Transylvania

Transylvania is a historical region in central Romania. The name derives from Latin trans, across, and silva, forest, reflecting its traditional position beyond the Carpathian Mountains from the perspective of the Roman-era Dacian lands. The region lies largely within the Carpathian arc, with the eastern and southern ranges forming its backdrop and the western Apuseni Mountains providing a western edge. Its varied landscape includes mountains, hills, valleys, and a number of well-preserved towns and castles.

Historically, Transylvania was part of the Kingdom of Hungary from the early Middle Ages and later formed part of the Habsburg Empire and then Austria-Hungary. After World War I, it united with Romania under the Treaty of Trianon (1920). In 1940, northern Transylvania was briefly ceded to Hungary under the Second Vienna Award and returned to Romania in 1944. Today it is part of Romania and is administratively divided into several counties, encompassing a mix of urban and rural areas.

The region has a diverse population, with Romanians forming the majority and sizable Hungarian and German (Transylvanian Saxon) communities, along with Roma and other groups. Romanian, Hungarian, and German languages have historical presence, and religious life is varied, including Romanian Orthodox, Greek Catholic, Reformed, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic communities.

Transylvania is noted for its medieval towns, fortified churches, and castles, as well as natural and cultural heritage. Prominent cities include Brașov, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, Târgu Mureș, and Alba Iulia. Notable sites include Bran Castle, Corvin Castle, the historic Saxon towns’ fortified churches (a UNESCO site), Sighișoara, and the Turda Salt Mine.