Global Intensive Experience Recap
War and Culture in Eastern Europe: Empire or Liberal Democracy?
Romania plays an increasingly important military, strategic and humanitarian role as a member of both the EU and NATO. While in Romania you will learn about the country’s geo-strategic positioning and explore the Black Sea and Danubian region as a gateway to “the Other Europe.” Stepping back in history, you will also learn about the country’s ties with the former Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman Empires as well as the USSR that still cast a long shadow over the nations of Central and Eastern Europe. Students will also participate in academic visits to Ceausescu’s People’s Palace, Dracula’s Castle in the Carpathians, Transylvanian Castles, and more!
2024 Recap
Day 1
Our journey began with an eye-opening visit to the Primaverii Palace, the former residence of Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. We continued our exploration with a guided tour of the iconic Palace of Parliament, one of the world’s largest and most imposing administrative buildings. Our day concluded with a visit to the National Museum of Contemporary Art, located within the Palace of Parliament.
Day 2
We embarked on a heritage walking tour that took us deep into the spiritual and historical heart of Bucharest. Our journey began at the majestic Patriarchal Cathedral, a cornerstone of Romanian Orthodoxy and a symbol of faith that has stood the test of time. The tour continued as we discovered the hidden gems of Bucharest’s medieval Christian churches. Our final stop was the Antim Monastery, an outstanding educational and cultural center built in the 18th century.
Day 3
A third day filled with visits through Romania’s rich cultural heritage continues with an extraordinary day of art and history in Bucharest. We began our exploration at The National Museum of Art of Romania, located in the grand former Royal Palace. Next, we stepped into one of Romania’s most iconic cultural landmarks: the Romanian Atheneum. Our cultural adventure continued as we walked to the Theodor Aman Museum.
Day 4
On Day 4, we had the incredible opportunity to engage in academic activities at Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University in Bucharest. Organized in collaboration with Arizona State University, this day was a testament to the power of international academic exchange and the sharing of knowledge across borders.
Day 5
Our Romanian adventure took us from the bustling streets of Bucharest to the serene shores of Constanța, where we immersed ourselves in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of this coastal city.
Day 6
Today, we delved deep into Romania’s rich history with a visit to the National History and Archaeology Museum of Constanța.This remarkable institution offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing over 430,000 artifacts that span from the Paleolithic era to the modern age.
Day 7
Today, we embarked on an unforgettable journey to one of Europe’s most extraordinary natural wonders, the Danube Delta. As the second largest river delta in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Danube Delta is a haven of biodiversity, offering a breathtaking glimpse into a world where nature reigns supreme. After the amazing and unique experience, we made our way back to Bucharest.
Day 8
Today, we embarked on a royal adventure that took us deep into Romania’s rich history, exploring two of its most iconic castles nestled in the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains.Our journey began at the magnificent Peleș Castle, a neo-Renaissance masterpiece in Sinaia. After soaking in the royal ambiance of Peleș to the charming city of Brașov, where our day continued with a visit to the legendary Bran Castle, often referred to as "Dracula's Castle."
Day 9
On Day 9, after a morning filled with learning at Dimitrie Cantemir Christian University, we had the afternoon free to explore more of Bucharest at our own pace.Some of us chose to unwind in Herăstrău Park and others visited the nearby Village Museum (Muzeul Satului).
Day 10
Our Romanian adventure brought us to the heart of Bucharest, where we had the privilege of exploring the exquisite Sutu Palace. This 19th-century architectural gem offers an immersive experience in Romanian history and culture, blending neoclassical and baroque styles to create a truly captivating atmosphere.To mark our last full day in Romania, we gathered for a heartfelt farewell dinner at the iconic restaurant “Hanul lui Manuc.” As we enjoyed the delicious traditional cuisine, we reflected on the incredible experiences we’ve shared and the memories we’ve created throughout this journey.