Understand

Iai, located in northeastern Romania, sits close to the border with Republic of Moldova, divided by the Prut River. The city is known as the "legendary city of the seven hills," which include Cetuia, Galata, Copou, Bucium, orogari, Repedea, and Breazu. These hills offer stunning views of the city. Despite its crowdedness and constant expansion, Iai maintains its green appearance with its boulevards and gardens. The city is a mixture of medieval churches, old European style houses, and communist apartment buildings. The urban rush of communism replaced houses, farms, and vineyards with apartments. However, after the fall of the regime in 1989, Iai has been reinventing itself. The landscape changes rapidly as the city undergoes psychological and economical transformations. Tourism in Iai revolves around its rich heritage of archaeological sites, memorial houses, museums, historical and architectural monuments, as well as its folkloric and ethnographic heritage. The city offers a blend of simplicity and sophistication with interminable ironies. Peasants still sell fresh produce in markets, while their children enjoy modern amenities like cell phones. The surrounding countryside of Iai is also worth exploring, with its vineyards and natural mineral waters. For more information about the city's attractions, accommodations, and transportation, visit the [span class="fn org"]Tourism Information Center Iai[/span] ([a href="http://turism-iasi.ro/index.php?id=102" class="url external autonumber"]source[/a]).

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sarmale - Sarmale represents traditional Romanian cuisine at its finest. These cabbage rolls are filled with a mixture of minced pork, beef, rice, and onions, seasoned with various spices. The whole concoction is then slowly cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. This hearty dish is often served during festive occasions or as comfort food on chilly days.

Mititei - Mititei are small, sausage-like rolls made from ground pork mixed with garlic, onion, and various spices. They're traditionally grilled, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs excellently with mustard and pickles. This beloved street food is a staple at picnics, sports events, and other gatherings throughout Romania.

Ciorbă de burta - Also known as tripe soup, ciorbă de burta is a traditional Romanian dish made from the slow-cooked stomach lining of a cow or sheep. It's prepared with onions, potatoes, spices, and sometimes smoked pork. Often enjoyed by those seeking warmth on cold winter days, this hearty soup can be found simmering on backcountry stoves or in rural homes across Romania.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing