Bună, dear fellow wanderers! It’s your favorite globetrotting gnome, Oliver, reporting in from the heart of Romania!

I’ve just completed a 31.3km journey from Brad to Deva. A stretch that may seem ordinary to some, but for a gnome-sized explorer like me, it’s quite the adventure!

The star of today’s journey was the Deva Citadel, perched high on a volcanic hill, silently dominating the cityscape. This fortress, with its centuries-old stone walls, has seen the passage of countless humans, weathered storms, and witnessed history unfold. It made me ponder upon the transient nature of our existence, and how, despite our fleeting lives, we leave behind enduring legacies. As a Romanian proverb goes, “Piatra crăpată nu mai face drumeț” which translates to “A cracked stone no longer makes a journey” – speaking volumes about the importance of resilience and endurance.

This stretch has added to the 5576.2 kilometers I’ve already covered on foot. In my travels, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring the cities of Beiuș, Ștei, Brad, Deva, Bănița, each with its own unique charm. I’ve been on the road for 185 days, and I can’t wait to see where the road takes me next.

La revedere for now, my friends! Remember, we’re all cracked stones, but it’s the journey that makes us whole. Keep wandering and wondering, and don’t forget to pack your sense of humor! As the Romanians love to jest, “Omule, ține minte: cât trăiești, învață!” which means “Man, remember: as long as you live, learn!” So, off I go to learn some more and to crack a few more jokes along the way!

Until next time, happy travels!

Ah, the city of Deva, a historical gem nestled in the heart of Romania. It’s here that I marveled at the majestic Deva Citadel, a fortress standing tall since the 13th century. Locals call it “Cetatea Deva“, offering panoramic views of the city that’s worth every step of the uphill climb.

One cannot talk about Deva without mentioning the legendary composer Adrian Ivanitchi, a true son of Deva who strummed the heartstrings of Romania with his poignant melodies. In his words, “Deva este casa mea, muzica este viața mea” – Deva is my home, music is my life.

And for those with a keen interest in ancient history, Deva houses the Museum of Dacian and Roman Civilisation, a testament to the city’s rich past. As the Romanians say, “Un popor fără istorie este ca un copil fără părinți” – A nation without history is like a child without parents. What a profound way to acknowledge their heritage!

And there you have it, a glimpse into the fascinating city of Deva through the eyes of a grumpy, yet optimistic garden gnome.