Discover Sibiu's ASTRA Open Air Museum: Europe's largest ethnographic museum set in nature, showcasing Romanian rural life through traditional architecture and interactive exhibits. A place for cultural events, history, and culinary delights.
Tucked away in the beautiful Dumbrava Sibiului nature reserve, the ASTRA Open Air Museum is a special place that takes you on a trip to see how people in Romania used to live. It's the biggest museum of its kind in Europe, covering a large area of 96 hectares. This museum isn't just about looking at old things; it's a place where the rich history and culture of Romanian folk life are kept alive for everyone to see and learn from.
As you walk through the museum, you'll see more than 400 amazing buildings that show how diverse Romania's architecture is. Picture wooden houses with roofs made entirely of wood from the Maramureș region, or houses with tall straw roofs from the Western Carpathians. Each building has its own story, giving you a glimpse into how people lived and worked with nature.
But it's not just buildings. The museum is home to thousands of objects that were part of daily life in old Romanian villages. From tools and clothes to beautifully made textiles, each item has a story that connects us to the past.
The ASTRA Museum is always buzzing with life. Throughout the year, it hosts events like traditional fairs, workshops, and food tastings. These events are a great way to see and even take part in the traditions that have shaped Romanian culture.
One of the coolest parts of the museum is the European Village. It includes a Swedish granary and is a project that brings together architecture students from all over Europe to build and design structures that show the diversity of European culture.
The museum is designed to be fun and educational for visitors of all ages. Kids can play with miniatures and learn through hands-on experiences, making history exciting and understandable. For those who love food, the museum's restaurant offers traditional Romanian dishes that are a feast for the senses. And don't forget to visit the museum shop, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs.
The ASTRA Open Air Museum has something for everyone, whether you're just visiting Sibiu or you've come from far away to experience Romanian culture. With open hours that change with the seasons, it's easy to plan a visit.
This museum is more than just a place to see old things; it's a community where every path tells a story, every building shows a piece of history, and every event brings people closer together. We invite you to come and make your own memories here, joining in the celebration of Romania's rich and colorful heritage.
