BUCHAREST (BUCURESTI) [Boo koo resht'] City Highlights Known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards, glorious Belle

poque buildings and a reputation for the high life (which in the 1900s earned its nickname of "Little Paris"), Bucharest, Romania's largest city and capital, is today a bustling metropolis. Romanian legend has it that the city of Bucharest was founded on the banks of the Dambovita River by a shepherd named Bucur, whose name literarily means "joy." His flute playing reportedly dazzled the people and his hearty wine from nearby vineyards endeared him to the local traders, who gave his name to the place. House of the Free Press (Casa Presei Libere) Address: Piata Presei Libere 1 (map) An impressive edifice standing somewhat menacingly at the entrance to the capital, Casa Scanteii (as it is still universally known) was designed by architect Horia Maicu and completed in 1956, one year after the strikingly similar Palace of Science and Culture in Warsaw, Poland. Originally housing almost all of the capital's printing presses and newsrooms, it, today, carries out much the same function, with the addition of the Bucharest Stock Exchange in the southern wing. The Arch of Triumph (Arcul de Triumf) Address: Piata Arcul de Triumf (map) Initially built of wood in 1922 to honor the bravery of Romanian soldiers who fought in World War I, Bucharest's very own Arc de Triomphe was finished in Deva granite in 1936. Designed by the architect, Petre Antonescu, the Arc stands 85 feet high. An interior staircase allows visitors to climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. The sculptures decorating the structure were created by leading Romanian artists, including Ion Jalea, Constantin Medrea and Constantin Baraschi. Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue) Calea Victoriei is Bucharest's oldest and arguably, most charming street. Built in 1692 to link the Old Princely Court to Mogosoaia Palace, it was initially paved with oak beams. The street became Calea Victoriei in 1878, after the Romanian War of Independence victory. Between the two world wars, Calea Victoriei developed into one of the most fashionable streets in the city. Stroll along this street from Piata Victoriei to Piata Natiunilor Unite to discover some of the most stunning buildings in the city, including the Cantacuzino Palace, the historical Revolution Square, the Military Club, the CEC Headquarters and theNational History Museum. Cantacuzino Palace (Palatul Cantacuzino) Address: Calea Victoriei 141 Admission charge Grigore Cantacuzino was thought to be one of Romania's wealthiest citizens in 1899. As Prime Minister, it was his wish to have the most elegant residence in Bucharest. Using the designs of architect Ion Berindei, the Cantacuzino Palace was built between 1898 and 1900 in eclectic French style. Combining a neoclassical architectural style with art nouveau elements, it features wrought iron balconies, tall arched windows and a porte-cochere (an elegant wrought-iron doorway) flanked by two lions. Today, the palace houses the George Enescu Museum Revolution Square (Piata Revolutiei) The square gained worldwide notoriety when TV stations around the globe

broadcasted Nicolae Ceausescu's final moments in power on December 21, 1989. It was here, at the balcony of the former Communist Party Headquarters, that Ceausescu stared in disbelief as the people gathered in the square below turned on him. He fled the angry crowd in his white helicopter, only to be captured outside of the city a few hours later. The square's importance stretches back long before the dramatic events of the 1989 Revolution. On the far side of the square stands the former Royal Palace, now home to the National Art Museum, the stunning Romanian Athenaeum and the historic Athenee Palace Hotel. At the south end of the square, you can visit the small, but beautiful, Kretzulescu Church. The Royal Palace (Palatul Regal) Address: Calea Victoriei 49-53 (map) Erected between 1927 and 1937 in neoclassical style, the palace was home to King Carol II and to his son, King Mihai I, until 1947, when the monarchy was abolished in Romania. It was inside the halls of this palace that King Mihai, aged 18, led a coup that displaced the pro-Nazi government during the World War II and put Romania on the Allies' side. Today, the former Royal palace houses the Romanian National Art Museum. The Romanian Athenaeum (Ateneul Roman) Address: Str. Benjamin Franklin 1 (map) Tel: (21) 315.00.26 or 315.25.67 fge.org.ro/filarmonica-george-enescu The work of French architect Albert Galleron, who also designed the National Bank of Romania, the Athenaeum was completed in 1888, financed almost entirely with money donated by the general public. One of the preeminent public fundraising campaigns ever in Romania, the "Give a penny for the Athenaeum" campaign saved the project after the original patrons ran out of funds. With its high dome and Doric columns, the Athenaeum resembles an ancient temple. The lobby has a beautifully painted ceiling decorated in gold leaf, while curved balconies cascade in ringlets off a spiral staircase. A ring of pink marble columns is linked by flowing arches where elaborate brass lanterns hang like gems from a necklace. Inside the concert hall, voluptuous frescoes cover the ceiling and walls. Renowned worldwide for its outstanding acoustics, it is Bucharest's most prestigious concert hall and home of the Romanian George Enescu Philharmonic. Athenee Palace Hotel Address: Str. Episcopiei 1-3 (map) Built in 1914 by French architect Teophile Bradeau, the Athenee Palace (currently a posh Hilton hotel) was made famous in Olivia Manning's novel, Balkan Trilogy, as a centre of intrigue and espionage during World War II. British and German diplomats plotted, schemed and spied on each other in the epoch atmosphere of the hotel's English Bar, while a host of rich and famous gathered and intrigued as their society collapsed around them. The hotel suffered heavy bombing during the war and consequently, was rebuilt in 1945. Kretzulescu Church Address: Calea Victoriei 47 (map) Nestled amid the other historical buildings in Piata Revolutiei, this small red-brick Orthodox church was built in 1722 by the great chancellor Iordache Kretzulescu and his wife, Safta (a daughter of Constantin Brancoveanu) in the Brancovenesti architectural style. The interior frescoes were executed around 1860 by the famous Romanian painter Gheorghe Tattarescu. Royal Palace Great Concert Hall (Sala Palatului) (map) Located next to the Royal Palace, the concave-roof structure was built in 1960 to accommodate the 3,000 Communist party members who every five years attended the communist party congress. It was on this stage that Nicolae Ceausescu would deliver his

vision of a multilaterally developed socialist society. Today, the massive auditorium plays host to various conferences and events, including some of the George Enescu International Festival concerts. The Military Club (Cercul Militar National) Address: Blvd. Regina Elisabeta 21 (map) Tel: (21) 313.86.80 Standing guard imposingly, this neoclassical masterpiece, designed by Romanian architect Dimitrie Maimaroiu, was built in 1912 to serve the social, cultural and educational needs of the Romanian army. Banquets and official events are still hosted in the ballrooms, while the upstairs area is reserved for the army's library, as well as offices and classrooms for officer instruction. The main part of the building is off-limits to civilians, but the sumptuous restaurant and summer terrace is open to the public. The Palace of the Savings Bank (Casa de Economii si Consemnatiuni / CEC) Address: Calea Victoriei 11-13 (map) Boasting one of the most impressive neoclassical facades in the city, this structure was built in the 19th century to the design of French architect Paul Gottereanu (who between 1875 and 1900 designed more than 50 buildings in the city, to house the first Romanian Savings Bank. The square-shaped palace has a large central dome with metallic ribs separated by glass, which allows natural light to come in; there are also four smaller domes. The arch at the entrance, with its Corinthian columns, is a highlight of any architectural tour of the city.

