Hailed Romania's powerhouse of culture, its economic center and its capital, Bucharest (Bucuresti in Romanian), the country's largest city, lies half-way between the river Danube and the South Carpathians mountains on the banks of the Dambovita. In written form, the name Bucuresti dates from 1459, when it was recorded in a document of Vlad III the Impaler, the ruler of Walachia. Vlad III built the fortress of Bucharest--the first of many fortifications--with the aim of holding back the Turks who were threatening the existence of the Walachian state. In 1640, it was reported that the population of the city exceeded 100,000. Under the Ottoman suzerainty (supreme rule) that was eventually established, Bucharest developed rapidly.

Reborn in December 1989 as a free nation, the multi-faceted Romania boasts a wonderfully eclectic heritage of traditional culture, scenic wonders and historical architecture.

Once known as the "little Paris of the east," Bucharest is home to top shelf culture, entertainment and artistry. Stroll down historic cobblestone streets and peek in at the shops and studios. While in Transylvania pay a visit to the legendary Bran Castle, (Don't worry, Dracula won't bite anyone on a UJC Mission).

Romania is a country rich in Jewish heritage. The first Jews arrived as part of the Roman legions (Legion Judaica) that invaded Dacia in 101 A.D. Jews also worked as craftsman and merchants serving the Roman legions.

During the Middle Ages, Jewish immigrants began settling in Wallachia and Moldavia, with ever increasing numbers arriving after Spain's expulsion of the Jews in 1492. By the early 16th century, their number again increased by immigrants fleeing from Cossack uprisings in Poland and the Ukraine. During the region's domination by the Turks, the Romanian Jewish Community evolved into a prosperous middle class in charge of most of the country's trade.

The Jewish Community of Romania boasts a dynamic cultural and spiritual life in the face of recurrent periods of anti-Semitism. Following Transylvania's return to Romania after WW I, the country's Jewish population rose from approximately 240,000 to approximately 750,000 virtually overnight. After WW II, emigration to Israel and other countries; the Jewish population is leveling off around 20,000.

Today, there are poignant reminders of Romania's Jewish heritage and Jewish roots. The country is unique in Eastern and Central Europe for its scores of well-maintained synagogues and cemeteries scattered throughout Romania. The Choral Synagogue in Bucharest has a magnificent interior and Moorish architecture, while the Great Synagogue has an elaborate Moorish interior.