Romanian Rituals |The beliefs and superstitions in Romania

Steeped in myth and legend, Romania boasts a rich tapestry of folklore. From fantastical creatures and heroic figures to enchanted locations and enduring superstitions, Romanian traditions are fueled by the country's deep belief in the supernatural. This vibrant wellspring of folklore continues to inspire popular culture to this day.

 

Rituals of the Romanian Folklore

Paparuda

The Paparuda ritual, also known as Dodola in Slavic mythology, is a fascinating tradition in Romanian folklore. It involves appeasing the rain goddess, Paparuda, who is traditionally depicted as a young woman adorned with leaves and was revered throughout Romania, except in Bukovina and Maramures regions. Echoes of this ritual can still be found in Banat, Hungary, and Moldavia.

 

To entice the rain goddess into action, the people conduct a special rain dance. This energetic ceremony is often held on the third Thursday following Whitsuntide and at times of severe drought. Young people, usually older than 14, take the front stage. They call for rain with rhythmic clapping, snapping, drumming, and mystical chants. These chants, which frequently include onomatopoeia, make a hopeful plea:

 

Come little rain

Come and make us wet

When you come with the sieve

Let it be a barnful

 

Romanians and Moldavians still follow this engaging ritual, and it has even made a comeback at many summer festivals, demonstrating the continuing spirit of Romanian traditions. The rite unfolds in a boisterous parade around the hamlet, with all of the ladies actively participating. The ceremony requires a playful drenching with water during or after the performance. This symbolic gesture is thought to satisfy the rain goddess. In exchange for their efforts, the young performers get abundance-themed gifts such as eggs, maize, wheat, milk, fruits, and, on occasion, money. Interestingly, unique clothing is also available, implying a probable link to ancestor worship, another thread woven into the rich tapestry of Romanian traditions. Once the village tour concludes, the performers make their way to a flowing stream, where they discard their leafy skirts, symbolically releasing the accumulated rain magic back into nature.

 

Calusarii

Calusarii are part of a fraternal secret society that practices a ritualistic dance named calusul, which is one of the prominent Romanian traditions. The calus tradition has been part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List since November 25th, 2005, alongside other Romanian traditions such as Doina, the Horezu Ceramics, the Christmas Carols performed by a group of boys, and the Dance of the Lads.

 

Their origins are unknown, but they were first mentioned sometime during the 17th century. They are widely known for their agility and "ability to create the impression of flying in the air," which associates them with horses and fairies.

 

Their connection with fairies led many people to believe that the Calusari possessed magical healing powers. Thus, they spend around two to three weeks travelling around local communities, where they perform their dances.

 

During the show, the Calusari wear custom-made shirts embroidered with flowers and custom hats. They also carry clubs, a sword, a flag, and a wooden horsehead.

 

The fire of Sumedru

The fire of Sumedru, known as Focul lui Sumedru, is one of the ancient Romanian traditions that dates back approximately two thousand years. This tradition marks the renewal of the calendar time and is deeply rooted in Romanian cultural heritage.

 

On the night between October 25th and 26th, the highest hills surrounding rural villages come alive with the glow of bonfires. These bonfires are set up by the youth, and people from the villages gather around them, called by their neighbours to join the ritual. The objective is to have as many people as possible present for this significant event, reflecting the communal spirit of Romanian traditions.

 

At the centre of the bonfire, the stem of a tree is placed to symbolize the god who dies and is reborn each year. This powerful image serves as a reminder of the cycles of life and nature, which are central themes in many Romanian traditions. After the fire goes out, the villagers collect coal from its remains, believing it to have the power to fertilize their gardens and orchards, thus ensuring prosperity and abundance in the coming year.

 

In Romanian mythology, Sumedru (or Simedru) is a god associated with this ritual. According to legend, Sumedru was cremated on a ceremonial bonfire, and this ancient practice has continued through the ages. The name Sumedru is derived from Saint Demetrius, linking this tradition to both pagan and Christian elements, which is characteristic of many Romanian traditions.

 

The fire of Sumedru not only signifies the end of one cycle and the beginning of another but also reinforces the deep connection between the people, their land, and their cultural heritage. It is a vivid example of how Romanian traditions have preserved and celebrated the natural rhythms of life for centuries.

 

Dragaica

Dragaica is a vibrant agrarian ritual that forms an integral part of Romanian traditions. This celebration involves a dance group of 5 to 10 girls, with the most beautiful one among them being chosen to play the role of Dragaica. The chosen Dragaica is dressed as a bride, with her hair adorned with ears of wheat, symbolizing fertility and abundance. The other girls in the group are dressed in white and wear veils over their faces, adding to the ethereal and ceremonial atmosphere.

 

As part of this Romanian tradition, the group of girls makes their way through the village, stopping at various crossroads to perform dances and sing songs. These performances are believed to encourage the fruits to ripen faster and protect the crops from rot, reflecting the close relationship between community rituals and agricultural cycles in Romanian traditions.

 

In Romanian folk mythology, the figures of Sânzienele or Dragaicele are mythical nocturnal creatures known for their benevolence towards humans and nature. Unlike the Iele and Pentecost, Sânzienele or Dragaicele are kind-hearted and nurturing. However, they are also known to become extremely upset and seek revenge if they are not respected by people. This duality of kindness and vengeance highlights the importance of respecting nature and its cycles, a theme that is prevalent in many Romanian traditions.

 

The Dragaica ritual not only serves agricultural purposes but also reinforces the cultural values and beliefs that are passed down through generations. It is a beautiful example of how Romanian traditions intertwine myth, community, and the rhythms of nature, creating a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that continues to be celebrated to this day.

 

Celebrating the harvest: the essence of Romanian traditions in agriculture

 

As you can observe, the main purpose of Romanian traditions and customs is often to promote the fructification of the earth and ensure the abundance of crops. These practices are deeply rooted in agrarian culture, reflecting the importance of agriculture to Romanian life. 

 

Some Romanian traditions involve rituals of fertilization, aimed at enhancing the fertility of the soil and the productivity of the crops. These include various dances, songs, and ceremonies designed to invoke the forces of nature and the divine to bless the land with abundance. Prevention and protection against natural disasters are also key elements in these customs, with specific rituals performed to guard against threats like drought, hail, and pests that could damage the crops.

 

Additionally, many Romanian traditions serve as offerings of gratitude to the divinity for the bountiful harvests. These rituals acknowledge the role of higher powers in providing for the community and express thankfulness for the sustenance received. Such practices often involve communal gatherings, feasting, and the sharing of the harvested produce, reinforcing the bonds within the community and their connection to the land.

 

These Romanian traditions and customs encapsulate a holistic approach to agriculture, blending practical agricultural practices with spiritual and communal elements. They highlight the deep respect for nature and the cycles of the earth that are central to Romanian culture, ensuring that these ancient practices continue to be observed and cherished in modern times.

 

Visiting Romania provides a rare opportunity to witness these rich customs firsthand and learn about the country's agrarian background. For a fully involved experience, contact Rolandia to arrange special trips that explore these intriguing Romanian traditions.