Old Historical Center of Bucharest (Centrul Vechi al Orasului) Lipscani District Perhaps the city's unique charm can be best observed in the area known as Lipscani, which consists of a jumble of streets between Calea Victoriei, Blvd. Bratianu, Blvd. Regina Elisabeta and the Dambovita River. A once-glamorous residential area, the old city centre is now slowly being refashioned into an upscale neighborhood. At the beginning of 1400s, most merchants and craftsmen - Romanian, Austrian, Greek, Bulgarian, Serbian, Armenian and Jewish - established their stores and shops in this section of the city. Soon, the area became known as Lipscani, named for the many German traders from Lipsca or Leiptzig. Other streets took on the names of various old craft communities and guilds, such as Blanari (furriers), Covaci (blacksmiths), Gabroveni (knife makers) and Cavafii Vechii (shoe-makers). The mix of nationalities and cultures is reflected in the mishmash of architectural styles, from baroque to neoclassical to art nouveau. Today, the area is home to many art galleries, antique shops and coffeehouses. On a beautiful day, you can stroll down the narrow cobblestone streets and imagine the shopkeepers outside near their stores, encouraging people to buy their merchandise and negotiating prices with them. Don't forget to stop by Hanul cu Tei, which is a rectangular courtyard between Strada Lipscani and Strada Blanari, home to an array of art and antiques shops. Old Princely Court & Church (Palatul si Biserica Curtea Veche) Address: Strada Franceza 25-31 (map) Tel: (21) 314.03.75 Museum open: Mon. Sun 10:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m.; Admission charge At the centre of the historic area are the remains of the Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche), built in the 15th century by Vlad Tepes, also known as Vlad Dracula. According to local lore, Vlad kept his prisoners in dungeons which commenced beneath the Princely Court and extended under the city. All that remains today are a few walls, arches, tombstones and a Corinthian column.

The Old Court Museum was established in 1972 when an archaeological dig revealed the remains of the fortress, along with Dacian pottery and Roman coins, evidence of Bucharest's earliest inhabitants. The oldest document attesting to the city's origin under the name of Bucuresti (Bucharest) was discovered here. It was issued on September 20, 1459 and signed by Prince Vlad Tepes. Next to the palace stands the Old Court Church (Biserica Curtea Veche), dating from 1559 and considered the oldest in Bucharest. For two centuries, the church served as coronation ground for Romanian princes. Some of the original 16th century frescoes have been preserved. Manuc's Inn (Hanul lui Manuc) Address: Str. Franceza 62-64 (map) Tel: (21) 313.14.11 Built between 1804 and 1808 by the wealthy Armenian trader Emanuel Marzaian (called by the Turks, Manuc Bey), the inn was witness in 1812 to the preliminary talks of the Peace Treaty that put an end to the Russian -Turkish War (18061812). A favorite meeting and resting place for tradesmen in those times, Manuc's Inn has preserved to this day its old style and flavor. It now serves as a hotel with a restaurant, a wine cellar and a pastry shop. The Beer Cart Restaurant (Carul cu Bere) Strada Stavropoleos 3-5 (map) Tel: (21) 313.75.60 Opened in 1879, this famous restaurant and beer house soon became one of the most popular meeting places for Bucharest's literati who would gather to discuss matters of their time. Its neo-gothic architectural style is reflected both in the faades and the interior decorations: columns, arches, chandeliers, a wooden staircase, furniture and murals on the walls and ceiling. National Bank of Romania (Banca Nationala a Romaniei) Address: Str. Lipscani 25 (map) The National Bank of Romania (BNR) stands on the site of one of the most famous buildings in Romania: the Hanul Serban Voda, which from 1678 until 1883 was the home of various institutions ranging from a pub to an inn to a girl's dormitory! After two fires gutted the building, however, the land was leveled and in 1883, work began on the BNR, completed to the designs of French architects Cassien Bernard and Albert Galleron in 1885. Built in neoclassical French style, the building boasts a facade with Corinthian columns and an enormous central banking hall. The passing of time has left its marks on the building, but it remains a classic worthy of admiration. University Square (Piata Universitatii) (map) Buzzing with crowds and traffic from early morning until late at night, this area is one of the most popular meeting places in Bucharest. The square brings together some remarkable architectural masterpieces on each of its four corners, starting with the University of Bucharest's School of Architecture, theBucharest National Theatre, the neoclassicalColtea Hospital and its lovely church (1702-1794) and the Sutu Palace, now home to the Bucharest History Museum. In the middle of the square, on a little island, 10 stone crosses pay respect to those killed during the 1989 revolution. Below the square is an underground passage with shops and eateries, allowing pedestrians to cross from one side of the square to another and to access the subway station. University of Bucharest (Universitatea Bucuresti) Address: Blvd. Regina Elizabeta (near University Square) (map) Bucharest remains first and foremost a hub of higher education. The University of Bucharest was founded in 1864 by Alexandru Ioan Cuza, ruler of the newly united principalities of

