Discover the tradition of the Brașov Junes — a symbol of Romanian identity, preserved with holiness in the heart of the old neighborhood of Șcheii Brașov.
In the heart of Transylvania, in the old district of Șcheii Brașov, a tradition that transcends time is sacredly preserved: the customs of the Junes of Brașov. These events, with deep roots in Romanian history and spirituality, are more than just celebrations; they represent a real bridge between the past and the present, between ancestral values and contemporary identity.
Origin and Meaning of Junes
The tradition of the Brașov Junes has its origins in the Romanian community of Șcheii Brașov, a historical enclave that has resisted external influences and has preserved the ancestral customs and beliefs unaltered. In a historical context marked by prohibitions and pressures, the Romanians of Șchei found in these traditions a way to assert their identity and preserve their cultural values.
The Junis are organized into distinct groups, each with its own costumes, symbols and roles within the celebrations. Among these groups are the Young Juni, the Old Juni, the Rosiori Juni, the Dorobanti Juni and the Brașovecheni Juni, each with a specific contribution to the performance of the rituals. The traditional, richly ornamented costumes, buzzards and flags of each troupe are expressions of pride and respect for cultural heritage.
Calendar of Traditions: From Annunciation to Tomii Sunday
The year of June begins symbolically on March 25, with the Annunciation, when the “Exit with the Wall” takes place. On this day, Young Juni, accompanied by the desurlaș — the one who plays the bugle, a traditional instrument — carols the streets of Șcheilor, announcing the beginning of the new holiday cycle. This manifestation is followed by a series of customs that are carried out during the Easter period and in the Bright Week.
On Palm Sunday, the Juni organize parastases for the deceased members of the fortresses, demonstrating their deep respect for their predecessors. The second day of Easter is dedicated to the “Splash” or “Walking with the Strochite”, when the Young Junis visit the homes with the girls to marry, sprinkling them with perfume and receiving red eggs and other gifts in return. This tradition symbolizes spiritual purification and renewal.
Tuesday is the day of pies, when the juniors offer traditional pies to passers-by, and Wednesday is dedicated to going out to Solomon's Stones, a place loaded with historical and spiritual significance. On Friday, the “Throwing in the Idle” takes place, an initiation ritual for the new members of the tribe, symbolizing their acceptance and integration into the community.
The culmination of these manifestations is the “Cease Descent”, which takes place on Tomii Sunday. On this day, the juns, dressed intraditional costumes and riding decorated horses, march through the center of Brasov, being greeted by locals and tourists. The event ends withthe Hora of Junilor and the throwing of the bullhorn, symbols of unity and continuity of tradition.
Symbolism and Distinctive Elements
Each element of the Brașov Junor tradition is loaded with symbolism. The buzzer, worn by the leaders of the citadel, represents authority and responsibility. The costumes, different for each group, reflect the diversity and cultural richness of the community. The surla, the traditional tool, is used to announce important events and gather the community.
A unique aspect of these traditions is the specific greeting of Junes: “Christ as He is!” or “Christ vascris!”, formulas that combine Greek and Slavic influences, highlighting the cultural syncretism of the area. Also, the existence of more than sixty troits in the Brașov School, many of them under the protection of the Junes, underlines the deep connection between tradition, faith and identity.
The Tradition of the Junes in the Contemporary Context
Despite the passage of time and social changes, the tradition of Brașov Junes continues to be alive and relevant. The local community, supported by authorities and cultural institutions, makes constant efforts to preserve and promote these customs. The events organized by the Juni attract thousands of visitors every year, contributing to the strengthening of cultural identity and the development of tourism in the region. For those who want to be as close as possible to this authentic spirit, Council Square Brassai Apartments, provides quick access to the main attractions, right in the heart of the old town. It is the ideal place from which to experience the atmosphere of traditional holidays and the charm of the city at the foot of the Tempe.
The Juno Museum, located near Church of Saint Nicholas, it houses an impressive collection of costumes, ritual objects and historical documents, giving visitors a detailed insight into this unique tradition. Through such initiatives, the tradition of Brașov Junilor not only survives, but is reinvented and adapted to modern times, remaining a symbol of Romanian pride and cultural continuity.
The tradition of Brașov Junilor is a living testimony of cultural resilience and community spirit. By preserving and celebrating these customs, the inhabitants of Șchei Brasov offer an example of how tradition can coexist harmoniously with modernity, enriching the cultural and spiritual identity of a community.
