Romania Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Romania, state of south-eastern Europe; 237,500 km², 19.5 million residents (2019).Romania borders in the north to Ukraine, in the northeast to Moldova, in the south to Bulgaria, in the southwest to Serbia and in the northwest to Hungary. The capital is Bucharest (1.9 million residents, 2012).

Country facts

Republica România / Romania
Country abbreviation: RO
Area: 237 500 km²
Population (2019): 19.5 million residents
Capital: Bucharest
Main language: Romanian
State: Republic
Head of State: Klaus Iohannis (President)
Head of Government: Ludovic Orban
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 12,301
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 11 290
Currency unit: 1 leu = 100 bani
Currency code: ROL
Country number (telephony): 40
Internet domain name: ro
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: December 1 (Union Day Romania-Transylvania, 1918)

Nature

Land use: forest (26%), agricultural land (65%), other (9%)
Highest mountain: Moldoveanu (2,543 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 82 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): –0.3%; birth number 9 ‰, death number 12 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (16%), 15-64 (66%), 65- (18%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 72 years, women 79 years
Infant mortality (2019): 6 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 23 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.811 (place 52 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 54%
Most populous cities (2012): Bucharest (1.9 million residents), Cluj-Napoca (324,600), Constanţa (283,900)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (4%), industry (33%), service (63%)
Exports (2017): US $ 64,580 million
Main export products: machinery, metal, metal products, textiles
Main exporting countries: Germany, Italy, France
Imports (2017): US $ 78 120 million
Main import products: machinery, chemicals, agricultural products
Main importing countries: Germany, Italy, Hungary
Railway network (2014): 10 300 km

Geography of Romania

Location and Size

Romania is located in Southeastern Europe, bordered by Ukraine to the north, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, Bulgaria to the south, the Black Sea to the southeast, and Moldova to the east. It covers an area of approximately 238,397 square kilometers, making it the 12th largest country in Europe. The country’s geographical position at the crossroads of Eastern and Central Europe gives it a rich diversity of landscapes, climates, and cultural influences. Its capital and largest city is Bucharest, located in the southern part of the country.

Romania is divided into several distinct regions: Transylvania, Wallachia, Moldavia, Dobruja, and the Banat, each with unique historical, cultural, and geographical features. The Carpathian Mountains dominate the center of the country, while the Danube River forms much of its southern border. The country also has a varied coastline along the Black Sea, with the Danube Delta being one of the most biodiverse regions in Europe.

Topography and Natural Features

Romania’s diverse topography consists of mountains, hills, plains, and rivers. The Carpathian Mountains are the country’s most prominent feature, extending through the central part of Romania. These mountains are home to the highest peak in Romania, Moldoveanu Peak, which rises to 2,544 meters (8,343 feet) above sea level. The Carpathians are rich in wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and lynx, and are popular for hiking and skiing. The Transylvanian Plateau, nestled between the Carpathians and the Apuseni Mountains, is known for its rolling hills, forests, and traditional villages.

To the south, the Wallachian Plain and the Danube River valley make up Romania’s fertile agricultural regions. The Danube River is a vital waterway that flows through several countries in Europe, and its delta, located in Romania, is one of the largest and best-preserved in Europe, home to numerous species of birds, fish, and plants.

Romania also has a stretch of coastline along the Black Sea, known for its resorts and beaches, with Constanța being the largest port city. The Danube Delta, which is located in the southeastern part of the country, is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its ecological significance and biodiversity.

Climate of Romania

Continental Climate

Romania has a continental climate, which means it experiences four distinct seasons: cold winters, hot summers, and transitional seasons of spring and autumn. The climate can vary considerably depending on the region, with the mountains experiencing cooler temperatures and more precipitation, while the plains in the south and southeast are warmer and drier.

Summer and Winter Conditions

Summers in Romania, especially in the southern and eastern regions, are hot, with temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher. In the capital, Bucharest, and other lowland areas, the summer heat can be intense, often accompanied by humidity. However, the mountainous regions are much cooler in summer and provide a popular retreat for both locals and tourists seeking relief from the heat.