Walachia and Moldova. Work on the neoclassical building began in 1857 and finished in 1859. Between the two World Wars, the libraries and corridors of the University hosted an impressive number of Romanian personalities, including Mircea Eliade, Emil Cioran, Eugne Ionesco, Sergiu Celibidache. Year-round, you can find book merchants near the University building selling anything from antique books, records, discontinued newspapers and illustrated broadsheets from another age to secondhand books. Coltea Hospital (Spitalul Coltea) Address: Blvd. I.C. Bratianu 1 (map) The oldest hospital in Bucharest, dating from 1704, Coltea was built on land belonging to the Vacaresti family, who at the time owned many of the great prosperities of the capital. The original building was destroyed by an earthquake in 1802, and the neoclassical building standing today dates from 1888. The church next to the hospital is the original 1701 construction, and is currently undergoing much-needed renovation. The hospital remains a functioning public health centre; you may enter only if you have official business. The church, however, is open to all, and the saintly silhouettes on the ceiling are admirable. Sutu Palace (Palatul Sutu) Address: Blvd I.C. Bratianu 2 (near University Square) (map) Famous for the grandiose balls held here in the 1900s, Sutu Palace was built in neogothic style between 1832 and 1834 by foreign minister Costache Sutu, to designs of architects Johann Veit and Konrad Schwinck. In 1862, the palace was redecorated by sculptor Karl Storck, who created three arcades and a monumental stairway; a huge Murano mirror was added in the hallway. Only the painted ceilings, the stucco, the parquet flooring and the tile stoves have been preserved. Since 1959, the building has housed the Bucharest History & Art Museum (see details). Communist legacy Parliament Palace (Palatul Parlamentului) Address: Calea 13 Septembrie 1, Intrarea A3 (map) Tel: (21) 311.36.11 Hours: Mon. - Sun. 10:00am - 4:00pm Admission charge (English guided tour available) Built by Communist Party leader, Nicolae Ceausescu, the colossal Parliament Palace (formerly known as the People's Palace) is the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. It took 20,000 workers and 700 architects to build. The palace boasts 12 stories, 1,100 rooms, a 328-ft-long lobby and four underground levels, including an enormous nuclear bunker. When construction started in 1984, the dictator intended it to be the headquarters of his government. Today, it houses Romania's Parliament and serves as an international conference centre. Built and furnished exclusively with Romanian materials, the building reflects the work of the country's best artisans. A guided tour takes visitors through a small section of dazzling rooms, huge halls and quarters used by the Senate (when not in session). The interior is a luxurious display of crystal chandeliers, mosaics, oak paneling, marble, gold leaf, stained-glass windows and floors covered in rich carpets. Interesting facts: -It is the world's second-largest office building in surface (after the Pentagon) and the third largest in volume (after Cape Canaveral in the U.S. and the Great Pyramid in Egypt) - The crystal chandelier in the Human Rights Hall (Sala Drepturilor Omului) weighs 2.5 tons - Some of the chandeliers have as many as 7,000 light bulbs

Civic Centre (Centrul Civic) Ceausescu's building megalomania climaxed with the construction of the Civic Centre, an area located at the south end of the Palace of Parliament along Bulevardul Unirii. Bucharest had taken significant damage from the Allied bombing during World War II and the earthquake of March 4, 1977. However, neither of these events changed the face of the city as much as the redevelopment schemes of the 1980s, when eight square kilometres in the Old Historical Centre of Bucharest were leveled, including monasteries, churches, synagogues, a hospital and a noted Art Deco sports stadium. Some 40,000 people were evicted with only a single day's notice to make room for the construction of these Stalinist apartment buildings topped with neoclassical follies. George Enescu Museum (Muzeul National George Enescu) Address: Calea Victoriei 141 Tel: (21) 318.14.50 Open: Tue. - Sun. 10:00am - 5:00pm; Closed Mon. Admission charge The museum, housed in the Cantacuzino Palace, displays documents and various objects that belonged to the great Romanian composer and violinist George Enescu (1881-1955), including a Bach music collection he received as a gift from Queen Elisabeta of Romania. A world-class violinist, Enescu studied at the Vienna Conservatory, where he met German composer Johannes Brahms and where he also gave his first concerts. In Paris, Enescu graduated from the French Conservatory in 1899. His best-known works, theRomanian Rhapsodies, earned him national and international fame. In 1936, hisOedipe tragic opera premiered in Paris and Enescu was awarded the French Legion of Honor award for the composition. A member of the Romanian Academy and corresponding member of the Institute of France, George Enescu was the teacher of renowned violinist Yehudi Menuhin. Every two years, the Romanian Athenaeum celebrates the maestro by hosting the George Enescu International Festival. National Museum of Contemporary Art (Muzeul National de Arta Contemporana) Address: Calea 13 Septembrie 1, entrance E4 Tel: (21) 411.10.40 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mnac.ro Open: Wed. - Sun. 10:00am - 6:00pm; Closed Mon. & Tue. Admission charge Bucharest's newest museum, the MNAC, as it is often called by museum-goers, displays works of Romania's contemporary artists as well as many temporary exhibits by international artists. The museum is housed in a wing of the Palace of Parliament, the space which would have served as Nicolae and Ileana Ceausescu's private apartment (where just the bathroom occupied 680 square feet, while the adjoining boudoir was three times that size).

Snagov Monastery & Lake (Manastirea & Lacul Snagov) Where: 25 miles north of Bucharest Access: car, bus, taxi One hundred years after the church was built (1364), Vlad Tepes (Vlad Dracula) added the fortress walls and a dungeon. A plaque on the floor of the church marks the grave with the presumed remains of the count. The monastery, located on an island on the far side of the lake, can only be accessed by boat.

BRASOV [Brah' shov] City Highlights Fringed by the peaks of the Southern Carpathian Mountains and resplendent with gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture, as well as a wealth of historical attractions, Brasov is one of the most visited places in Romania. Founded by the Teutonic Knights in 1211 on an ancient Dacian site and settled by the Saxons as one of the seven walled citadels*, Brasov exudes a distinct medieval ambiance and has been used as backdrop in many recent period films. The location of the city at the intersection of trade routes linking the Ottoman Empire and western Europe, together with certain tax exemptions, allowed Saxon merchants to obtain considerable wealth and exert a strong political influence in the region. This was reflected in the city's German name, Kronstadt, as well as in its Latin name, Corona, meaning Crown City (hence, the coat of arms of the city which is a crown with oak roots). Fortifications were erected around the city and continually expanded, with several towers maintained by different craft guilds, according to medieval custom. Brasov is home to what is said to be the narrowest street in Europe. The Rope Street(Strada Sforii) is approximately four feet wide and links Cerbului Street with Poarta Schei Street. The street was initially used as an access route by firefighters. Stroll around the old Town Hall Square (Piata Sfatului) where you can admire colorfully painted and ornately trimmed baroque structures. Take a peek inside the Black Church (Biserica Neagra), the largest gothic church in Romania. Its name derives from damage caused by the Great Fire of 1689, when flames and smoke blackened its walls. The interior is impressive and well-kept and houses one of the largest organs in Eastern Europe. Nearby are towering mountains, rolling fields, thick forests and villages with fortified churches. * The seven walled citadels populated by the Saxons of Transylvania were known in German as the Siebenbrgen. The other Siebenbrgen citadels were: Bistrita (Bistritz), Cluj (Klausenburg),Medias (Mediasch), Sebes (Mhlbach), Sibiu (H ermannstadt), Sighisoara (Schssburg) City Landmarks The Council Square (Piata Sfatului) The Saxons built massive stone walls and seven bastions around the city that are still visible today, as well as ornate churches, elaborately trimmed buildings and one of the finest central squares in the country, said to be the spot to which the legendary Pied Piper led the children of Hamlin. Located at the heart of old medieval Brasov and lined with beautiful red-roofed merchant houses, the Council Square, known to the Saxon population as the Marktplatz, is a nice place to rest and soak in the beautiful scenery. In the centre of the square stands the Old Town Hall (1420), now home to Brasov's History Museum, while the southeast corner is dominated by the town's most famous landmark, the Black Church. Around the square, you'll find the renaissance-style Merchant's House (now the Cerbul Carpatin restaurant), the beautiful archway of the Orthodox Cathedral and the memorial museum of the Mureseanu family. In late summer, the Golden Stag (Cerbul de Aur) music festival takes place here.

