You Are Here – Constanta

It looks like Romania is getting some extra love from Starbucks which results into more releases. You Are Here – Constanța is a mug for a vibrant port city situated on the western coast of the Black Sea. It is a gem of Romania that seamlessly weaves together a rich tapestry of history, diverse culture, and mesmerizing landscapes. With a legacy dating back thousands of years, Constanta stands as a testament to the resilience and endurance of the civilizations that have left their mark on its shores.

Constanța, originally known as Tomis, was founded by the ancient Greeks around 600 BC. Legend has it that the city was visited by Jason and the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Constanța played a crucial role in trade and commerce, serving as a vital link between the Mediterranean and the Danube River. Over the centuries, the city witnessed the rise and fall of various empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. During World War II, Constanta was a major target for Allied bombers, and the port suffered extensive damage. However, the town itself was left relatively unscathed. The port recovered in the early 1950s

Here are some symbols and points of interests that are suggested in the design of the mug:

The Constanța Casino (Cazinoul din Constanta) is not only a historic monument but also a symbol of the city’s cultural heritage. Its Art Nouveau design and its location on the waterfront of the Black Sea make it a captivating sight for visitors. The casino has a fascinating history.
The construction of the Constanta Casino began in 1880, with the first structure being made of wood. Over the years, the casino went through several transformations and renovations. The current structure, built in the Art Nouveau style, was designed by Swiss-Romanian architect Daniel Renard and was inaugurated in August 1910. It quickly became a landmark and a symbol of the city.
The Constanta Casino served as a gambling venue for 38 years, with interruptions during the two World Wars. It was attacked and bombed by Bulgarian and German troops in World War I and suffered damage during World War II. At one point, it even acted as a makeshift wartime hospital.
Unfortunately, over the 20th century, the Constanta Casino fell into disrepair and was eventually repurposed by the communist regime as a restaurant. However, efforts have been made to restore and preserve this architectural gem. The restoration works, which began in 2020, are currently ongoing, and the completion deadline is projected to be at the end of March 2024.

The Grand Mosque of Constanța, also known as the Carol I Mosque, is a significant religious and architectural landmark of the city. Built between 1910 and 1912 during the reign of King Carol I, it stands as one of the most important Islamic structures in the country. The mosque’s design combines elements of Moorish and Byzantine architecture, creating a unique and visually striking appearance. With its towering minaret and intricate details, the Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of religious diversity and cultural heritage in Constanța. It serves as a place of worship for the local Muslim community and is also a popular tourist attraction, welcoming visitors to explore its beautiful interior and learn about the Islamic heritage of the region.

The Genoese Lighthouse, another iconic symbol, stands proudly on the shores of the Black Sea. Constructed in the 19th century, the lighthouse served as a guiding beacon for sailors navigating the treacherous waters, symbolizing Constanta’s role as a maritime hub.

Mamaia Beach is often considered the symbol of Constanta’s seaside tourism. Its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere attract visitors from all over the country.

The proper spelling of the name of the city is definitely something worth mentioning. As you can see, the second “T” in the name has the comma below. In fact this letter sounds like “ts”. Hence the pronunciation of Constanța is approximately “kohn-stahn-tsah” in English phonetics. The stress is on the second syllable, and the “c” is pronounced like “k”.