On the România Atractivă platform, the past comes alive through spectacular 3D animations that turn ruins, historic sites, and long-lost monuments into breathtaking visual journeys. From digitally rebuilt medieval fortresses to churches restored to their original glory, these reconstructions open a unique window into history—inviting us not just to learn, but to feel the spirit of Romania’s cultural heritage. It’s a journey through time that is as moving as it is fascinating.

We’ve chosen three legends you can encounter along the România Atractivă routes, each brought back to life with the help of technology. Even though no one today can say with certainty how these stories truly unfolded, our imagination gets a precious helping hand in recreating those long-gone times. Let’s dive in!

One of Romania’s most famous landmarks, Corvin Castle is often called the Living Legend of Transylvania. On the platform’s dedicated page, a 3D animation reveals the origin of the Corvin family’s coat of arms: a raven clutching a golden ring in its beak.

Legend has it that John Hunyadi (Iancu de Hunedoara) was the illegitimate son of King Sigismund of Luxembourg and a noblewoman from Țara Hațegului, named Elisabeta. To secure the boy’s future, Sigismund gave Elisabeta a golden ring—a promise that her son would one day be recognized.

As a child, John was playing with the ring during a hunt when a raven snatched it away. Fortunately, his uncle, a skilled hunter, managed to bring down the bird and recover the jewel. Years later, when Elisabeta presented her son at court, the king recognized the ring, acknowledged John as his son, and granted him both wealth and a family crest: the raven with a golden ring in its beak. The Latin Corvus (“raven”) stands as a symbol of wisdom and longevity.

At the northern edge of Cernatul de Sus, on a hill known as Várbérc (“Fortress Peak”), stands the recently restored Ika Fortress. Locals also call it the Truncated Tower of Cernat.

According to legend, vast treasures of gold and diamonds lie hidden beneath the fortress, locked away in its deep cellars. The entrance, however, was said to be guarded by two fierce roosters—one black, one red. They never rested at the same time: while one slept, the other kept watch. Should anyone dare approach the iron door, the rooster on guard would begin to crow, causing the door to slam shut instantly.

Curious? The legend comes to life in a mesmerizing 3D animation—don’t miss it.

In the heart of the charming town of Cristuru Secuiesc, the Gyárfás Mansion awaits—a historic jewel built in three stages starting in 1728. Its story shines brightest during the Hungarian Revolution of 1848–1849, when it sheltered soldiers fighting with unyielding determination.

It was here that Sándor Petőfi, considered the greatest poet of Hungarian literature, spent the night of July 30 to 31—the last night before his disappearance in the battle of Albești.

Strolling through the tranquil Gyárfás Park, you’ll find all paths lead to Petőfi’s Pear Tree. Legend says that under this very tree, Petőfi wrote his final poem and even recited his verse “A thought torments me…”—a haunting premonition of his fate the next day. The only witness was the tree itself, which has since become a treasured memorial for the Hungarian community.

Thanks to 3D animation, you can relive this poignant moment and step into the poet’s final night.