Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions to experience at least once in a lifetime + 10 amazing churches and monasteries around Romania

Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions 

Here, Easter is the most important Christian holiday and is celebrated according to church canons, with various customs and traditions, which can vary from one region to another. Besides the unique traditions, the country is also a fascinating destination for the Easter celebration, which takes place in the middle of spring. In Romania, you can find places with impressive architecture and unique landscapes. And the stories that accompany these gems are surrounded by the allure of a fairy tale world, stories that will make you smile, even after your holiday is over.

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Easter Romania: traditions with a rich and fascinating culture

Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions 

Although modern influences have been introduced, the traditions related to the Easter holidays are still strongly anchored in Romanian culture. Before Easter, Christians celebrate the Great Lent, which has the role of preparing them spiritually and physically to receive the Light of the Lord’s Resurrection. Here are a few of the most unique traditions and customs, which most tourists find fascinating:

People prepare to celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord through abstinence and prayer. Lent usually begins around February and lasts 40 days until Easter. During this fast, believers abstain from meat, dairy, and other foods considered luxurious, as well as from pleasurable activities such as music and dancing. They focus on prayer, spiritual reflection, and meditation.

The slaughtering of the lamb is another important custom that takes place on Easter morning, which is then cooked with traditional recipes and enjoyed by family and friends who gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the values of family and unity. 

Dyeing Easter eggs is one of the most famous customs that take place in Romania. This custom has a deep spiritual and cultural significance, related to the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the celebration of spring. Eggs in bright colors are a symbol of rebirth and hope in the life to come; the favorite color is red, but many Christians choose others, such as blue, green, or yellow. This custom is usually carried out in the days leading up to the holiday, and they are often used as a symbol of peace and love in a traditional game where people tap their eggs with each other.

The Holy Liturgy – Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions 

The Holy Liturgy is an important moment on Easter morning when the faithful gather at the church to take part in this important service. It marks the resurrection of Jesus and is a sacred time of the year. The service is performed with joy and devotion, and worshipers are encouraged to focus on the resurrection and pray for peace and health. 

Children are often the protagonists of the Easter evening, going from door to door to carol and singing Easter songs. This traditional custom gives the children an opportunity to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and bring joy to the community. In some areas of Romania, children are rewarded with sweets or money for their efforts. 

After the Holy Liturgy, families gather at the table to celebrate together. The Easter meal is an important time to enjoy traditional food, including red eggs, Easter bread, and lamb or chicken. This time of eating and socializing together is an opportunity to celebrate the resurrection and bring joy to the family. 

On Easter day – Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

On this special day, many believers go to the cemetery to pray and bring flowers to the graves of their loved ones. It is a way to honor the memory of those who have departed and mark the resurrection of Jesus through prayer and thanksgiving. The traditional Easter dishes in Romania include

• Red Eggs: These are boiled and dyed eggs, colored with a special solution made from bay leaves, onion skins, or store-bought. This process is an old tradition and symbolizes the sacrifice of the Lord. Eggs are an essential symbol of the holiday, and they are often exchanged between family members and friends as a sign of love and peace. 

• Pasca: Pasca is a type of cheesecake, made from sheep’s or goat’s milk. They can be formed into various shapes, such as a plate or a triangle, and they can be decorated with raisins, mint leaves, or other ingredients. 
• Cozonac is a type of sweet bread made with cocoa, walnuts, sugar, and spices. It is made by mixing the ingredients and then baking them in a round or rectangular shape. The cake is then sliced and served as a dessert.
  

• Roasted Lamb stew is a traditional dish and consists of roast lamb baked with mixed greens; it has a strong flavor and a juicy texture, and it’s served with polenta or potatoes. The meat is cut into large pieces and boiled together with the vegetables and spices until it softens and browns.