The Old Town Hall (Casa Sfatului) Address: Piata Sfatului 30 Built in the 13th century, the house served as meeting place for the town councilors, known as centurions. On top of the building sits the Trumpeter's Tower, used during the Middle Ages as a watchtower for warning the citadel inhabitants of approaching danger. Today, the old city hall houses the Brasov History Museum (see museum details). The Black Church (Biserica Neagra) Address: Curtea Johannes Honterus 2 Open: Mon. - Sat. 10:00am - 3:30pm; (September 16 June 14); Mon. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (June 15 September 15); Closed Sun. Organ concerts are held during the summer: June and September: Tuesday (6:00 p.m.) July and August: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday (6:00 p.m.) Admission charge Brasov's famous landmark and Romania's leading gothic church, the Black Church towers over the Council Square and the old town. Built between 1385 and 1477 on the site of an earlier church (destroyed by Mongol invasions in 1242), the construction of the Marienkirche, as it was known in German, was hampered by extensive damage caused by Turkish raids in 1421. The church was given its new name after disaster struck again in 1689, when the Great Fire leveled most of the town, blackening the walls of the church. Restoration took almost 100 years. Of two towers planned, only one was finished. The Black Church is the largest gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul. The Black Church boasts the largest church bell in Romania, weighing in at seven tons. The original gothic interior got a makeover during restorations, and the lofty, light space you see today is mostly baroque. The interior is beautiful, with balconies, stained glass windows, an enormous organ, stone columns and walls adorned with fabulous Turkish carpets. The church windows have recently been fitted out with special UV-filtering glass to protect the 119 Anatolian carpets. Thankful to have survived their trips into the "barbaric" lands south and east of the Carpathians, German merchants donated the carpets to the church in the 17th and 18th centuries. The collection is the largest of its kind in Europe. Listen to the impressive 4,000-pipe organ dating from 1839 during concerts held here three times a week in the summer.

Brasov's Defensive Fortifications Ever since Saxon settlers arrived in the early 12th century, invading Mongols, Turks and others gave them a tough time, repeatedly destroying the old settlements of Bartholoma and Corona. Thereafter, the Saxons set themselves to building fortifications around their town. Most work was done between 1400 and 1650, when outer and inner walls were erected, together with massive defense towers and gates. Part of the defensive wall, once 40 feet high, seven feet thick and two miles long, can still be seen today, though most was taken down in the 19th century to make room for the city's expansion. Of the original seven bastions, only a few have survived, including the newly renovatedGraft Bastion, located in the middle of the citadel's northwest wing. On the west side of the wall, walk along picturesque Dupa Ziduri Street(Dupa Ziduri means Behind the Walls) to catch a glimpse of the 15th century White and Black Towers. The Blacksmiths' Bastion, one of the original seven built and guarded by the city's guilds, is

located at the southern end of Dupa Ziduri Street. Follow the city wall southeast to the fairytale Catherine's Gate. Built in 1559 and once the main entrance to medieval Kronstadt, it is the only original city gate to have survived the test of time. Nearby is the classicist Schei Gate, built in 1827. The Weavers' Bastion can be admired on George Cosbuc Street. Graft Bastion (Bastionul Graft) The newly restored 16th century bastion (1521) has four levels, accessible through interior staircases. Levels two, three and four host an array of medieval artifacts exhibits, while level one serves as a rest area for visitors. White Tower (Turnul Alb) Located near Graft Bastion, the semicircular White Tower was completed in 1494. A wooden staircase spirals up four levels, offering a great view of the old town. Located high on a hill, you'll have to climb some 200 steps to reach it. Black Tower (Turnul Negru) The squared Black Tower, also built in 1494, stands atop a rock on Starja Hill near the Blacksmiths' Bastion. The tower received its name from a severe fire in 1559 when it was struck by lightning. Recently renovated and boasting a pyramid-shaped glass roof, the Black Tower houses a small war-related artifacts museum. There are four floors inside, each reached by a narrow wooden ladder. Climb all the way to the top for a panoramic view of the Black Church. Blacksmiths' Bastion (Bastionul Fierarilor) First attested in 1529, the Blacksmiths' Bastion is now home to the Brasov Archives which hosts more than 100,000 old and rare documents, including 80 valuable 14th - 16th century letters. Among them is the oldest letter in the Romanian language, written in 1521 by Neacsu, a merchant from the town of Campulung. Catherine's Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) Catherine's Gate, erected in 1559 by the Tailors' Guild, is the only original gate to have survived from medieval times. The fairy-tale tower we see today was part of a bigger structure, which unfortunately, was demolished in 1827. The original structure can be seen at the Weavers' Bastion Museum where a large model of 16th century Brasov is displayed. The four small corner turrets (as seen in other Saxon citadels) symbolized the judicial autonomy of the Town Council which could apply, if necessary, the death penalty. Above the entrance, the tower bears the city's coat of arms: a crown on a tree trunk. Schei Gate (Poarta Schei) Entry to the Schei district from the walled city was marked by the Schei Gate. Old documents mention it, also, under the name of Porta Valacce (Wallachs'Gate) because it was the only entrance for the Romanians living in Schei. They were not allowed to use any of the other entrances. The structure standing today was built in 1827 by Emperor Franz I and replaced the old Schei Gate which had been heavily damaged by fires. The gate resembles a triumphal arch with three openings. Above the small arches on both sides, you can see Latin inscriptions. Brasov Fortress (Cetate) Address: Dealul Cetatii Tel: (268) 417.614 Open: Mon. - Sun. 11:00am - 12:00am Strategically located on a hill overlooking the town and the plains to the north, the citadel was part of Brasov's outer fortification system. Built in wood in 1524, it was replaced with a stone structure in the 16th century, only to be abandoned in the 17th century after technological innovations made cannons stronger than the building. Today, it serves as a restaurant. Weavers' Bastion (Bastionul Tesatorilor) Built during 1421-1436 and rebuilt in 1570-1573, this is the largest medieval bastion in Brasov and the best-preserved among the seven original watchtowers constructed around the city

