What is Transylvania?

Transylvania (Romanian: Transilvania; Hungarian: Erdély; German: Siebenbürgen) is a historical region located in central Romania. It is bordered by the Carpathian Mountains to the east, south and west, and by the Apuseni Mountains to the northwest. Transylvania has a rich history and culture, and is known for its castles, churches and medieval towns.

Geography

Transylvania covers an area of around 57,000 square kilometres (22,000 square miles). It is divided into two main regions by the Transylvanian Alps:

- The Western Plateau, which is a region of rolling hills and mountains.

- The Transylvanian Basin, which is a large, flat plain.

The climate of Transylvania is continental, with hot summers and cold winters. The average temperature in January is -2°C (28°F), while the average temperature in July is 22°C (71°F).

Population

The population of Transylvania is around 7 million people. The largest ethnic group is the Romanians, who make up around 75% of the population. Other ethnic groups include Hungarians, Germans, Roma and Ukrainians.

History

Transylvania was first settled by the Dacians in the 1st century BC. The Dacians were conquered by the Romans in 106 AD, and Transylvania became a province of the Roman Empire. The Roman Empire withdrew from Transylvania in 271 AD, and the region was subsequently invaded by the Goths, Huns and Avars.

In the 9th century, Transylvania was conquered by the Magyars, who established the Kingdom of Hungary. Transylvania remained part of Hungary until 1526, when it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans were driven out of Transylvania in 1699, and the region became part of the Habsburg Empire.

In 1867, Transylvania became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The Austro-Hungarian Empire collapsed in 1918, and Transylvania became part of Romania.

Culture

Transylvania is a region with a rich culture and history. The region is known for its castles, churches and medieval towns. Some of the most famous tourist destinations in Transylvania include:

- Bran Castle, which is said to be the home of Count Dracula.

- Peles Castle, which was built by King Carol I of Romania.

- The Church of St. Michael, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

- The city of Sibiu, which was the European Capital of Culture in 2007.

Transylvania is also a region with a strong culinary tradition. Some of the most famous Transylvanian dishes include:

- Sarmale, which are stuffed cabbage rolls.

- Gulas, which is a beef stew.

- Mămăligă, which is a cornmeal mush.

- Kürtőskalács, which is a sweet pastry.