Verified Facts
Official NameRomania
CapitalBucharest
Population19.0 million
Area238,391 km² (92,043 sq mi)
LanguagesRomanian
CurrencyRomanian leu (lei)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionEurope / Southeast Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Nobel Prize in Physics | Stefan Procopiu won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1933 for his work on the magnetic properties of atoms |
| Sports | Gymnastics Success | Romanian gymnasts have won numerous Olympic and World Championship medals, including Nadia Comăneci, the first person to score a perfect 10 in Olympic competition |
| Arts | Classical Music | Romania has a rich classical music tradition, with famous composers such as George Enescu and Dinu Lipatti |
| Development | Economic Growth | Romania has experienced significant economic growth since joining the EU in 2007, with a GDP growth rate of over 7% in 2020 |
| Innovation | IT and Technology | Romania has a thriving IT industry, with major companies such as Microsoft and IBM having operations in the country |
| Global Contributions | Peacekeeping Missions | Romania has contributed troops to various UN peacekeeping missions around the world, including in Afghanistan and Kosovo |
| Education | University Rankings | Several Romanian universities, such as the University of Bucharest and the Politehnica University of Bucharest, are ranked among the top in Eastern Europe |
| Environment | Protected Areas | Romania has a high percentage of protected areas, with over 20% of its territory designated as national parks or nature reserves |
Cultural Treasures
- The Merry Cemetery in Săpânța is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its colorful and intricately carved wooden crosses.
- The Brâncuși Museum in Târgu Jiu features the works of famous Romanian sculptor Constantin Brâncuși.
- The Transylvanian Folk Architecture is a unique and well-preserved example of traditional Romanian architecture.
- The Romanian Athenaeum in Bucharest is a stunning concert hall and one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
- The Sibiu International Theatre Festival is one of the largest and most prestigious theatre festivals in Europe.
People & Global Impact
- Nadia Comăneci, the famous Romanian gymnast, has inspired generations of athletes around the world with her record-breaking performances.
- Elie Wiesel, the Nobel Peace Prize winner, was a Romanian-born writer and activist who fought for human rights and against discrimination.
- Emil Racoviță, a Romanian explorer and scientist, was one of the first people to reach the South Pole and made significant contributions to the field of speleology.
- The Romanian diaspora has made significant contributions to the cultural, economic, and scientific development of countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Romanian people is often cited as one of the highlights of visiting the country, with visitors praising the warm welcomes and friendly service.
- The traditional Romanian cuisine is a favorite among visitors, with popular dishes such as sarmale, mămăligă, and ciorbă.
- The scenic landscapes of Romania, including the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea coast, offer a wide range of opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.
- The rich cultural heritage of Romania, including its many museums, historical sites, and festivals, provides a unique and enriching experience for visitors.
- The vibrant city life of Bucharest, with its many restaurants, bars, and clubs, is a popular destination for nightlife and entertainment.
- The affordability of Romania, compared to other European countries, makes it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Hidden Gems
- The Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a unique and diverse ecosystem that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna.
- The Apuseni Mountains offer a tranquil and picturesque landscape, with many opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
- The city of Sibiu, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by visitors to Romania.
- The wine region of Dealu Mare, which produces some of the country's best wines, is a great destination for wine enthusiasts and those looking to experience the countryside.