walls. Today, the Weavers' Bastion houses an interesting museum (see museum details) that can be visited on the way up Tampa Mountain. Tampa Mountain (Muntele Tampa) Brasov is often referred to as the city at the foot of Mount Tampa. Above the Weavers' Bastion, along the southeastern side of the fortress walls, is a very romantic alley (Aleea Tiberiu Brediceanu), shaded by old trees and dotted with many benches. From here, you can hike to the top of Tampa Mountain, where the original defensive fortress was built. When Vlad Tepes attacked Brasov in 1458-60, the citadel was destroyed and 40 merchants were impaled on top of the mountain. Walking to the top takes about an hour; follow the red triangles from the cable car station or the yellow triangles from Brediceanu Alley. You also could elect to take the Tampa cable car to the peak (3,000 feet) for the best views of the old town. Tampa Cable Car (Telecabina Tampa) Address: Aleea Tiberiu Brediceanu Tel: (268) 478.657 The Schei District During the Saxon rule of Brasov, from the 13th to the 17th century, Romanians were forbidden from owning property inside the citadel walls and so they settled in the southwestern Schei district. Romanians could only enter the town at certain times and had to pay a toll at the gate for the privilege of selling their produce inside the citadel. Every spring, thousands of Romanians gather at Solomon's Rocks for a massive picnic and sing-along, after following the traditional Junii Brasovului procession through town. This festival celebrates the one day a year that Romanians were allowed to enter the Saxon town freely. Walk up Strada Prundului to Piata Unirii and the beautiful St. Nicholas Church; then, wander around the small curving streets that gradually slope upwards against the hill. Continue to the southern end of Schei and you'll end up on the gravel road to the impressive Solomon's Rocks(Pietrele lui Solomon), a popular picnic area for locals during the weekend but relatively quiet all other times. Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church (Biserica Sfantul Nicolae) Address: Piata Unirii 1 - 2 Saint Nicholas' Church dominates the Schei District. First built in wood in 1392, replaced with a stone structure in 1495 and considerably expanded in the 18th century, the church is a true architectural masterpiece. With a mix of Byzantine, baroque and gothic styles, it features a slender tower and four corner towers. Like other medieval churches, it is surrounded by protective walls with large wooden gates. The enclosure shelters a small old cemetery where several *prominent people of Romania are buried. The First Romanian School, now a museum (see museum details), the Library and the Archives of Saint Nicholas Church also are found on nearby grounds. * The old cemetery shelters the grave of Nicolae Titulescu (1882-1941), finance minister, foreign minister and president of the League of Nations. The monument near his grave quotes a line from his will: "I wish to be buried in Transylvania. My friends will know to find a place according to my wish."

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Bran Castle Location: Transylvania Central Romania Nearby large town: Brasov (16 miles northeast) Nearest train station: Brasov Address: Str. Traian Mosoiu 24, Bran Telephone: (268) 237.700 or 237.701 Email: [email protected] Web: www.Bran-Castle.com Open: May 1 - Sept. 30: Monday: 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm; Tuesday - Sunday: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Oct. 1 - April 30: Monday: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm; Tuesday - Sunday: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm Admission charge: www.Bran-Castle.com/en/Information/Pretul_Biletului Surrounded by an aura of mystery and legend and perched high atop a 200-foot-high rock, Bran Castle owes its fame to its imposing towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stockers Dracula. Built on the site of a Teutonic Knights stronghold dating from 1212, the castle was first documented in an act issued by Louis I of Hungary on November 19, 1377, giving the Saxons of Kronstadt (Brasov) the privilege to build the Citadel. Although Stoker never visited Transylvania, the Irish author relied on research and his vivid imagination to create the dark and intimidating stomping ground of Count Dracula, leading to persistent myths that it was once the home of Vlad Tepes, ruler of Walachia. While the association with Dracula is sketchy at best, the castle continues to hold a strong attraction for all fans of the Count. From 1920 to 1957 Bran served as royal residence, a gift of the people of Brasov to Queen Marie of Romania. The castle is now a museum open to tourists, displaying art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. Narrow winding stairways lead through some 60 timbered rooms, many connected by underground passages, which house collections of furniture, weapons and armor dating from the 14th to the 19th centuries. The castle overlooks the picturesque village of Bran, which offers an open-air Ethnographic Museum consisting of old local-style village houses complete with furniture, household objects and costumes. Nearby attractions: Rasnov Fortress (7 miles); Brasov (16 miles); Peles Castle in Sinaia (35 miles); the ski resorts in Poiana Brasov (10 miles) and Predeal (15 miles); the medieval cities of Sighisoara (88 miles) and Sibiu (96 miles); Bucharest (110 miles).

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Sighisoara (See ghee swahr' ah) Sighisoara - City Highlights Founded by Transylvanian Saxons during the 12th century, Sighisoara (Schassburg in German) still stands as one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this perfectly intact 16th century gem with nine towers, cobbled streets, burgher houses and ornate churches rivals the historic streets of Old Prague or Vienna for atmospheric magic. It is also the birthplace of Vlad Dracula, also known as Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler), ruler of the province of Walachia from 1456 to 1462. It was he who inspired Bram Stoker's fictional creation, Count Dracula. His house is just one of the many attractions here. Others include the Church on the Hillwith its 500-year-old frescoes, the 13th century Venetian House and the Church of the Dominican Monastery, known for its Transylvanian renaissance carved altarpiece, baroque pulpit, Oriental carpets and 17th century organ. Sighisoara's citadel was built in the 12th century, when it was known as Castrum Sex (Fort Six), and was further strengthened and extended in the 15th century. The name must have existed long before, as the Saxons built their walled town on the ruins of a former Roman fortress. In 1298, the town was mentioned as Schespurch, while in 1367 it was called Civitas de Seguswar. The name of Sighisoara was first noted in a written document issued by Vlad Dracul, Vlad the Impaler's father, in 1431. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the economic growth recorded by Sighisoara's industrious craftsmen and tradesmen ensured financial means for the construction of a strong defense system provided with 14 towers and several bastions provided with gunnery directed to all four cardinal points. Each tower was built, maintained and defended by a craft guild. Among the most striking is the 14th century Clock Tower. This tower controlled the main gate of the half-mile-long defensive wall and stored the city's treasures. Sighisoara was not the biggest or richest of the seven Saxon walled citadels* in Transylvania, but it has become one of the most popular. A walk through the town's hilly streets with their original medieval architecture, magical mix of winding cobbled alleys, steep stairways, secluded squares, towers, turrets and enchantingly preserved citadel, is like stepping back in time. * The seven walled citadels populated by the Saxons of Transylvania were known in German as the Siebenbrgen. The other Siebenbrgen citadels were: Bistrita (Bistritz), Brasov (Kronstadt), Cluj(Klausenburg), Medias (Mediasch), Sebes (M hlbach), Sibiu (Hermannstadt). City Landmarks Sighisoara's Citadel (Cetatea Sighisoarei) For several centuries, Sighisoara was a military and political stronghold. During the 14th 16th centuries, the Saxon and Magyar craft guilds erected towers around the citadel walls to protect the town from Turkish raids. Laid out on two to four levels, the towers stored ammunition and food supplies and were provided with firing windows for cannons, shells and arrows. Of the original fourteen towers and five artillery bastions, nine towers and two bastions have survived the test of time.

