Project Description
The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration
This is a once-in-a-year event, organized on 21st of June to celebrate the Romanian festival of Sanziene and IA DAY – The Universal Day of the Romanian Blouse.
We propose seven days full of magic, mystery and old traditions, ancient traditions in Romania – Sanziene celebration.
Why – The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration?
In Romania, people keep in the rural areas, in those villages where time has patience and the new world can not find its place, old traditions and immortal stories. Sanziene celebration is one of those. In correlation with the symbolism of this festive occasion, we propose you a series of unique experiences in Romania.
What is so special about this seven days experience, Sanziene celebration?
- Journey back to Dacian times as you celebrate Sanziene in a village, experiencing centuries-old traditions. Indulge in delicious traditional cuisine, don old-fashioned attire, and partake in traditional dances and rituals.
- Gain insights into countryside life, witnessing the care of animals, the cultivation of the land, and the intertwining of Romanian culture with the forest.
- Explore ancient crafts like pottery and sculpture, learning how they shape the identity of the people.
- Marvel at the natural beauty of landscapes where Romanian villages seamlessly blend with nature, preserving its pristine allure.
- Indulge in organic, traditional food, reveling in Romania’s reputation as the ‘Garden of the Virgin.’
- Experience a rich cultural journey, exploring not just villages but also the Romania of kings and rulers. Visit royal courts, castles, citadels, and rulers’ hermitages.
- Most importantly, connect with the warmth and joy of everyday people, step into their homes, and witness the charm of living in harmony with nature and time. Gain access to the authentic soul of Romania.
Where – The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration?
We recommend that you attend the celebration in Corbi Village.
Fairy tale places
Bucharest, Curtea de Arges town (the Royal Court, Curtea de Arges Monastery), Corbi village, Corbii de Piatra Monastery, Dracula’s Fortress (Poienari Fortress), Vidraru Lake and Dam, Stan’s Valley, Horezu area (Horezu pottery), Hurezi Hermitage, Polovragi Hermitage, Bistrita Hermitage, Polovragi Cave, the Mausoleum of Mateias, Rucar-Bran passage, Magura traditional area, Poiana Brasov ski resort, Brasov city, Peles Castle.
When – The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration?
Around 21st of June.
Description – The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration
In Romania, we celebrate Sanziene, a special occasion full of meaning and purity, marking the midpoint of the solar year.
On the mystical night of Sanziene, when the heavens open, ethereal beings known as Sanziene emerge, embodying the essence of the Sun, Beauty, and Love. This celebration, rich in solar motifs dating back to times before the Christian era, coincides with the summer solstice—a pivotal point in the solar calendar. This alignment is further emphasized by its proximity to the Christian celebration of John the Baptist’s Birth, occurring six months after Christ’s birth.
Sanziene is not just a festivity; it is an ode to life—a jubilation of happiness, beauty, hope, and the intricate balance between the sacred and the profane. As the day unfolds in traditional villages, girls gather Sanziene Flowers, while the night sees young boys twirling lit torches, symbolically warding off evil spirits and ushering in an abundance of wealth and happiness.
You will see all these mysteries and many more in Corbi village from Arges county.
We propose a daily schedule – The fairy tale Romania – Sanziene celebration
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Day 1
Start your day by arriving in the vibrant city of Bucharest, Romania’s capital. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Bucharest with a self-guided tour. Explore iconic landmarks, stroll through historic neighborhoods, and discover the charm of this captivating city.
In the afternoon, head towards Arges county, making your way to the beautiful Corbi village. Settle into a cozy accommodation in Corbi, nestled in a natural environment. Experience the tranquility of a village that has stood the test of time for thousands of years. Indulge in a traditional evening meal featuring dishes unique to the region. Savor the flavors of organic ingredients, providing an authentic taste of Romanian culinary delights.
After dinner, engage in captivating stories about Sanziene, delving into the significance and implications of this celebrated folklore. Learn about these benevolent mythical beings, known as Dragaice, who bestow fertility upon crops, married women, birds, and animals. Discover their role in infusing flowers with magical powers, healing ailments, and safeguarding crops from the elements. Gain insights into the universal presence of such mythical creatures across diverse folklores worldwide. Mythical beings like Sanziene exist under various names in the folklore of nations worldwide, extending beyond Europe to all continents.
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Day 2
For the second day we recommend that you make a trip to explore the cultural richness of the Horezu region. This self-guided itinerary offers a delightful journey through historical landmarks and traditional crafts.
