Romania is said to be a realm of legends and the Irish writer Bram Stoker brought true international notoriety to the county of Transylvania. Those who are still living in the country would not necessarily share this romantic vision, but one thing seems to be true: Legends are written in Satu Mare.
Here are some of the most interesting – and amusing – local legends.
It is said that, around the year 1717 (the last year the Tatars ever invaded these realms), an old woman living in the region (in Bixad) was visited by a Tatar… who was quite hungry. Lured by the barrel of sauerkraut stored in the woman’s yard, the Tatar climbed on a chair and stretched to get some cabbage. The old woman took the opportunity, grabbed his feet and threw him in the barrel, where the invader found his end.
Another local legend says there is a tunnel under the Somes River crossing Satu Mare city. Another large and secret network of medieval tunnels links several cities and castles around Satu Mare county.
Among the richest and most famous local legends there is the legend of the Ardud Citadel in Satu Mare. Stories revolve around the historical personality of the prince Francisc Rakoczi, whose daughter is said to have been seduced by an Austrian officer sent by the Prince’s rivals to discover the secrets of his invincible citadel. Finding out about his daughter’s betrayal, Rakoczi cursed her and the phantom of the girl is said to be haunting the hallways of the Ardud Castle still.
You may have heard about the battles in Carei, during the war. But did you know the town is also famous for… witches? In 1730, a medicine woman was accused of witchcraft and sentenced to death by burning at the stake. The same destiny was shared 15 years later by other 2 women, who were sacrificed here.
Satu Mare and the surrounding areas present a fascinating universe. Find out everything about it by traveling and rent a car in Satu Mare!