Târgu Jiu: The Heart of Artistic Heritage

• 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-tzoo-mesk]
• Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-zahtz-muh]
• How are you?Ce faci?
  [cheh fahch?]
• Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shee too?]
• Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-beetz en-glez-uh?]
• I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo uhn-tzel-eg]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh vad men-yool, vuh rohg]
• I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-nuhnk car-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-zhoo-tohr]
• Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
• Call the Police!Sunați Poliția!
  [soo-nuh-tzuh poh-lee-tsee-ah]
• Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
  [soo-nuh-tzuh oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostM-am pierdut
  [mahm pyehr-dooht]
• 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-ahr muh ooit]
• 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 scădeți prețul?
  [poo-tehtzuh suh skuh-dehtz prehtzool]

• What time is it?Cât este ora?
  [kaht yehs-teh oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [ehs-teh oh-rah oo-noo]
• Half past (10)Deva pas la zece
  [deh-vah pahs lah zeh-cheh]
• MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-neh-tsa]
• AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zuh]
• EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
• YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
• TodayAstăzi
  [ahs-tuhz]
• TomorrowMâine
  [muh-ee-neh]
• 1unu
  [oo-noo]
• 2doi
  [doy]
• 3trei
  [tray]
• 4patru
  [paht-roo]
• 5cinci
  [cheenk]
• 6șase
  [shah-seh]
• 7șapte
  [shahp-teh]
• 8opt
  [ohpt]
• 9nouă
  [noo-wuh]
• 10zece
  [zeh-cheh]

• Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/o...
  [oon-deh yehs-teh oon-ool / oh]
• What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh yehs-teh ah-dre-sah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-tehtsuh suh-mee ah-rah-tzahtz (peh hahr-tuh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Când este următorul (autobuz)?
  [kund yehs-teh oor-muh-tor-ool (ow-toh-booze)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (spre ....)
  [oon bee-let (spreh)]

The history of Târgu Jiu dates back to ancient times when the region was inhabited by the Dacians, a powerful and resourceful people who lived in the Carpathian Mountains and along the Danube River. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was a significant settlement long before the Roman conquest of Dacia in 106 AD. The Dacians left behind a rich cultural heritage that still influences the local culture today.

During the medieval period, Târgu Jiu emerged as an important market town. The name 'Târgu' itself means 'market' in Romanian, indicating its role as a commercial hub. The town was strategically located on trade routes that connected Transylvania with the Danube River, facilitating the exchange of goods and culture. Historical records from the 14th century highlight Târgu Jiu as a bustling center of commerce and trade.

One of the most significant events in Târgu Jiu's history is the Battle of Târgu Jiu, which took place during World War I in 1916. Romanian forces, under the command of General Ion Dragalina, successfully defended the town against the Central Powers. This battle was crucial in maintaining Romanian control over the region and is commemorated by several monuments, including the Heroes' Cross on top of the Parâng Mountains.

Târgu Jiu is internationally renowned for its association with the famed Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncuși. Born in the nearby village of Hobița, Brâncuși created the Sculptural Ensemble of Constantin Brâncuși at Târgu Jiu, which includes three monumental works: 'The Endless Column,' 'The Gate of the Kiss,' and 'The Table of Silence.' These sculptures, completed in 1938, are considered masterpieces of modern art and symbolize the sacrifice of Romanian soldiers in World War I.

The communist era brought significant changes to Târgu Jiu, transforming it from a market town into an industrial center. During Nicolae Ceaușescu's regime, various factories and industrial complexes were established, leading to rapid urbanization and population growth. The town's infrastructure was modernized, and many historical buildings were lost to new construction. Despite the challenges, Târgu Jiu managed to preserve its cultural heritage and continued to be a vibrant community.

Since the fall of communism in 1989, Târgu Jiu has undergone a period of revival and transformation. Efforts have been made to restore and preserve historical sites, and the town has embraced its cultural heritage. The Sculptural Ensemble of Constantin Brâncuși has been recognized as a site of national and international importance, attracting tourists from around the world. Today, Târgu Jiu is a blend of historical charm and modern development, offering a rich cultural experience to visitors.

Târgu Jiu is located in Gorj County, Romania. The nearest international airport is Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, approximately 300 kilometers away. From Bucharest, you can take a train or a bus to Târgu Jiu, with the journey typically taking around 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which offers the flexibility to explore the scenic routes of Romania.

Târgu Jiu has a well-connected local transportation system. Buses and taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. For those who prefer more flexibility, car rentals are available and can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who wish to explore the city in an eco-friendly manner. The city is pedestrian-friendly with many attractions within walking distance.

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

Târgu Jiu 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. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Târgu Jiu. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. 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 slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Târgu Jiu 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 Brâncuși Sculptural Ensemble, which is a key attraction in the city. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Jiu River and explore the local parks and gardens.