Gușterland is shaping up to be an exciting new destination just 4 kilometers from Sibiu’s historic center, covering around 300,000 square meters. It is designed to offer an impressive range of activities. Visitors can look forward to a 3 kilometer bike trail that will eventually connect to the “Colinele Transilvaniei” network, linking Sibiu with Sighișoara and Brașov. In addition, it will feature a summer slide installation, with a 680 meters uphill and 960 meters downhill run, a synthetic ski and tubing slope, and two zip lines stretching about 300 meters each. Families will also enjoy a 4,000 square meter playground, which will include an adventure tower, while nature lovers can enjoy a pedestrian trail exceeding 700 meters and a 1,600 square meter picnic area. Gușterland will also have a panoramic terrace close to the Gușterița Hill monument and a multi-functional pavilion that will house public catering spaces.

The project’s timeline had been carefully structured and it was finalized in 2022. In October 2023, a construction contract worth 54.87 million lei was signed with a corporation led by CONA Operation SRL Sibiu, in partnership with Ischia SRL Galați and Submit SRL Iași. With the technical design now complete, full-scale construction is expected to begin by mid-2024, following the purchase of all necessary permits. The project is expected to be completed by July 2025.

Back in 2022, the initial cost estimate for the project was set at 46 million lei. However, following adjustments and the inclusion of additional cost factors, such as health and safety coordination, budget limits, price adjustment reserves, consultancy fees, and a 10% allocation for sudden expenses, have pushed the overall investment to 97.76 million lei. 

A significant component of the project’s environmental and urban planning strategy is the development of a 300 space Park & Ride facility at the base of the hill near Salcâmilor Street. This parking area will feature five charging stations for electric or hybrid vehicles, ensuring that cars are kept out of the main leisure zone to protect the natural surroundings. Moreover, the Sibiu Environmental Protection Agency has confirmed that Gușterland does not require a full environmental impact assessment, as it meets both national and EU environmental standards. While the name “Gușterland” may not inspire all residents, its wide-ranging facilities are expected to cater for a diverse audience, from sports enthusiasts to families seeking peaceful outdoor spaces.

Not everyone is convinced, however. Local resident and Tursib Board of Administration member Jens Kielhorn has been a vocal critic, warning council members about the recent budget hikes. He argues that the project lacks a proper cost-benefit analysis and fears that the growing expenses could turn Gușterland into a “bottomless pit” for public funds. On top of that, there are concerns about extra safety measures needed under the 110 kV power lines, with some suggesting that legal action or a project redesign might be necessary to avoid unnecessary costs.

Despite these debates and challenges, the Sibiu City Hall remains committed to the project. As preliminary work has already begun, including site preparation and topsoil removal for the parking area, the city is moving steadily towards the realization of a landmark project that promises to blend adventure, family fun and ecological responsibility.

Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Sibiu stands as a will to the rich tapestry of European history, culture, and identity. With its harmonious blend of medieval charm, multicultural heritage, and vibrant contemporary arts scene, Sibiu has emerged as a beacon of cultural convergence. Designated as a European Capital of Culture in 2007, the city continues to captivate visitors and scholars alike with its architectural elegance, dynamic festivals, and enduring spirit of inclusivity.

SIBIU – European Cultural Capital 2007

In 2007, Sibiu was designated European Capital of Culture, alongside Luxembourg - a defining moment that brought the city into the international spotlight. With over 300 cultural events throughout the year, Sibiu showcased its multicultural identity and commitment to European artistic dialogue. The initiative left a lasting impact, establishing the city as a key cultural hub in both Romania and Europe.

SIBIU – History Alive and Inspiration for the Future

Sibiu invites visitors to discover a unique blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty in the heart of Transylvania. With its well-preserved medieval heritage, diverse cultural offerings, and dynamic atmosphere, the city offers countless opportunities for exploration and enrichment. From historical landmarks and museums to lively festivals and local traditions, Sibiu promises an experience that is both memorable and profoundly enriching. Below are some of the noteworthy experiences awaiting visitors in this exceptional city:

− FITS (The Sibiu International Theatre Festival)

The Sibiu International Theatre Festival is one of the most important performing arts festivals in Romania. It features a diverse program of theatre, dance, music, and circus performances from around the world, attracting artists and audiences alike. The festival takes place annually in Sibiu, offering a platform for artistic exchange and cultural celebration.