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The Tinsmiths' Tower (Turnul Cositorilor) still shows traces of its siege in 1704. You can still spot theBlacksmiths' Tower (Turnul Fierarilor), Butchers' Tower(Turnul Macelarilor), Cobblers' Tower (Turnul Cizmarilor), Furriers' Tower (Turnul Cojocarilor), Ropemakers' Tower (Turnul Franghierilor), Tailors' Tower (Turnul Croitorilor), Tanners' Tower(Turnul Tabacarilor) and Tinsmiths' Tower (Turnul Cositorilor). The ninth tower still standing is the Clock Tower itself. The Citadel Square (Piata Cetatii) Only goldsmiths, tailors, carpenters and tinsmiths were allowed to have their guilds and workshops inside the citadel. Guilds were active until 1875 This quaint small square lies at the heart of the citadel. In the old days, street markets, craft fairs, public executions and witch trials were held here. From this square, you can easily access the main attractions of Sighisoara. The Clock Tower (Turnul cu Ceas) Adddress: Piata Cetatii Open: Tue. - Sun. 9:00am - 4:00pm; Closed Mon. Admission charge Sighisoara's main point of attraction is the Clock Tower, also known as the Council Tower, built in the second half of the 14th century and expanded in the 16th century. The four small corner turrets on top of the tower symbolized the judicial autonomy of the Town Council, which could apply, if necessary, the death penalty. After a fire in 1676 when the town's gunpowder deposits located in the Tailors' Tower exploded, Austrian artists rebuilt the roof of the tower in its present baroque style and in 1894, colorful tiles were added. In the 17th century, a two-plate clock, with figurines carved from linden wood, was set at the top of the tower, with one dial looking over the Lower Town (Orasul de Jos), and the other facing the citadel (cetate in Romanian,burg in German). The figurines, moved by the clock's mechanism, each represent a different character. On the citadel side we see Peace holding an olive branch, accompanied by a drummer who is beating the hours on his bronze drum; above them are Justice, with a set of scales, and Law, wielding a sword, accompanied by two angels representing Day and Night. At 6 am, the angel symbolizing the day appears, marking the beginning of the working day and at 6 pm, the angel symbolizing the night comes out carrying two burning candles, marking the end of the working day. The dial overlooking the Lower City features a set of seven figurines, each representing the pagan gods who personified the days of the week: Diane (Monday), Mars (Tuesday), Mercury (Wednesday), Jupiter (Thursday), Venus (Friday), Saturn (Saturday)and the Sun (Sunday). The spire of the tower ends in a small golden sphere. At the top, there is a meteorological cock, which, turned around by air currents, forecasts the weather. This intricate two-plate clock has been working continuously since the Middle Ages. The Clock Tower served as the gathering place for the City Council until 1556. Since 1899, it has housed the History Museum(see museum details). From the top of the Clock Tower, visitors can look down on the red-tiled roofs of the Old Town and see intact 16th century Saxon houses lining the narrow cobblestone streets. Today, merchants and craftsmen still go about their business, as they did centuries ago.

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The Church of the Dominican Monastery (Biserica Manastirii Dominicane) Address: Piata Cetatii Not far from the Clock Tower stands the Church of the Dominican Monastery. First attested in a document in 1298 as part of a Dominican monastic settlement, the church became the Saxons' main Lutheran church in 1556. The monastic complex demolished in 1888 and its place was taken by the present town hall. Only the church has remained from the original structure. Built in late-gothic style typical of the hall-churches, with two naves and two rows of pillars, the church was restored in the 15th century and then again in the 16th century after the big fire of 1676. The last repairs were done in 1894 and 1929, when the church acquired its present-day look. Inside the church, you can admire some valuable artistic objects, such as the bronze font dating back to 1440, the stone doorframe carved in 1570 in Transylvanian renaissance style and built into the northern wall of the church, the collection of 16th and 17th century Oriental carpets, a baroque organ and a fine altarpiece from 1680. Classical and baroque concerts are often held here. The Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal/Romanian - Bergkirche/German) Address: Piata Cetatii Open: Mon. - Sun. 10:00am -6:00pm Admission charge To the north of the Clock Tower stands one of the most representative gothic-style structures in Transylvania, the Church on the Hill - so called because of its location on the School Hill (1,373 ft high). First mentioned in a document in 1345 and superposed on a former Roman basilica, its construction lasted almost 200 years. Initially a Catholic church, it became the main church of the Saxon inhabitants of Sighisoara, who had shifted from Roman Catholicism to Lutheranism after the 1547 Reform. The church was completely painted on the inside but in 1776, the majority of the old murals were destroyed, provided that exact copies would be made on parchment and reproduced later. Unfortunately, the copies were lost and the murals never reproduced. A recent restoration brought back fragments of some of the original late 15th century frescoes. Inside the beautifully restored interior, you can admire fragments of *murals from 1483-1488, the period prior to Martin Luther's Reformation, and renaissance-style furniture. The gothic altarpiece dedicated to St Martin dates from 1520 and was painted by Johann Stoss, the son of the renowned sculptor, Veit Stoss from Nrnberg. The three wood-carved coats of arms, found in the anterooms of the side naves, belonged to Mathias Corvin and his wife, Beatrix, the Transylvanian prince Stephen Bathory of Nyir (1479-1493) and the king of Poland and Hungary, Wladislav the 3rd. The church is reached by a covered wooden staircase known as the Scholars' Stairs. Opposite the church is the main entrance to a serene Saxon cemetery (open daily 8:00am 8:00pm). The Scholars' Stairs Address: Piata Cetatii Located at the end of School Street and connecting the Citadel Square with the Church on the Hill, the Scholars' Stairs, or Schoolboys' Stairs, as it was also known, makes for an interesting piece of medieval architecture. Built in 1642, the covered stair-passage was meant to facilitate and protect schoolchildren and churchgoers on their climb to the school and church during wintertime. Originally, the stairs had 300 steps, but after 1849, their number was reduced to 175.

