Romaniatian

Romaniatian is a portmanteau of the words Romania and Italian, referring to the Italian community and culture in Romania. The presence of Italians in Romania dates back to the 19th century, with significant waves of immigration occurring in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the period of Romanian unification. These Italians were primarily from the southern regions of Italy, such as Apulia, Calabria, and Sicily.

The Romaniatian community is concentrated in the western part of Romania, particularly in the counties of Timiș, Arad, Caraș-Severin, and Olt. They have made significant contributions to various sectors of Romanian society, including agriculture, commerce, and culture. Romaniatian cuisine, known as "cucina romanescă," is a blend of Italian and Romanian culinary traditions, featuring dishes such as mici (small meatballs), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and tiramisu.

The Romaniatian community has its own cultural institutions, such as the Romaniatian Cultural Center in Timișoara, which promotes Italian language and culture. They also have their own religious institutions, including the Romaniatian Catholic Church, which is part of the Italian Catholic Church.

Despite facing challenges such as language barriers and cultural assimilation, the Romaniatian community has managed to preserve its unique identity and contribute to the cultural diversity of Romania. Today, Romaniatians are an integral part of Romania's multicultural society, enriching it with their heritage, traditions, and contributions.