Events · Brașov
Junii Brașovului — Coborârea în Cetate
On the first Sunday after Easter, Brașov's Șchei district dons its festive best: bands of mounted young men (juni) ride down from the neighborhood toward the heart of the citadel, hurling maces into the sun and shouting "Christ is risen!". A tradition attested since 1728.
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At a glance
Distance from MAX ≈20 km Travel time 21 min by car Town BrașovAbout the place
The day the people of Șchei ride down to the citadel
On Thomas Sunday, the first Sunday after Orthodox Easter, Brașov's historic Șchei district lives out one of the most spectacular urban folk festivals in Romania. Dozens of juni, young men and men in gala dress, mount adorned horses and set out from the Romanian neighborhood beneath Mount Tâmpa toward the old center of the city. It is a procession documented as far back as 1728, kept alive for centuries and halted only during the communist period, between 1948 and 1968.
The bands of juni and their attire
The festival is upheld by seven groups, each with its own rules, insignia and dress: the Young Juni and the Old Juni, alongside the Curcani, Dorobanți, Brașovecheni, Roșiori and Albiori. The costumes range from the white shirt and fur cap to gold braid, feathers and red trousers, and each band has its own leader (vătaf) and mace. Most groups represent the Șchei, while one belongs to the Old Brașov.
The descent into the Citadel and the mace
The groups set out from the wayside shrines and crosses of the district, gather in Unirii Square in Șchei, and then descend toward the citadel through the Șchei Gate, a gesture full of meaning: an affirmation of the Romanians' belonging to the city to which, for centuries, they had only restricted access. The climax takes place at Solomon's Stones (Pietrele lui Solomon), a natural amphitheater on the edge of the city, where the juni dance the hora and hurl the heavy mace toward the sky, catching it at a gallop. The old object, with roots reaching back to pagan spring rituals, took on after Christianization a symbolism linked to the Holy Trinity.
Between spring rite and Christian feast
Beyond the spectacle, the Juni bring together two layers: the ancient celebration of nature's revival and the triumph of light, over which the Paschal joy has settled, with the troparion of the Resurrection sung at every stop. It is at once a rite of passage for the community's young men and an occasion of pride for all of Brașov.
How to get there from Râșnov
Brașov lies about 15 kilometers from Râșnov, where MAX International is located, so the festival can easily be caught on a day trip. As it is an event held annually, depending on the date of Easter, check the schedule and route on the official source before your visit, since the times and locations may change from one year to the next.
Frequently asked questions
Unde au loc Junii Brașovului?În Șcheii Brașovului, cu urcare spre cetate — la circa 25 min cu mașina din Râșnov.
What is the MAX International Local Guide?A guide to attractions, trails and events in the Râșnov–Brașov–Bran area, designed as an information point for MAX International guests. Each attraction shows the distance from MAX, a map and access details.
How far are the attractions from MAX International?It varies: from a few kilometres (Râșnov Citadel, Valea Cetății Cave) up to about 50 km (Bușteni, Sinaia). Each page shows the approximate distance and driving time from MAX.
Ce este parada Junilor Brașovului?O paradă ecvestră și culturală în care șapte cete de Juni în costume tradiționale străbat Șcheii Brașovului și urcă spre cetate — una dintre cele mai vechi tradiții din România.
Is the guide's information verified?Yes. Every published attraction has a confirmed official source and map. Opening hours and prices can change seasonally, so please check the official link before your visit.
Când au loc Junii Brașovului?În prima duminică după Paște, conform calendarului ortodox.
Can I ask for recommendations at the MAX International reception?Yes. The MAX International reception and concierge can help with recommendations, transfers and bookings, based on the season and your preferences.
How do I reach the attractions without a car?The MAX reception can help with a private transfer or transport information. Nearby attractions (Râșnov Citadel, Râșnov town centre) are easily reachable on foot.
What is the best time to visit the area?The area is attractive year-round: summer for trails and caves, winter for slopes and cable cars. Each attraction indicates its recommended season.
Can I book accommodation near these attractions?Yes — MAX International Râșnov is a central base for exploring the area. See the accommodation section or message us on WhatsApp for availability.
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