Discover 13 Traditions Only Romanian People Understand
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Loading... - Betty Simpson
- 27 Jul 2022
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Each nation has its own distinct traditions that make it unique among the many fascinating cultures of the world. Romania also has its share. Many of its traditions go back to the superstitious and religious rural world. Some are so bizarre and funny that only Romanian people can understand them.
Here’s our list of 13 of the most original Romanian traditions.
1. Boboteaza and dreaming of prince charming
Single women all around the world can now relax about their future love life. All they have to do is put some basil under their pillow on January 6, and they will meet their prince charming. This night marks the baptism of Jesus, a popular celebration in the Orthodox Calendar.
2. Swimming in frozen waters after a cross
On the same day of Boboteaza, January 6, men get to prove their courage or lack of judgment for that matter. They swim in the freezing waters of local rivers and lakes to bring back to shore a wooden cross Orthodox priests threw as far as possible. This is the Romanian way to celebrate the baptism of Jesus, which we’re pretty sure took place in warmer waters.
3. Babele or a year in a day
Romanian people like to know what’s in store for them in the new year. One of the fun traditions that give them a preview is Babele. They know how the rest of the year will be depending on the weather conditions during a single day.
The great news is you get to choose your day, from March 1st to March 9. Of course, you shouldn’t cheat and check the weather channel before.
4. Mucenici or eating ‘saints’
A delicious tradition we enjoy a lot is ironically related to the death of 40 Christian soldiers in ancient Armenia thousands of years ago. Baked in the shape of the number eight, mucenici or sfinti are made of sweet dough with a honey and nut topping. These yummy sweets symbolize the sacrifice of the 40 soldiers. Weird, right?
There’s more. While women do the baking, according to the same tradition, men can get drunk as they’re supposed to drink 40 to 44 shots of rachiu. If you think this tradition is gender-biased, you’re right. Read More…