Beautiful traditions and symbols

Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

All of these common customs symbolize service, humility, joy, sacrifice, sharing, and gratitude and are cherished for generations. Furthermore, there are also some interesting traditions, which differ depending on the region they come from:

Egg tapping – Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

• According to popular beliefs, the first egg hatched on Easter should be eaten by all family members in order to always be together. Also, it is said that people who knock painted eggs on the first day of Easter will meet and be together after death. The first person who taps the egg will say “Christ has resurrected!” (in Romanian, “Hristos a înviat”), while the second one responds “Indeed, he has resurrected!” (in Romanian, “Adevarat a înviat!”).  If you crack an egg with two yolks on the first day of Easter, it is said to mean that you will get married soon, according to an old folk belief. Also, there is this beautiful tradition kept for generations according to which egg shells are emptied and then painted in various patterns and decorated with colorful beads. 

• People all over Romania like to join one of the funniest Romanian traditions and celebrations, known as “tapping the egg”, where two people should take a dyed egg each and tap it to see which one is the strongest; whoever’s eggs won’t crack will have the best luck and health that year. The people of Bucovina tap boiled eggs “head to head” on the first day of Easter and only from the second day, it’s the time they do it “back to back”. In some villages in Moldova, it is said that the person with the unbroken egg at Easter will die before the others, but if you break the egg, you will be strong all year.

Moldavian specific traditions

• In several villages in Moldova, there is a tradition that requires people to wash their faces with water from a bowl in which flowers, money, and a red egg have been placed. It is believed that in this way they will become Romanians like the red egg, rich and healthy. According to the same custom, the last person who washes in this vessel will take the money.  

While in Bucovina

• In Bucovina, young girls go to church on the night of the Resurrection and wash the tongue of the bell with fresh water. It is believed that this will make them more attractive to village boys. In several areas of Moldova, people put a red and a white egg in a bowl of water. Then they wash with that water and put the two eggs on their cheeks, leaving a coin in the dish. Those who do this will have ruddy cheeks and soft skin all year round.

It is well known that traditions and customs vary from one region to another, but the importance of the holiday remains the same: purification, resurrection, and the joy of being together with loved ones!

When is Easter in Romania?

Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

How do we know when Easter is every year? Easter has a variable date and can fall between April 4 and May 8, changing by about 14-15 days from year to year. In the last 20 years, it has been celebrated on April 16 times and on May 4 times. In the last 80 years, the earliest fell in 2010, on April 4, and the latest in 1983, on May 8, the cycle repeating itself only in 2078. 

For the next 20 years, 2023-2042, Easter will fall 16 times in April and only 4 times in May, thus: 

2023 – April 16, 2024 – May 5, 2025 – April 20, 2026 – April 12, 2027 – May 2.

Romania Easter – Unique destinations to see in a lifetime

Romania is full of impressive churches and monasteries, each with its own unique characteristics and exciting history. From the vivid frescoes in Voroneț to the beauty of the Fortified Church of Biertan, these locations are some of the most amazing places in Romania and a must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts. Each of these places will be offering a unique and memorable experience for visitors, highlighting Romania’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

Churches & cathedrals – Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

Brasov & Sibiu counties

• The Black Church in Brașov: An impressive place with a deep history rooted in the 14th century, the Black Church is distinguished by its dark black facade and Gothic architecture. The interior is stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows and sculptures and a tall tower that offers impressive panoramas of the city of Brasov. 

• Fortified Church of Biertan: An architectural gem dating back to the 15th century, the Fortified Church of Biertan stands out for its imposing fortifications and the interior decorated with frescoes and other sacerdotal art. Its towers offer panoramic views of the neighboring villages. 

Sighisoara, Cluj & Bucharest counties

• Holy Trinity Church in Sighisoara: This delightful church, built in the 15th century, is distinguished by its Renaissance architecture and elaborate altar. An oasis of peace and tranquility in the heart of Sighisoara, the church offers tourists an authentic and cultural experience.

• The Kretulescu Church in Bucharest is an impressive Gothic church, built between 1720 and 1722. This church served as a spiritual center for the Bucharest community and was one of the first churches built in the city. Its unique architecture, with Gothic and Baroque elements, attracts tourists and locals alike. The Kretulescu Church is an important point for tourists visiting Bucharest and for those interested in the religious history of Romania. The church is also known for its impressive sound organ and the classical music concerts that take place on its premises.