Winter temperatures in Romania can be harsh, especially in the mountainous regions and the northern parts of the country. Average temperatures in winter can drop below freezing, and snowfall is common in the mountains and even in the plains. Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Brașov experience milder winter conditions, with temperatures often hovering around freezing, but still receiving snow on occasion.

Spring and autumn are mild, with pleasant temperatures, though rainfall is common during these seasons. Spring brings blooming flowers and green landscapes, while autumn offers vibrant colors as the leaves of deciduous trees turn yellow, orange, and red.

Extreme Weather Events

Romania occasionally experiences extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, severe storms, and flooding. The country is not typically affected by hurricanes or tornadoes, but heavy rains, particularly during the spring and summer, can lead to flash floods. The mountainous areas are sometimes affected by snowstorms, which can disrupt transportation and daily life, especially in rural or remote regions.

People of Romania

Population and Demographics

Romania has a population of approximately 19 million people, making it the seventh most populous country in the European Union. The majority of Romanians are ethnic Romanians, accounting for about 88% of the population. There are significant minority groups in the country, including Hungarians, Roma (Gypsies), Ukrainians, Germans, and others. The ethnic makeup of Romania has been shaped by its long history of territorial changes and migrations, particularly in regions like Transylvania, which has been home to both Romanians and Hungarians for centuries.

The country’s population has been declining in recent decades, primarily due to low birth rates and emigration, especially among the younger population. Many Romanians have sought work and better opportunities abroad, particularly in Western European countries like Italy, Spain, and Germany. This has led to a shift in the country’s demographic structure, with an increasing elderly population and a shrinking workforce.

Language and Religion

Romanian is the official language of Romania, a Romance language descended from Latin. It is spoken by the vast majority of the population and is the main language of instruction in schools, as well as the language used in government and business. There are also smaller communities of speakers of Hungarian, Ukrainian, Romani, and other languages, reflecting the diverse cultural influences in the country.

Romania is a predominantly Christian country, with around 86% of the population identifying as Eastern Orthodox Christians. The Romanian Orthodox Church plays an important role in the religious and cultural life of the country, and many of the country’s holidays and traditions are linked to the church calendar. There are also smaller populations of Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Greek Catholics, especially in regions with significant Hungarian populations, as well as Jewish communities.

Urban and Rural Life

Romania is an urbanizing country, with over half of the population living in cities. Bucharest, the capital, is the largest city and an important cultural and economic center. Other major cities include Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Iași, Constanța, and Brașov. These cities are home to universities, cultural institutions, and a growing business sector, particularly in information technology and manufacturing.

Despite urbanization, rural life remains significant in Romania. Many Romanians still live in small villages and maintain traditional agricultural lifestyles. The countryside is known for its picturesque villages, where traditional crafts, agriculture, and customs are still practiced. These rural areas also attract tourists who seek to experience authentic Romanian culture, including folklore, traditional food, and festivals.

Economy of Romania

Key Industries

Romania has a mixed economy, with a combination of agriculture, industry, and services. The country’s economy has undergone significant transformation since the fall of communism in 1989, transitioning from a centrally planned economy to a more market-oriented system. Romania is a member of the European Union and has benefited from EU membership, which has facilitated trade, investment, and infrastructure development.

Agriculture plays a significant role in Romania’s economy, with crops like wheat, corn, and sunflowers being staples. The country is also known for its vineyards, producing wines that are recognized internationally. Livestock farming, including cattle, sheep, and poultry, is also important, especially in rural areas.

Romania has a well-developed industrial sector, with key industries including automotive manufacturing, machinery production, chemicals, textiles, and electronics. The country is a major producer of automobiles, with global companies like Renault and Ford operating manufacturing plants in Romania. The country’s energy sector is also a key component of its economy, with Romania producing a significant amount of its own energy from sources like natural gas, coal, and renewable energy.

The services sector has expanded in recent years, with Romania becoming an outsourcing hub for information technology and business services. Bucharest and other cities have attracted international companies in fields like software development, call centers, and business consulting.

Economic Challenges and Growth

Despite its many strengths, Romania faces several economic challenges, including income inequality, corruption, and a reliance on foreign investment. Although Romania’s GDP has been growing steadily, poverty remains an issue in rural areas, and unemployment rates are higher in the countryside compared to urban centers. Furthermore, Romania’s aging population poses long-term challenges for the labor market and social welfare systems.