− Astra Film Festival

Astra Film Festival is a major international documentary film festival. It showcases a wide range of documentaries from around the world, focusing on social, political, and cultural issues. The festival provides a platform for filmmakers and audiences to engage with diverse perspectives and stories.

− ARTmania Festival

ARTmania is a renowned rock and alternative metal music festival held annually in Sibiu. It attracts both international and local artists, creating a vibrant platform for live performances, artistic exhibitions, and cultural activities. Beyond music, ARTmania fosters a creative atmosphere that celebrates contemporary art and alternative culture, making it a significant event in Sibiu’s cultural calendar.

− The Sibiu International Marathon

The Sibiu International Marathon is a running event that takes place annually in Sibiu, Romania. It offers various races, including a marathon, half marathon, and shorter distances, attracting runners of all levels. The event showcases the city's scenic routes and promotes a healthy lifestyle.

− The Christmas Fair

The Christmas Fair in Sibiu is a magical event that takes place every year in the city's Grand Square. It features beautifully decorated stalls, a giant Christmas tree, and a variety of festive activities, including concerts, workshops, and a carousel. Visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian food and drinks, shop for unique gifts, and experience the enchanting atmosphere of the holiday season.

− Sibiu International Street Art Festival (SISAF)

The Sibiu International Street Art Festival is a dynamic event that transforms the cityscape through large-scale murals and street art installations. Drawing talented urban artists from around the world, SISAF revitalizes public spaces and promotes artistic expression in the open air. This festival highlights Sibiu’s commitment to contemporary art and cultural innovation, enriching its urban environment with creativity and colour.

− Feeric Fashion Week

Feeric Fashion Week is the largest fashion event in Eastern Europe, held annually in Sibiu since 2008. It brings together designers from over 20 countries across multiple continents, showcasing their collections in unique and unconventional venues such as medieval fortresses, industrial sites, and open-air spaces. Widely praised by international publications like Vogue Italia, Feeric is known for its innovative approach to fashion presentations and for positioning Sibiu as a creative and cosmopolitan city.

− Transylvania International Film Festival – Sibiu Edition

Since 2007, the Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF), Romania’s most prominent film festival, has included a dedicated edition in Sibiu. Coinciding with the city’s year as European Capital of Culture, this event brings a curated selection of independent and art-house films to local audiences. The Sibiu edition of TIFF also features film workshops, public screenings, and educational programs, enriching the city’s cinematic and cultural landscape.

In terms of architectural style, Sibiu stands out through its harmonious blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance influences, carefully preserved across centuries. One of the city’s most distinctive features is the unique design of its rooftops—many of which are fitted with eye-shaped dormer windows, often referred to as "the eyes of Sibiu." These architectural elements not only serve a practical function of ventilation but also give the buildings a striking, almost watchful character, adding to the city’s charm and mystery. Combined with colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and fortified walls, Sibiu's architecture offers a captivating journey through Central European history.

As a final reflection, Sibiu is more than just a city. It is a living mosaic of cultures, history, and artistic expressions. From its iconic architecture and rich calendar of international festivals to its welcoming atmosphere and deep-rooted traditions, Sibiu offers a truly immersive European experience. Whether you are drawn by its cultural vitality or the charm of its historical streets, a visit to Sibiu promises inspiration, discovery, and lasting memories.

Although the schools were old and did not have the best equipment, they still worked well. Everything was simple and easy to use, such as chalkboards and simple notebooks. The problem was that the building itself had many problems that impeded students' learning efforts, for example small classrooms, bathrooms that were not functional and small gyms.After the pandemic, everything changed and technology became more useful. From then on, students and teachers started to learn how to use technology so they could keep up with their work. Classrooms now often have smartboards, video projectors, and internet access. Science labs have been improved with better materials, and libraries are becoming more digital.That changed everything and now technology makes learning more interesting and helps prepare students for the future.

However, although some schools have smart boards, teachers do not attend training courses to develop their skills and learn interactive methods for using the smart board in a way that creates an engaging lesson, not just by playing a video about the topic. According to a study conducted by the Vodafone Foundation, 3 out of 4 Romanian teachers do not have certified digital skills and are not prepared to use technology in the classroom. Another study, carried out by Epson in 2019, showed that one-third of teachers in urban areas do not know how to use the technology available in their schools. These two studies highlight that although there are investments being made to digitize Romanian education, there are no training programs for teachers, which is a crucial aspect.

