Iași

Iași is a city that holds great historical and cultural significance in Romania. As the largest city in eastern Romania and the former capital of Moldavia, it has been a center of academic, cultural, and artistic life for centuries. The Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, founded in 1860, was the first modern university in Romania, and continues to draw students from across the country and beyond.

The city's architecture tells its own story, with a mix of medieval, neoclassical, and modernist influences. Palace of Culture stands tall as an iconic symbol of Iași, housing four museums inside its grand walls. The Metropolitan Cathedral and the Three Hierarchs Monastery showcase impressive Orthodox religious art and architecture. Copou Park, with its ancient linden tree said to have inspired the famous poet Mihai Eminescu, offers a peaceful retreat from the urban bustle.

Iași's vibrant cafe culture and bustling streets reflect its position as a university town. Locals enjoy the mix of traditional Romanian cuisine and modern dining options throughout the city. The annual International Festival of Literature and Translation draws writers from around the world, highlighting the city's ongoing cultural importance.

Walking through Iași feels like moving through different eras of Romanian history, from its medieval beginnings through its golden age in the 19th century to today's modern European city. Despite not being on every tourist's Romanian itinerary, those who visit discover a place rich in history, culture, and authenticity.