The Romanian government has implemented reforms aimed at attracting foreign investment, improving infrastructure, and modernizing public services. The country has also benefited from European Union funding for regional development projects, which has improved transportation, education, and healthcare systems.

Government of Romania

Political System

Romania is a democratic republic with a multi-party system, with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The Romanian political system is based on the Constitution, which provides for a separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

The president is elected for a five-year term and has limited executive powers, including representing the country abroad and appointing the prime minister, who must be approved by the Parliament. The Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, both of which are elected through proportional representation.

Romania’s legal system is based on civil law, and the judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches. The Constitutional Court of Romania has the authority to interpret the constitution and ensure that laws are in compliance with it.

European Union Membership

Romania joined the European Union in 2007, a move that has had significant implications for the country’s economy, legal system, and foreign policy. EU membership has provided Romania with access to European markets, funding, and various institutional reforms. The country has also benefited from the free movement of labor within the EU, allowing many Romanians to work in other member states.

However, Romania’s EU membership has also brought scrutiny, particularly in the areas of corruption, the rule of law, and human rights. The European Union has urged Romania to implement further reforms in these areas to meet EU standards, and the country continues to work toward achieving full integration into the EU’s economic and political structures.

Culture of Romania

Arts and Literature

Romanian culture is a mix of influences, shaped by its history and geographical location. The country has a rich tradition in literature, music, and the arts. Romanian literature is known for its deep philosophical themes, and authors such as Mihai Eminescu, Ion Luca Caragiale, and Mircea Eliade have made significant contributions to world literature. Poetry, in particular, has played an important role in Romania’s cultural identity.

The arts in Romania include a wide range of visual and performing arts, from traditional folk art to modern sculpture and painting. The country is known for its vibrant theater scene, with Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca being major centers of performance. Romania also has a strong tradition of folk music, with distinct regional styles and instruments, including the pan flute, which is internationally recognized.

Festivals and Traditions

Romania’s cultural life is marked by a number of traditional festivals, including those related to Orthodox Christian holidays such as Easter and Christmas. The country is also known for its folk festivals, where people dress in traditional costumes, dance to folk music, and celebrate Romanian customs.

The most famous festival is the Romanian Day of National Unity, celebrated on December 1st, which commemorates the unification of Transylvania with Romania in 1918. Other important festivals include the Medieval Festival of Sighişoara, the George Enescu Festival (dedicated to classical music), and the Transylvania International Film Festival.

Cuisine

Romanian cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country’s multicultural heritage. Traditional dishes include mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice), and mici (grilled sausages). Romanian cuisine incorporates influences from Turkish, Hungarian, and Slavic culinary traditions, as well as the use of local ingredients like meats, vegetables, dairy, and herbs. Romanian wine is also renowned, with regions like Murfatlar and Dealu Mare producing high-quality reds and whites.

History of Romania

Early History and Roman Empire

Romania’s history dates back to ancient times when the territory was inhabited by various Dacian tribes. The area was conquered by the Roman Empire in the 2nd century AD under Emperor Trajan, and it remained part of the Roman Empire for several centuries. The legacy of Roman rule in Romania is still visible today in the Latin-based Romanian language and the influence of Roman architecture and culture.

Medieval Period and the Ottoman Empire

In the Middle Ages, the territory of Romania was divided into several regions, including Wallachia, Moldavia, and Transylvania. These regions were often caught between the competing powers of the Ottoman Empire, Hungary, and Russia. Over time, Romania emerged as a unified state under rulers such as Vlad the Impaler (known as Dracula) and Stephen the Great.

Modern History and Communism

Romania achieved independence from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century and later unified as the Kingdom of Romania. In the 20th century, Romania was drawn into both World Wars, and after World War II, it became a communist state under the leadership of Nicolae Ceaușescu. The communist regime was characterized by harsh repression, economic struggles, and isolation from the West.

The 1989 Revolution led to the overthrow of Ceaușescu and the end of communist rule. Romania began its transition to democracy and a market economy, and in the 21st century, it has sought to integrate more closely with Western Europe through its membership in the European Union and NATO.