Transylvania is a region in Romania that is bordered to the south and east by the Carpathian Mountains.
The region’s name first appeared in the 12th century. It was under the rule of Hungary from the 11th to 16th centuries and then became an autonomous principality within the Ottoman Empire from the 16th to 17th century. It once again became part of Hungary at the end of the 17th century.
The region has an eventful history. Inhabited by the Dacians, ancient Transylvania was conquered by the Roman Empire nearly two millennia ago. After the Romans abandoned the land, Transylvania witnessed various waves of migratory invasions, and starting with the 11th century, its territory was conquered by the neighboring Hungarian Kingdom.
Today, Transylvania is a popular tourist destination known for its medieval towns and castles such as Bran Castle and Corvin Castle. The region is also famous for its traditional dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and cozonac (sweet bread with nuts and raisins).