Colors of Constanta - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Constanta is one of the most picturesque and unique cities in Romania. It is not among the popular tourist destinations, even now foreigners are very rare here. Tourists from other countries always arouse great interest among locals, even foreign speech causes increased attention. Foreign guests here are treated with curiosity and cordiality, citizens are always happy to introduce them to their culture and traditions. To show your respect for the local culture, be sure to learn a few simple phrases in Romanian, and this gesture from your side will definitely be appreciated.

One of the main features of the city is a special architectural style. Many buildings that were built over 30 years ago have been preserved here. Today, they can be seen even on central streets. There are no attempts to reconstruct such buildings or build new ones in their place, all the old buildings are in active use. For many travelers, walking through the city center turns into a real journey into the past.

Old blocks, iron traffic lights at busy intersections, children's playgrounds built decades ago - it seems that the city is frozen in the past and continues to live the same measured life. It must be said that all the old urban elements are maintained in working order; even iron children’s slides are regularly painted in bright colors. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another interesting Constanta's feature is the variety of old cars, some of which deserve to be exhibited in retro museums. One should not be surprised at a series of miniature Dacia cars painted in bright colors riding along one of the central streets. For many tourists, searching for such vintage cars and shooting them become a kind of original entertainment.

Constanta has many interesting symbols that tourists usually discover accidentally. Walking along the waterfront, one can find shops selling beautiful amber products. The traditions of its processing are more than a hundred years old, and now the city has several high-class workshops where they make jewelry and unique souvenirs. Here you can buy traditional amber jewelry or pictures lined with ornamental stones. Also, local artisans make custom souvenirs to order.

Fishing is one of the main hobbies for residents of Constanta since it has been one of the largest ports in Europe since its foundation. Local fishermen can be seen on the waterfront literally in any weather, and among them, there are people of all ages. Some of them come to the water as families to enjoy their favorite hobby and relax in a peaceful atmosphere.

Despite the modern rhythm of life, townspeople often observe interesting historical traditions that have remained unchanged for hundreds of years. However, only a few of them are visible to ordinary tourists, as a significant part of unusual traditions is observed only at home and in private life. For example, even today people use special low tables for meals, which can be found in every local home. They are only used by family members, and when guests come, ordinary tables are served for them.

In their free time, tourists will have the opportunity to explore all facets of traditional arts and crafts, which have their place and time even in the conditions of the modern rhythm of life. The most popular type of applied art is cross-stitch embroidery, which serves as the main decoration for all national clothes. Today, the city has many specialized stores selling hand-embroidered vests and shirts. The most valuable items are those embroidered with gold and silver threads, which have no equal in beauty.

Another Constanta's widespread art that has been actively reviving in recent years is making dishes and household utensils from clay. The city offers several pottery workshops, each one is combined with a specialized shop. Here you can buy beautiful dishes and vases made of clay, unique flower pots and souvenirs. Once pottery was one of the principal means of livelihood for townspeople, but over the years it has lost its relevance. Now clay crafts are back in fashion. In some pottery studios, one can watch how professional potters do their job, as well as participate in interesting master classes. Constanta will surprise foreign guests with a variety of contrasts, its welcoming atmosphere and distinctive culture.