Romania

Romania is a country rich in history and culture, located at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. It shares borders with Ukraine, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Moldova, and the Black Sea. With a diverse terrain that includes the Carpathian Mountains, the Danube River, and the Black Sea coastline, Romania offers a variety of landscapes and experiences. The nation's capital, Bucharest, is the largest city, known for its iconic Palace of the Parliament, which is one of the heaviest and largest buildings in the world. Romania's population is over 19 million, making it the twelfth-largest country in Europe and the sixth-most populous member state of the European Union. The Romanian language, a Romance language, reflects the country's Latin heritage and its cultural ties to ancient Rome. Romania has a rich folk culture that is expressed in its vibrant traditional dances, music, costumes, and festivals. The country is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the painted monasteries of Bukovina, the wooden churches of Maramureș, and the ancient Dacian fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains. Romania's economy is diverse, with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. It is also known for its production of wines and for having one of the largest areas of virgin forests in Europe. The country has seen significant changes in its political and social structures, transitioning from a communist regime that ended in 1989 to a democratic government and becoming a member of NATO in 2004 and the European Union in 2007. This journey reflects Romania's ongoing commitment to growth and integration within the global community.