Peace Pole in Constanța, Dobrogea Region of ROMANIA
June 7, 2025
Greetings!
My name is Codrin Raita, and I am a Past President of the Rotary Club Cetatea Tomis Constanța, part of District 2241 Romania & Republic of Moldova.
Story:
My rotary club had the honor of planting a Peace Pole in Constanța, Dobrogea Region of Romania. This region serves as a remarkable example of multiculturalism in Europe, as it is home to 18 ethnic communities coexisting in harmony.
“May Peace Prevail On Earth,” written in all the languages of the region’s ethnic groups, is a powerful testament to coexistence and mutual respect. This inscription embodies the essence of Dobrogea: a place where cultures intertwine, traditions are shared, and unity prevails despite differences.
By installing this Peace Pole, we aimed to set a positive example within our community and raise awareness about the devastating consequences of war. This initiative holds special significance given our proximity to Ukraine, where an ongoing armed conflict continues to bring immense suffering to the population.
Many Ukrainian refugees have found shelter and a new beginning here in Constanța. Dobrogea, the region encompassing Constanța and Tulcea counties, is a remarkable example of multiculturalism due to its deep-rooted ethnic and cultural diversity.
This region, located between the Danube River and the Black Sea, has been home to numerous ethnic groups that have coexisted peacefully, shaping a unique cultural mosaic.
Historical and Cultural Background
Dobrogea has been influenced by various civilizations, including the Geto-Dacians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Each of these cultures has left its mark on the region, contributing to its distinctive identity. The peaceful coexistence of different ethnic communities has fostered an environment of mutual respect and cultural exchange.
Ethnic Groups in Dobrogea
Dobrogea is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including:
- Romanians – The majority population, deeply connected to the region’s history and traditions.
- Turks – Present since the Ottoman era, contributing to the cultural and culinary landscape.
- Tatars – Descendants of the Crimean Tatars, known for their rich traditions and distinct language.
- Russians Lipovans – A community that fled religious persecution in Russia, preserving their customs and Orthodox faith.
- Greeks – Historically involved in trade and maritime activities, leaving a strong cultural imprint.
- Aromanians – A Balkan ethnic group with a distinct language and traditions.
- Bulgarians – Settled in Dobrogea due to historical migrations, contributing to the agricultural and cultural heritage.
- Italians – Arrived during the 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing architecture and trade.
- Germans – Historically present in the region, particularly in agricultural and industrial sectors.
- Ukrainians – A community with strong cultural ties to the northern regions.
- Albanians – A smaller but historically significant group.
- Jews – Once a thriving community, contributing to commerce and intellectual life.
- Roma – A community with deep-rooted traditions and cultural expressions.
- Hungarians and many more …
Multicultural Harmony
Dobrogea’s ethnic diversity has led to a unique model of coexistence, where different communities have borrowed traditions from one another, creating a rich and harmonious cultural landscape. Education plays a crucial role in maintaining this balance, as schools promote intercultural understanding and respect among students from various backgrounds.
Dobrogea stands as a living testament to the beauty of diversity, proving that multiple cultures can thrive together, enriching society through their traditions, languages, and shared history.