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Vlad Dracul's House (Casa Dracula) Address: Str. Cositorarilor 5 The Vlad Dracul House is located in the Citadel Square, close to the Clock Tower. This ocher-colored house is the place where Vlad Tepes, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's famous Dracula, was born in 1431 and lived with his father, Vlad Dracul, until 1435 when they moved to Targoviste. A wroughtiron dragon hangs above the entrance. The ground floor of the house serves as a restaurant, while the first floor is home to the Museum of Weapons (see museum details). Benefiting from the friendship of the Hungarian king, Sigismund I of Luxembourg, Vlad II Dracul, the father of Vlad Tepes, spent his youth at the royal court and later distinguished himself as a brave knight in the fight against the Ottoman Empire. For his deeds, the Order of the Dragon was bestowed upon him, hence the title Dracul (the Latin word for dragon is draco). While in medieval lure dragons served as symbols of independence, leadership, strength and wisdom, the biblical association of the devil with the serpent that tempted Adam and Eve, gave the snake-like dragon connotations of evil. Thus, the Romanian word Dracul stands in English for both dragon and devil. Dracula, the title of Vlad Tepes, translates as Son of Dracul. The Stag House (Casa cu Cerb) Address: Piata Cetatii Built in the 17th century in Transylvanian renaissance style, the house draws its name from the stag skull set on one of the corners of its faade. Recent restorations revealed an external mural depicting the stag's body. Nowadays, the building houses a hotel, with a ground floor that doubles as a cellar bar. The Venetian House (Casa Venetiana) Address: Piata Muzeului Built in the 16th century, the house was later restored in Venetian gothic style with the upper part of the windows forming a three-lobe arch. The Citadel Towers (Turnurile cetatii) The half-mile defense wall was initially provided with 14 towers, of which nine have been preserved to this day. Among the most impressive are: The Ropemakers' Tower (Turnul Franghierilor) Dating from the 13th century and standing above the preSaxon citadel walls, the Ropemakers' Tower is one of the oldest buildings in Sighisoara. Its role was to defend together with the Goldsmiths' Tower - the northwest corner of the hill. Nowadays, the tower is the home of the caretaker of the Saxon cemetery, located next to the Church on the Hill. The Tailors' Tower (Turnul Croitorilor) This imposing tower was raised in the 14th century by the richest guild in town. Initially as tall as the Clock Tower, its upper part was destroyed in the 1676 fire, when the town's gunpowder deposits, located here, exploded. The Tailors' Tower, with its two vaulted galleries which used to have huge oaken gates with an iron lattice, also serves as the second access road into the citadel. The tower was restored in 1935. The Cobblers' Tower (Turnul Cizmarilor) The Cobblers' Tower, located in the northeastern part of the town, was first mentioned in documents dating from the mid-16th century but it was rebuilt from scratch in 1650. The tower

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bears the influence of baroque architecture, featuring a hexagonal base with sides of different lengths. Its roof, resembling a pointy helmet, houses a small observation tower. Hermann Oberth Square was named after Hermann Oberth (1894-1989), one of the forefathers of astronautics and rocketry. He was born in Sibiu and raised in Sighisoara. The Lower Town (Orasul de Jos) Lack of water and supplies made life in the Citadel quite difficult at times. By comparison, living conditions in the Lower Town, which had started to develop at end of the 15th century, were much better. Today, the Lower Town, less picturesque than the Citadel area, centers around Hermann Oberth Square (Piata Herman Oberth) and Strada 1 Decembrie. Here, you can admire 17th century houses. Historic Churches Lepers' Church (Biserica Leprosilor) Address: Str. Stefan cel Mare 34 Located in the Lower Town on the Tarva River bank, this small 15th century gothic church served as the lepers' asylum chapel between 1647 and 1684. Since the lepers were not allowed to enter the church, an outer pulpit was installed from which the Gospel was preached to the sick. Orthodox Cathedral (Catedrala Ortodoxa) This cathedral, built in Byzantine style between 1934 and 1937 and beautifully painted in black and white, is located on the northern shore of Tarnava Mare and is accessible by a footbridge. St. Joseph Roman-Catholic Church (Biserica Romano-Catolica Sf. Iosif) Address: Str. Zidul Cetatii Built in an eclectic style in 1894, the church underwent major restorations after a fire in 1983. The present organ, designed by Karl Einschenk in 1908, was brought from a Saxon church near Sighisoara. Orthodox Church from Cornesti (Biserica Ortodoxa din Cornesti) Erected in neoclassical style between 1788 and 1797, this is the first Romanian Orthodox church made of stone in the region. The bell, a liturgical veil and a golden goblet from the 18th century have been preserved.

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CRAIOVA [krayova] City Highlights The university town of Craiova, founded on the site of the Dacian stronghold Pelendava (which later became the Roman Castra Nova), prides itself on the strong academic tradition and wealth of important historical figures who passed through here on their journey to fame: Wallachian Prince Mihai Viteazu - who served as the ban (military governor) of Craiova and achieved the first unification of the three Romanian principalities in 1600, the world-famous sculptor Constantin Brancusi - who studied at the Craiova Art School (Scola de Arte si Meserii) between 1894 - 1898 and carved his first sculptures here, and Craiova-born Petrache Poenary (1799- 1875) - inventor of the first cartridge fountain pen. Interesting fact: The majority of train locomotives in Romania originated at the Electroputere workshops in Craiova. In 1913, the treaty of peace which ended the Balkan War, treaty known in history as The Peace from Craiova, was signed here. The bans had the right of coining money stamped with their own effigies, hence the name of bani (centimes) in Romanian language.

