When in Romania, Bucharest, the capital city, is usually a tourist’s first choice to visit. But few have explored Sibiu, a small town in Transylvania that became famous because of a Dracula! The place is associated with the beast due to the influence of Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula and its later film adaptations and extensions.
Sibiu, a time warp
Sibiu exploration began on a bright summer day through a picturesque mountainous terrain. Right in the centre of the country, Sibiu is surrounded by mountains. The first thing you notice about this place is its powerful architecture and stone structures. It is a powerful fortified city with 39 defensive towers. Having stood the test of time, they look imposing enough even today.
I started my journey from the Large Square (a town centre of sorts) and walked over the narrow cobbled streets while gazing at medieval walls and buildings. The walk takes you through a time warp, transporting you to the 14 century.
A few blocks away from the medieval structures, I came across the Art Mania Festival where a live band comprising a bunch of happy people sang and danced without a care in the world. It’s an annual event from what I was told by the locals. But that’s not all. Sibui also celebrates Jazz Festival, International Theatre Festival, International Film Festival and Tattoos Festival.
Foodie trails
All of that walking and dancing built up quite an appetite and I headed for an authentic Romanian treat. The locals are traditionally red meat lovers — with clear affiliation towards pork and beef. But the choices are not restricted. There are enough vegetarian varieties available too. Besides that, there are many restaurants serving popular options like Mexican, Greek and Italian cuisines. The meal turned out to a be sumptuous one and a good enough energiser to tour our next spot — the Brukenthal Museum.
Historic significance
Well endowed with historical artefacts from various centuries, this place is a must-visit. This East European town has a strong Roman Catholic presence and there are many beautiful churches spread all across it. We made sure to stop by the Metropolitan Cathedral — the architectural beauty of this grand edifice is worth admiring. And then there is the Lies Bridge on the Small Square. According to the natives, lovers used to flock to the bridge to pledge their vows. Another funny story goes that if you lie standing on the bridge it will fall — thus the name.
A true culture capital
The next morning was reserved for a drive to the Museum Park which lies on the outskirts of Sibiu town. Museum Park is really huge and laden with so much tradition and beauty that missing any of it is not a good idea. There is a big lake in the middle of it and the entire park is decorated with a variety of quaint little houses. Each one has its own story about the people who lived there centuries ago. There is a restaurant perched on a terrace offering a breathtaking view of the park and a traditional Sibian meal on the table.
What adds to the beauty of the place is the warmth of the locals. The comfort level it offers to a stranger explains its popularity. Sibians are courteous and ever ready to help. A local happily shared that last year, Salman Khan was here shooting for his movie, Jai Ho. If you are in Europe, take some out for Sibiu. It is a little traditional, and an interesting cocktail of mystery, historic and modern creation of art and culture. Little wonder then, that Sibiu was certified as European Capital of Culture in 2007.
The writer is an accessories designer who loves exploring new places
