Romania’s culture is a vibrant mix shaped over centuries by many influences—from Dacian roots and Roman conquest to medieval kingdoms and Ottoman ties. The Ottoman legacy, evident in Wallachia and Moldavia, left a lasting mark through centuries of trade, tribute, and conflict. For history lovers and curious travellers, this connection opens a fascinating window into Romania’s heart, especially in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. Get ready to explore the stories and places that bring this history to life!
Though never fully annexed into the Ottoman Empire, Romanian territories—especially Wallachia and Moldavia—spent significant periods as vassal states under Ottoman suzerainty. From the late 14th to the 19th century, these regions maintained a delicate balance: paying tribute to the sultans while preserving a degree of autonomy. This complex relationship fostered resistance and exchange, leading to a subtle yet enduring presence of Turkish cultural and architectural elements across the country. The result is a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western motifs, found in religious structures, historic marketplaces, and everyday Romanian customs and cuisine.
Bucharest, the Romanian capital, bears visible and symbolic traces of its Ottoman-era past. A walk through its historic centre reveals remnants of a time when traders, travellers, and emissaries from Istanbul frequented the area, contributing to its evolution into a key regional hub.
Manuc's Inn (Hanul lui Manuc) remains one of the most tangible examples of Ottoman influence in the city. Constructed in 1808 by Emanuel Mârzaian, an Armenian entrepreneur known as Manuc-bei, the inn once served as a vibrant meeting point for merchants and political figures. Its architecture, with wooden galleries surrounding a large inner courtyard, reflects traditional Ottoman design. Today, the building continues to thrive as a restaurant and cultural venue, where visitors can experience a slice of Ottoman ambiance while enjoying Romanian and Turkish cuisine.
Not far from the inn lies the Old Princely Court (Curtea Veche), the former residence of Wallachian rulers, including the infamous Vlad the Impaler. Though largely in ruins today, the site is historically significant for understanding the intricate political ties between Romanian princes and the Ottoman court. It also showcases architectural remnants that point to Eastern influences, testifying to a time when power was negotiated between local leaders and the might of the sultans.
Though built in the early 20th century, the Carol I Mosque (Geamia Carol I) in Bucharest’s Carol Park underscores the continued presence of the Muslim community in Romania. Commissioned by King Carol I and designed in a Moorish stle, the mosque pays homage to the country's Muslim heritage, offering a serene space of worship and an enduring symbol of the city’s multicultural layers.
Situated in the historical region of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca offers a more subtle but equally meaningful connection to the Ottoman legacy. The city was once a site of strategic interest due to its position along the empire’s frontier zones and its involvement in regional conflicts during the Ottoman-Habsburg struggle for control over Eastern Europe.
One of the best places to begin is the Museum of Transylvanian History, which houses an extensive collection of artefacts that trace the region’s interactions with the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring Ottoman coins, ceremonial weapons, maps, and diplomatic correspondence. These displays provide a nuanced view of the complex relationships between Transylvania’s leaders and their Ottoman counterparts, enriching our understanding of the geopolitical dynamics of the time.
High above the city lies Cetățuia Hill (Fortress Hill), once the site of military fortifications. While the existing structure dates to the 18th century and was built by the Habsburgs, the hill itself had earlier defences that were relevant during periods of Ottoman threat and influence. Today, it offers sweeping views of Cluj-Napoca, serving as both a scenic overlook and a historical waypoint that connects visitors with the city’s layered past.
Also of note is the Matthias Corvinus House, a Gothic residence where the renowned King Matthias Corvinus of Hungary was born. Although the structure itself predates significant Ottoman influence in Transylvania, it serves as a reminder of the broader regional tensions that defined the medieval and early modern periods. During Corvinus’s reign, the balance of power between Christian kingdoms and the expanding Ottoman Empire was a defining political issue, further linking this site to the larger narrative of Turkish-Romanian interactions.
While Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca provide structured urban contexts for encountering Turkish heritage, Romania's more rural and coastal areas offer a broader look at the multicultural fabric influenced by Ottoman history.
Constanța, situated on the shores of the Black Sea, has long been a melting pot of civilisations. As a historic port city, Constanța attracted traders across the empire, including Turks, Tatars, and Greeks. One of the most prominent symbols of the city’s Islamic heritage is the Grand Mosque of Constanța, also known as the Carol I Mosque (not to be confused with the one in Bucharest). Built in 1910, it showcases a harmonious blend of Romanian and Ottoman architectural elements. With its elegant minaret and ornately tiled interior, the mosque is both a religious centre and an architectural gem, open to visitors and worshippers alike.
Moving inland, the Dobruja region offers a compelling look at living Turkish culture within Romania. This southeastern area is home to vibrant Turkish and Tatar communities, with towns like Medgidia and Babadag offering active mosques, cultural centres, and local events that preserve and celebrate Turkish traditions. Visitors can experience authentic Turkish cuisine, visit historical sites, and engage with a vibrant cultural heritage carefully maintained over generations.
In Babadag, you’ll find the Babadag Mosque, one of Romania’s oldest Muslim worship sites, dating back to the 17th century. Its importance is enhanced by ongoing preservation and active use, making it a must-visit for those interested in the history of Islam in Eastern Europe.
Renting a car is the best way to travel freely and on your schedule to fully explore Romania’s Turkish heritage—from well-known cities to hidden towns. Many rural or historic sites aren’t easily accessible by public transport, so having your vehicle makes the journey smoother and more complete. At Finalrentals, we make it easy for you to explore the country comfortably and confidently. Whether you're navigating the lively streets of Bucharest or enjoying the scenic drives across Transylvania, our diverse fleet has something for every kind of traveller.
We keep the booking process simple and transparent, with no hidden fees and the flexibility of free cancellation. If you’re visiting from outside the EU, we’ll walk you through everything you need to drive legally in Romania. And if anything comes up along the way, our local support team is just a call away. Renting a car with Finalrentals means your journey through Romania becomes more personal, flexible, and rewarding.
Romania’s Turkish heritage offers a unique glimpse into a lesser-known side of European history. From Ottoman-era architecture in Bucharest to historic mosques in Dobruja and diverse communities in Constanța, these sites highlight centuries of cultural exchange and influence. Exploring them gives travellers a deeper understanding of Romania’s past and cultural richness. With the freedom of a rental car, your journey becomes more flexible and personal—letting you uncover history at your own pace.
Rent a car in Romania with Finalrentals and explore at your rhythm. Whether you're curious or passionate about culture, Romania’s Turkish legacy is ready to be explored.
