preserve local traditions and folklore. The union also led to economic and social reforms that reshaped the region's landscape.

During World War II, Maramures experienced occupation and significant upheaval. Following the war, the region fell under Soviet influence as part of Communist Romania. The Soviet era brought industrialization and collectivization, which had profound effects on the traditional agrarian lifestyle. However, it also led to the preservation of many cultural sites as symbols of national heritage.

The fall of Communism in 1989 marked a new chapter for Maramures. The region has since experienced a cultural and economic revival, with efforts to restore historical sites and promote tourism. Today, Maramures is celebrated for its well-preserved wooden churches, vibrant festivals, and rich folklore, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history and culture.

Maramures is located in the northern part of Romania, close to the borders with Ukraine and Hungary. The nearest international airports are Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ) and Baia Mare Airport (BAY). From Cluj-Napoca, you can take a train or bus to Baia Mare or Sighetu Marmației, which are major towns in Maramures. The journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which allows for more flexibility in exploring the region.

Within Maramures, public transportation options include buses and trains. Buses are the most common and connect major towns and villages. Trains are available but limited, mainly connecting to larger towns. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the remote villages and scenic routes at your own pace. Biking is also popular for short distances and offers a great way to enjoy the countryside.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger towns, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Baia Mare and Sighetu Marmației, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

Maramures is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded markets.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Baia Mare and Sighetu Marmației have hospitals and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly nod or slight bow is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Maramures like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Romanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Wooden Churches of Maramures, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. For a unique experience, take a ride on the Mocănița steam train through the Vaser Valley, offering breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains.