There is something captivating about natural openness, where vision is used to its fullest capability. The Transylvanian landscape is stunning from its untouched demeanor and richness. As a Pennsylvanian native I have seen several marvelous views and outlooks on the state’s natural beauty, but it seems to lack that ancient quality rooted in the Transylvanian landscape. For example, our group embarked on an early morning hiking trip and we were led to the view of a 13/14th century castle ruins sitting peacefully on a hilltop with sheep grazing at it’s foundation. Around it were other hills that looked like giant, green pyramids. I went to the castle and climbed it. I can hardly remember a time when I felt so enthralled by the simple genuineness of a landscape. I looked out from atop the ruins and I felt humbled from my tiny presence in this vast community of mountains and hills. And i think the others felt the same. A feeling of tranquility knowing that the world is not fully discovered, that the hubbub of the city is not all encompassing but far from it, that perhaps for a moment one senses the purest form of peace: quiet. Ah, but enough of these romantic reflections for now.

Location: körösfő