• The Orthodox Cathedral of Cluj is one of the most impressive churches in Romania, located in the city of Cluj-Napoca. Built in neo-Byzantine style, this building impresses with its size and the beauty of its architectural details. The interior is decorated with frescoes and mosaics that add a deep spiritual dimension to this holy place. In addition, the excellent acoustics of the cathedral make religious services a particularly spiritual and emotional moment for those who participate. If you are in Cluj-Napoca or you are looking for a special place to connect with the Orthodox culture and spirituality, this church in Cluj is definitely worth a visit!

Monasteries – Easter in Romania – Beautiful traditions

Suceava County

• Voroneț is a monastery in southeastern Romania, located in Suceava County, and is known for its exterior murals, which are considered one of the best expressions of Byzantine art in Romania. The Voronet Monastery was built in 1488 by the Moldavian voivode Stephen the Great and is known as the “Sistine Chapel of Romania” due to its impressive paintings. They include scenes from the Bible, angels, saints, and other images of a spiritual character. Tourists can also admire the vividly colored frescoes, which have endured so well that they are considered a true marvel of architecture and sacred art.

• Sucevita Monastery is located in northern Romania, Suceava county. It is famous for the impressive frescoes that cover the walls of the church, in the style of Byzantine wall painting. They are considered among the best preserved in Southeastern Europe and are recognized for their sophisticated details and vibrant colors. It is one of the main tourist attractions in the area and offers people the opportunity to connect with the history and culture of this region. If you are looking for a place full of history and spiritual beauty, the Sucevita Monastery is a destination worth visiting!

Valcea & Bucharest counties

• Cozia Monastery is located in Valcea County, in the Cozia Mountains, and is one of the oldest monasteries in our country, having been built in the 14th century. It is known for its impressive architecture and interior frescoes, which are an example of Byzantine art. Cozia Monastery is located in a unique natural setting, with spectacular mountain scenery and rivers nearby. The monastery also houses a library of old and valuable books as well as heritage items that visitors can admire. If you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the peace and beauty of nature, Cozia Monastery is one of the dream destinations in Romania.

• The Stavropoleos Monastery is an Orthodox monastery located in the center of Bucharest, dating from the 18th century. It is known for its traditional architecture, which combines elements of the Brancoven style with Byzantine and Venetian influences. The monastery is an important place for the Orthodox community in Bucharest and is frequented by pilgrims and visitors who want to spiritually recreate and admire the architectural beauty. In addition, this monastery offers an interesting contrast to the hustle and bustle of the center of Bucharest, offering an oasis of tranquility and peace. 

Bonus – an incredible gem

• The Merry Cemetery in Sapanta is a unique and impressive place in Romania. It is known for decorative crosses and funny epitaphs, which were created by the local artist Stan Ioan Pătraș. Several of these are carved with colorful images such as animals, flowers, or scenes from everyday life, providing an unexpected contrast to the traditional seriousness of a cemetery. The small church inside the cemetery is also a real wonder. It has walls painted with religious and historical scenes as well as colorful frescoes. The church provides a soothing and enchanting environment for visitors who can enjoy the peace and beauty of this place. In addition to these, the area around the cemetery is also beautiful and offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring.

These are just a few of the impressive churches in Romania, each with its own unique history and style. A visit to these churches gives tourists the opportunity to connect with the history and culture of this country and experience people and places full of spirituality.

Are you still looking for interesting locations to visit for Easter? Discover more amazing options on Framey and get inspired for your next adventure!

In conclusion, Romania offers a lot of delightful destinations, both for tourists who love nature and for those interested in history and culture. Whether it’s impressive mountains, majestic castles, or old churches, Romania has something for everyone. And when it comes to the Easter holidays, this country can be a true paradise for those who love traditions and an authentic atmosphere. From live music to traditional food and colorful decorations, the Easter holidays are a unique moment to discover and enjoy the beauty of this country.

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