City Landmarks The city hosts a great number of religious buildings, many of them dating back to medieval times. The Church of Cosuna Monastery for example is the oldest building preserved in Craiova, dating from the 15th century. You can spend a relaxing afternoon visiting the monastery, located only 2.1 miles outside of the city centre. Another religious site, Madona Dudu Church, is renowned for its mural paintings, completed by the famous Romanian painter Gheorghe Tattarescu (1818 1894). For those who want to find out more about the history and the traditions of this region we recommend a visit to the Oltenia Museum, housed in Baniei House(1699), the oldest nonreligious building that exists in Craiova and one of the oldest lay buildings in the country. Art lovers should definitely not miss the Art Museum in Craiova, hosted in the Dinu Mihail Palace, built in the early 1900s in neoclassic style by a French architect. The Museum exhibits valuable masterpieces created by famous Romanian painters, among them Craiova-born Theodor Aman (1831 - 1891) and Nicolae Grigorescu (1838 1907). One of its main attractions is the section dedicated toConstantin Brancusi, comprising six of his early sculptures. At the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century, Craiovas architecture underwent a transformation with the creation of the Brancovenesti style, a combination of Romanian traditional art, Byzantine and Venetian elements. Churches still displaying elements of the Brancovenesti style include: the Saint Ilie Church / Biserica Sfantu Ilie, built in 1720 by Ilie Oteteleseanu and the great tradesmen of the town, the All Saints Church / Biserica Tuturor Sfintilor (1700),the Old Saint Gheorghe Church / Biserica Sfantu Gheorghe Vechi (1730), the Obedeanu Monastery / Manastirea Obedeanu (1747), the Mantuleasa Church /Biserica Mantuleasa (1786), the Saint Nicolas Church / Biserica Sfantul Nicolae(1794). The Jitianu Monk Monastery, located 4.6 miles south of the city centre, was built under the guidance of Lady Balasa, wife of ruler Constantin Basarab Carnu (1654- 1658), and houses a rich collection of medieval art objects.

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For those interested in enjoying a relaxing afternoon outside, the Nicolae Romanescu Park, is a veritable green oasis. The park is one of the valuable monuments of landscape architecture in Romania. The plans for the park, designed by French architect Emile Rendont, were awarded the gold medal at the 1900 World Fair. Through the initiative of Nicolae P. Romanescu, then mayor of Craiova, work on the park began in 1901 and was completed in 1903. For the ones who want to experience the nature more scientifically, a stop at the Botanical Garden would be the best choice. Museums Craiova Art Museum Address: Str. Calea Unirii 15 (located in the Dinu Mihail Palace) Telephone: (251) 412.342 The sumptuous neobaroque palace that houses the museum was completed in 1896, following the plans of the French architect Paul Gotereau, who also built the CEC building in Bucharest. The main attraction of the museum is the art gallery dedicated to Romanian-born Constantin Brancusi, exhibiting six of his early sculptures (including variants of his best-known works): The Kiss (1907), Vitellius (1898), Woman Torso (1909), The Vainglory (1905),Boy's Head (1906), Miss Pogany (1902). Brancusis studio has been recreated in the museum. Museum of Oltenia (Etnographic Section) Address: Str. Madona Dudu 44 Tel: (251) 411.906 Email: [email protected] www.muzeulolteniei.ro Hosted in the Bania House (Casa Baniei), which is a major architectural and historical monument of Craiova you can learn anything and everything about the history of the region, starting with the prehistoric times. Great care has been taken in presenting, in full detail, the traditional trades and occupations of peasants in Oltenia, starting with hunting, fishing or gathering and ending with raising cattle, working the fields, harvesting the crops, emphasizing the continuity of the locals. The museum exhibits wooden carvings and ceramics, a large collection of jars, bowls of all kinds, plates, carpets in the style and manner used in Oltenita as well as fascinating folk costumes from Oltenita. Day Trips Targu Jiu Where: 74 miles northwest of Craiova Access: car, bus, train www.RomaniaTourism.com/Targu-Jiu.html A must for all art lovers is a visit to Targu Jiu on the banks of the River Jiu. This former market town is closely associated with Constantin Brancusi, considered by many to be the father of modern sculpture. While most of his works are on display in prestigious museums throughout the world, his trilogy of public sculptures, The Table of Silence (Masa Tacerii), The Gate of the Kiss (Poarta Sarutului) and The Endless Column (Coloana Infinitului) can be admired at the Constantin Brancusi sculptural complex in downtown Targu Jiu. Horezu Monastery & Horezu Pottery Centre Where: 96 miles north of Craiova Access: car, bus The Horezu Monastery, the largest monastic settlement in Walachia, was founded in 1690 by Prince Constantine Brancoveanu. A masterpiece of the Brancovenesti style and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Horezu is renowned for the richness of its sculptural detail, the treatment of its religious compositions and its painted decorative works. The monastery houses precious collections of frescoes and icons dating from the end of the 17th century and

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the beginning of the 18th century. The nearby village of Horezu is home to one of the biggest pottery centres in Romania. Nearly a century ago, local nuns taught the villagers how to make and paint pottery, and ever since, people have come from far and wide to get their hands on Horezu's ceramic. Curtea de Arges Where: 98 miles northeast of Craiova Access: car, train (with connection in Pitesti) Fifty miles east of Horezu you can visit another stunning architectural gem: the 16th century Curtea de Arges Monastery (Manastirea Curtea de Arges), toppled with two towers spiraling in opposite directions. Behold the sad legend of Manole as you take in its beauty. Romania's first two kings and queens are buried here. Bucureti Craiova ~ 03h19 ~ 228 km Bucureti Braov ~ 02h45 ~ 168 km Bucureti Snagov ~ 00h56 ~ 37 km Snagov Braov ~ 02h30 ~ 148 km Braov Bran ~ 00h36 ~ 31 km Braov Sighioara ~ 01h48 ~ 118 km Sighioara Bran ~ 02h17 ~ 144 km Snagov Bran ~ 02h53 ~ 151 km Bucureti Sighioara ~ 04h30 ~ 284 km Craiova Braov ~ 04h45 ~ 267 km Craiova Sighioara ~ 06h24 ~ 381 km (via Piteti) Craiova Sighioara ~ 07h05 ~ 317 km (via Sibiu) Braov Piteti ~ 02h47 ~ 140 km Bucureti Piteti ~ 01h31~ 118 km Craiova Piteti ~ 01h58 ~ 120 km

Craiova Ni ~ 04h18 ~ 246 km Craiova Sofija ~ 05h20 ~ 259 km Ni Sofija ~ 02h43 ~ 157 km Ni Bucureti ~ 07h39 ~ 475 km (E574 E81) Ni Bucureti ~ 08h43 ~ 553 km (A2 E83 via Sofija) Sofija Bucureti ~ 06h41 ~ 388 km

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