Rasnov: The Heart of Transylvanian Heritage

• HelloSalut
  [sah-loot]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah re-ve-de-re]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [te rohg]
• Thank youMultumesc
  [mool-tzu-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuza-ma
  [skoo-za mah]
• How are you?Ce faci?
  [che fahtch]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Si tu?
  [bee-neh. see too]
• Do you speak English?Vorbesti engleza?
  [vor-besht een-gleh-za]
• I don't understandNu inteleg
  [noo een-te-leg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAs dori sa vad meniul, te rog
  [as doh-ree sah vad me-nyool, te rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mananc carne
  [noo mah-nahnk kahr-ne]
• Cheers!Noroc!
  [noh-rok]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAs dori sa platesc, te rog
  [as doh-ree sah plah-tesk, te rohg]

• Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-yoo-tor]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Sunati politia!
  [soo-nahtz po-lee-tsee-ah]
• Call a doctor!Sunati un doctor!
  [soo-nahtz oon dok-tor]
• I'm lostM-am ratacit
  [mahm rah-tah-cheet]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-nav]

• I'd like to buy...As dori sa cumpar...
  [as doh-ree sah koom-par]
• I'm just lookingMa uit doar
  [mah ooit doo-ar]
• How much is it?Cat costa?
  [kaht koh-stah]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [es-teh preh-ah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Poti sa scutesti pretul?
  [pohtz sah skoo-tes-tee preh-tool]

• What time is it?Cat este ora?
  [kaht es-teh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [es-teh oh-rah oo-noo]
• Half past (10)Jumatatea (la zece)
  [zhoo-mah-tah-teh-ah (lah zeh-cheh)]
• MorningDimineata
  [dee-mee-neh-ah-tah]
• AfternoonDupa-amiaza
  [doo-pah ah-mee-ah-zah]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayAstazi
  [ah-stahz]
• TomorrowMaine
  [my-neh]
• 1Unu
  [oo-noo]
• 2Doi
  [doy]
• 3Trei
  [tray]
• 4Patru
  [paht-roo]
• 5Cinci
  [cheen-chee]
• 6Sase
  [sah-sheh]
• 7Sapte
  [sahp-teh]
• 8Opt
  [ohpt]
• 9Noua
  [noo-wah]
• 10Zece
  [zeh-cheh]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/una...?
  [oon-deh es-teh oo-noo/oo-nah]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh es-teh ah-dre-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Imi poti arata (pe harta)?
  [ee-mee pohtz ah-ra-tah (peh har-tah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cand este urmatorul (autobuz)?
  [kand es-teh oor-mah-toh-rool (ow-toh-booze)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (catre ....)
  [oon bee-let (kaht-reh)]

Râșnov, originally known as 'Rosnou', was first mentioned in historical records in 1331. The town's name is derived from the Slavic word 'žrŭnovy', meaning 'mill', indicating the area's early agricultural roots. Situated in Transylvania, Râșnov's strategic location made it an essential settlement in the region.

One of the most significant historical landmarks in Râșnov is the Râșnov Fortress, constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries. Built by Teutonic Knights, the fortress served as a refuge for the local population during invasions and conflicts. Its impressive defensive walls and strategic position atop a hill provided an almost impregnable defense against invaders, including the Tatars and the Ottoman Empire.

In the early 13th century, the Teutonic Knights were invited to Transylvania by King Andrew II of Hungary to defend the region against invasions. Their presence significantly impacted the construction and fortification of Râșnov. The Knights introduced advanced military architecture and helped establish Râșnov as a pivotal defensive outpost.

Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, Râșnov faced numerous Ottoman invasions. The fortress played a crucial role during these tumultuous times, providing sanctuary for the local population. Despite several sieges, the fortress' robust defenses and strategic location ensured that it was never successfully captured by the Ottomans.

A famous legend associated with Râșnov Fortress is the story of its well. During a prolonged siege, the inhabitants of the fortress needed a reliable water supply. Two Turkish prisoners were promised freedom if they could dig a well. After 17 years of labor, a 146-meter-deep well was completed, ensuring the fortress had a secure water source. The well remains a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the fortress's defenders.

During World War II, Râșnov and its fortress were once again thrust into the spotlight. The fortress was used as a strategic lookout point due to its elevated position. Although it did not see major battles, the area's historical significance was recognized, and efforts were made to preserve its historical structures.

Today, Râșnov is a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The fortress has been meticulously restored, offering a glimpse into the past. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals that celebrate its rich history and heritage, making Râșnov a vibrant blend of the past and present.

Rasnov is located in Brasov County, Romania. The nearest major airport is Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, approximately 160 kilometers away. From Bucharest, you can take a train or a bus to Brasov, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. From Brasov, Rasnov is just a 20-minute drive or a short bus ride away. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive directly to Rasnov, which provides flexibility to explore the surrounding areas.

Rasnov is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, taxis are available and relatively inexpensive. Public buses connect Rasnov to nearby towns like Brasov and Bran. Renting a car is also a convenient option for exploring the region, especially if you plan to visit multiple sites.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Rasnov. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Rasnov, and you can withdraw Romanian Lei using your debit or credit card.

Rasnov is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise 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 high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the European emergency number for police, fire, and medical services. Rasnov has a local police station and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town 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. When visiting churches, cover your head and shoulders. 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 and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rasnov 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 town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Rasnov Fortress, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into medieval history. For a unique experience, take a walk in the nearby Bucegi Natural Park, which offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views.