Start your day by traveling through picturesque landscapes from Corbi to Horezu, passing through notable towns like Curtea de Arges and Ramnicu Valcea. Begin your exploration at Hurezi Hermitage, closely tied to Constantin Brancoveanu, a Wallachian ruler whose contributions enriched the national heritage. Marvel at the distinctive Brancovenesc architectural style, a hallmark of Romanian identity.
Discover the enchanting Polovragi Hermitage and the nearby Polovragi Cave, each with its unique allure and historical significance. Visit the Bistrita Monastery, adding to the cultural tapestry of the region. Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-listed Horezu pottery, celebrated for its intricate patterns, vibrant hues, and unique production technique. Hare you can attend a traditional workshop, trying your hand at this exceptional craft. You can have a delicious lunch in the Horezu area, savoring local flavors and culinary tradition.
Explore the cultural significance of Horezu pottery, deeply rooted in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists. Uncover the symbolism of solar motifs woven into this craft, drawing correlations between Romanian folklore, Sanziene celebration, and the approaching summer solstice. As you wander through these culturally rich sites, absorb the essence of the longest day of the year, marked by the spirit of fire and the radiant Sun.
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Day 3
Begin your day with a visit to Curtea de Arges town, the first capital city of Wallachia, exploring significant landmarks such as Curtea de Arges Monastery, an architectural masterpiece built by Master Manole, and learn about the fascinating creational myth and the tragic tale of Ana, the master’s wife buried alive within the church walls. Continue your journey to Stan’s Valley, home to Dracula’s Fortress where you can venture to Dracula’s Fortress, ascending 1400 steps to revel in the breathtaking beauty of the Carpathians’ nature. Experience a short trip through an area of unique beauty, appreciating the natural wonders. Enjoy lunch in the fortress area at Vidraru House, savoring local flavors amidst the historic surroundings.
Conclude your day with a delightful dinner back in Corbi, allowing you to relish the local ambiance. Here, delve deeper into the connection between nature and Romanian traditions, particularly the Sanziene celebration. Learn about the mystical properties attributed to the Sanziana flower, which blooms around the summer solstice. Discover its uses in medicine and cosmetics, as well as its role in Romanian mythology. Uncover the enchanting customs associated with Sanziene, such as placing the flower under the pillow for prophetic dreams, adorning hair or attire for increased attractiveness, and utilizing the dew for enhanced beauty. Embrace the folklore that weaves nature’s wonders into the cultural fabric of Romania.
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Day 4
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Day 5
Embark on a captivating exploration through the picturesque landscapes of Rucar-Bran, a true wonder in the heart of Romania. The day unfolds with a scenic route from Corbi to Campulung, leading you to hidden gems that define the region’s charm.
Begin your journey with a visit to the Mausoleum in Mateias, a poignant testament to historical narratives. Delve into the mysteries of Dambovicioara Cave, where nature’s wonders unfold in a mesmerizing underground spectacle. As you traverse the scenic route to Magura, revel in the breathtaking vistas that grace the surroundings.
Lunch is a delightful affair in the enchanting Rucar-Dambovicioara area, offering a taste of local flavors amidst nature’s embrace. The day concludes with a dinner in the idyllic village of Magura, where the warmth of the community complements the natural beauty that surrounds.
In the vast expanse of Rucar-Bran, discover a piece of heaven on earth—a passage adorned with valleys, depressions, and embraced by two majestic mountain ridges. This journey promises not just scenic beauty, but an immersive experience into the heart of Romania’s natural wonders.
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Day 6
Discover Romania’s medieval history and royal heritage in a day filled with enchantment. Begin your journey at the legendary Bran Castle, known for its association with Vlad Tepes (Dracula). Uncover historical tales and immerse yourself in the castle’s mystique.
Next, explore Rasnov Citadel, a medieval fortress, and soak in the historical charm of Brasov city. The day culminates with a visit to Peles Castle, a royal masterpiece. Experience the grandeur of regal halls and timeless elegance, making this tour a captivating journey through Romania’s medieval and royal wonders.
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Day 7
As the seventh day ends, you might feel a bit sad, but we see it as the start of something new. It’s the moment you realize you had a special time, bringing you peace and joy. This day lays the groundwork for a lasting connection with these places, inviting you to return and discover more. In essence, it’s the beginning of many future visits.
I am delighted to read about this tour. I am a storyteller in New York, with roots in Romania. I spent many years working in Moldavia and collecting great fairytales. Would you ever be interested in my joining the group as a leader with storytelling, journaling and information about Romanian tales and how they were told (in English for tourists). You can read about my work on my website: http://www.laurasimms.com I have led tours in Nepal, Mexico, New Zealand, and places in Europe.