Sibiu: The Heart of Transylvanian Heritage

• HelloBună ziua
  [boo-nuh zee-wah]
• GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah reh-veh-deh-reh]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNu
  [noo]
• Please/You're welcomeTe rog/Cu plăcere
  [teh rohg/coo plah-cheh-reh]
• Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tsoo-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă/Scuze
  [skoo-zah-tsi-muh/skoo-tseh]
• How are you?Ce faci?
  [cheh fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shi too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-beetsee en-gleh-zuh?]
• 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 vud meh-nyool, 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!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Apelați Poliția!
  [ah-peh-lahts po-lee-tsiah]
• Call a doctor!Apelați un doctor!
  [ah-peh-lahts oon dohk-tor]
• I'm lostM-am pierdut
  [mahm pyehr-dooot]
• I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-nav]

• I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [ush doh-ree suh koom-puhr]
• I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [doh-ahr muh ooit]
• How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kuht kohs-tuh?]
• That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [es-teh prah skoomp]
• Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeți prețul?
  [poo-tehtsuh suh skuh-dehts preh-tsul?]

• What time is it?Cât este ora?
  [kuht ye-steh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [es-teh oh-rah oon-oo]
• Half past (10)Jumătatea (la zece)
  [joo-muh-tahteh-ah (lah zeh-che)]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-neh-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zuh]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yehr]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ah-stuhz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-yeh-neh]
• 1Unu
  [oon-oo]
• 2Doi
  [doy]
• 3Trei
  [treh-ee]
• 4Patru
  [paht-roo]
• 5Cinci
  [cheen-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 ye-steh oon-ool/oh...]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh ye-steh ah-dreh-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-tehtsuh sah-mee ah-rah-tsahts (peh hahr-tuh)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kuhnd ye-steh oor-muh-toh-rool (ow-toh-booze)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (către ...)
  [oon bee-let (kuh-treh ...)]

Sibiu, known in German as Hermannstadt, was founded in the 12th century by Saxon settlers. These settlers were invited by the Hungarian King Géza II to defend the region against invasions. The town quickly developed into an important trade center, given its strategic location in central Transylvania.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Sibiu became one of the most fortified cities in Transylvania. The city was surrounded by thick walls, defensive towers, and bastions. Many of these structures, such as the Council Tower and the Potters' Tower, still stand today and offer a glimpse into the city's medieval past.

By the 16th century, Sibiu had established itself as a cultural and economic hub. The city was renowned for its guilds, which included blacksmiths, goldsmiths, and weavers. Sibiu's market square, the Large Square (Piața Mare), became the center of commercial activity and remains a focal point for visitors today.

The Reformation had a significant impact on Sibiu. The city embraced Lutheranism, and the Evangelical Cathedral of St. Mary became a central place of worship for the Saxon community. This period also saw the establishment of schools and the flourishing of literature and arts in the region.

In the late 17th century, Transylvania, including Sibiu, came under Habsburg rule. The city became the capital of the Principality of Transylvania and an important administrative center. This period brought architectural changes, with Baroque-style buildings and improved infrastructure.

The 19th century was a time of modernization for Sibiu. The city saw the construction of new public buildings, educational institutions, and the introduction of the railway in 1872. These developments contributed to Sibiu's growth and integration into the broader European economy.

Following the end of World War I, Sibiu became part of Romania as a result of the Great Union of 1918. The interwar period was marked by significant demographic changes and the integration of various ethnic communities. This era also saw the establishment of cultural institutions, such as the Brukenthal National Museum.

World War II brought significant challenges to Sibiu, including bombings and political turmoil. After the war, Romania fell under communist rule, which led to industrialization and urbanization in Sibiu. The city's historic center was preserved, but many new residential areas were developed to accommodate the growing population.

The fall of communism in 1989 marked a new era for Sibiu. The city underwent extensive restoration projects to preserve its historical landmarks. In 2007, Sibiu was designated the European Capital of Culture, which spurred further investments in cultural and touristic infrastructure, solidifying its status as a key destination in Romania.

Sibiu is located in the heart of Romania and is well connected by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airport is Sibiu International Airport (SBZ), which is just a 10-minute drive from the city center. There are direct flights from major European cities. Alternatively, you can fly into Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) and take a train or bus to Sibiu, which takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Sibiu is well-served by Romania's rail network, with regular trains from Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and other major cities. Long-distance buses are also available and are a cost-effective way to reach Sibiu.

Once in Sibiu, you can easily explore the city on foot, especially the historical center. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. The public transportation system is efficient and affordable. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the driver. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available in Sibiu. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are available at the airport and in the city. Parking can be challenging in the city center, so it's advisable to use public transport or walk.

The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are widely available throughout Sibiu, and currency exchange services can be found at the airport, banks, and exchange offices in the city.

Sibiu is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets and public transport. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number will connect you to police, fire services, and medical emergencies. Sibiu has several hospitals and clinics that can provide medical care. Pharmacies are also available for over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.

Fashion: Do dress modestly and comfortably, especially if you plan to visit religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees and speak softly. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket when boarding buses or trams. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A slight nod is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Sibiu like a local, spend time in the Piața Mare and Piața Mică, the main squares where locals gather. Visit the local markets, such as the Cibin Market, to buy fresh produce and traditional Romanian goods. Engage with locals, as they are friendly and often willing to share stories and tips. Don't miss the ASTRA National Museum Complex, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life. For a unique experience, take a walk on the Bridge of Lies and explore the nearby fortified churches and villages in the surrounding countryside.