Europe, Romania


Iasi: A Town Full of Soul

Europe Romania

One of my favourite places in the world is my hometown, Iasi. Once named the city of one hundred Churches, Iasi is one of the most important cultural centers, as well as one of the oldest cities in Romania.

With a rich historical background, this city prides itself with having the first Romanian University. Over many years, history and culture have given Iasi a unique touch. Iasi has a notable collection of Orthodox Churches. The most impressive are St. Paraschiva Metropolitan Cathedral and Trei Ierarhi Church.

Besides the churches and other historical monuments, this city shelters one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in Romania, that houses a lavish collection of trees and plants. If you are into long afternoon walks, don’t miss the Copou Park. It used to be a refuge for the well known Romanian poet, Mihai Eminescu and it’s exceptional creations.

If you’re a Theater lover, you cannot miss Vasile Alecsandri Theatre (dressed up in a French style, it is one of the most sumptuous and well known buildings in Romania). Iasi is also home to other cultural treasures like Moldova State philarmonic, the central University library, natural history Museum and the old University.

Situated in the heart of the city, an iconic symbol of the city’s past and also one of the most edifying cultural heritage sites, will wink at you through it s remarkable neo-gothic architecture. That is the Palace of Culture, a national treasure that hosts four museums, historical artifacts and many art galleries.

Inspirational, lively and unexpectedly cosmopolitan, Iasi reunites every year students and tourists all over the world. Iasi is one of the leading centers when it comes to social life. Faddish cafes and restaurants, intense nightlife are the heart of Iasi. Every corner of the city will surprise you through the blend of cultural heritage and the ultramodern. There are not sufficient words to portray this marvelous city. A warm advice of mine would be to find your boldness and to discover it yourself.

Contributed by Stefana Puscasu