In our travels through the universe of underappreciated Romanian destinations, we alight on the shore of the Black Sea. Today we wish to convince you it’s worth visiting Tulcea!
The city built on 7 hills (like Rome) has been home to various populations ever since the times of the Gumelnita civilization (3 millennia BC). In the 7th century BC, the Dacians set the city called Aegyssus. Following the Roman conquest, the Romans reconstructed the city according to their own architectural standards and vision. Ovid, the exiled poet, mentioned the founder of the city. Carpyus Aegyssus, in his work, Ex Ponto.
Before it was re-annexed to Romania in 1878, Tulcea found itself under Byzantine, Genoese and Ottoman rule. The influence of these cultures is present in the local architecture, as well as in the ethnic structure of the region: Romanians, Lipov Russians, Turks, etc.
The main attractions in town include the Natural Science Museum of the Danube Delta, The Arts Museum, the History and Archeology Museum, St. Nicholas Church (erected in 1865), the Azizie Mosque (1924), the Synagogue, the “Jean Bart” Theatre, the Park of Personalities, the Albatros Park and the Children’s Park.
Outside the city, there are also countless options for relaxation and entertainment, depending on the activity you have in mind. If you are a nature lover, the Mt. Macin National Park is the main unspoilt attraction closeby.
The Danube Delta, with its three branches, Sulina, Chilia and Sf. Gheorghe, is located relatively near and unravels a magical universe before the very eyes of the visitor.
Enisala marks a return to the medieval age, when the proud Heracleea Citadel stood tall. Also here, you can visit a traditional fishermen’s village.
About an hour’s drive from Tulcea, you can visit Histria Citadel and Lake Sinoe. All these attractions are well worth our attention. And in order to travel easily around Dobrogea, you can rent a car in Tulcea for a very low price with a simple online reservation.