Eddex Travel Blog

Romania is fascinating for many facts but especially when we talk about the unique culture, our traditions, ancient customs and beliefs.

Sanziene or "Dragaica" is one of the most beautiful, interesting pagan summery ritual.

This special day is celebrated on 24th of June which is also an important day for the Christian Orthodox believers, when it is  celebrated St. John the Baptist.

Therefore, everything happens in the middle of summer, and it is all about love, life, fecundity, bearing fruits  to the plants or healing the sick people.

It is believed that these fantastic creatures - Sanziene - are very beautiful girls. Once a year during the night of 23th-24th of June they  come out of the woods and start dancing in hidden places. Through this ritual they invoke these things to happen. The legend says that his dance is invisible to mortals, and if anyone still sees something he will get sick without healing.

During this special day and night there are some traditions and customs to be followed by mortals in order to take advantage of the special powers of the Sanziene.

Young girls weave wreaths of wild flowers. Now, depending on which region of Romania they could take different actions with these wreaths.

They throw the crown over the house roof and if it clings to the chimney the girl will soon get married. Or, she could put those wildflowers under the pillow and her dreams of that magical night will come true. It is believed that during this special night the animals can talk to each other and whoever listens can find out many mysteries.

If you like to experience more about Romania you could book one of my tours here or ask for a fully customised one.

Thank you!