Another problem in the Romanian education system is the inclusion of outdated and non-essential subjects, like drawing or music, which are more aligned with individual vocations than with the development of general skills.

A further challenge faced by students is the number of school hours. According to Eurydice data, in the 2020–2021 school year, the European average for lower secondary education was 2,858 hours, while in Romania it was 3,778 hours. The number of hours does not reflect the quality of education, as Romania scores below the European average in PISA tests, despite having nearly 1,000 more hours.

To address the digital divide in Romanian education, teachers need to have focused professional development. Mandating state-funded digital literacy training—such as Estonia's DigiÕppeVaramu model—would enable teachers to be trained technically and pedagogically. The OECD says continuous professional development is one of the most effective ways to improve teaching quality (OECD, Teaching and Learning International Survey, 2019). These courses should emphasize interactive pedagogy through smart boards and learning software in such a way that technology can increase student engagement without replacing active teaching with passive video-watching.

In addition, Romania must reframe its national curriculum by adopting interdisciplinary and competency-based subjects. Aesthetic studies such as music and drawing promote creativity, but they should only be offered as electives rather than part of the obligatory units unless integrated with broader competencies such as media literacy or communication. Finland, for instance, adopted cross-curricular practices that integrate learner interest with outside relevance (Sahlberg, Finnish Lessons, 2015).

To reduce overloading students, teachers must optimize the use of teaching time. Quality rather than quantity is essential with a focus on competence rather than memorial hours. The Ministry of Education can look to countries like the Netherlands or Ireland, where well-structured school hours yield high PISA scores. According to the European Commission's 2022 Education and Training Monitor, aligning learning time with performance—rather than fixed hours—is the solution to further development.

In short, reform must go hand in hand: investment in infrastructure has to be accompanied by teacher training, curricular renewal, and more intelligent use of classroom time.

While technological advancements and modern infrastructure have transformed Romanian schools, true educational progress requires more than just new tools. The lack of teacher training, outdated curriculum content, and excessive classroom hours undermine the potential of these innovations. For the reform to be effective, Romania must invest not only in technology, but also in the continuous professional development of teachers, the modernization of the curriculum, and the optimization of teaching time. Only through a holistic approach can education become both efficient and future-ready.

It all began with my two best friends, Matei and Dudu. Matei plays guitar, Dudu plays drums, and together they made music seem like the most exciting thing in the world. One day, they looked at me and said, “You should buy a bass so we can jam together.” I laughed. Me? Playing music? I had no idea where to even start.

But something about the way they believed in me made me say yes. I trusted them. So, I bought a bass guitar.

At first, everything felt awkward. The strings, the notes, the rhythm — it was all so unfamiliar. But they didn’t let me give up. They showed me the basics, over and over, until my fingers started to remember on their own. And then… we played our first song together: Where Is My Mind by Pixies.

It wasn’t perfect. But when we hit that final note and realized we made it through the whole song, I felt something I’d never felt before — pure happiness, pride, and this strange but beautiful connection to the music.

We started with Nirvana songs — Smells Like Teen Spirit, Drain You — songs that were simple enough for beginners, but filled with raw energy. Every time we played, the excitement in the room was electric. Slowly, we dared to challenge ourselves with more complex songs from Metallica — Orion, Nothing Else Matters. The more we learned, the deeper I fell in love with playing.

Somewhere along the way, my bass guitar stopped being just an object. It became a part of me. It holds the memories of late-night jam sessions, countless mistakes, unstoppable laughter, and those rare, perfect moments when everything clicks, and you feel… free.

Looking back, I realize music gave me more than a hobby. It gave me confidence, joy, and a new way to express who I am. I believe everyone should pick up an instrument at least once in their life. It unlocks emotions, creativity, and a part of yourself you might never discover otherwise.

We live in an era of uncertainty, where the foundations of our world seem increasingly unstable. From climate change and technological disruptions to geopolitical tensions and economic volatility, the future hangs by a fragile thread.

This article aims to make us aware of the instability of our times and the urgent need to act wisely. Our choices today will shape the world of tomorrow will we strengthen the thread holding our future, or will we let it snap under the weight of neglect and short-sightedness?