The Tourism Patrimony of Harman Commune
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Situated in the curvature area of the Carpathian Mountains and crossed by river Olt, Harman commune offers a beautiful landscape. Both the locality Harman and the constituent village Podu Olt offer a good rural tourism potential. It has a rich tourism patrimony and can be divided in two categories in terms of attractions: the banks of river Olt in the first category, the nature reserve Dealul Lempes and the nature reserve Harman Swamp and in the second one the anthropic elements. In the centre of the commune there is a fortress-church built in 1290 and the ruins of a 5th century fortress at the top of Lempes hill.
Traditions and Customs
"The Town Hall and the Local Council of Harman are carrying out projects for the sustainable development of the area, as well as projects for the development of the tourism potential and local traditions and customs. Among the most important events of the year there are: The Penasi Ball (January 1rst -8th), the Maial (1rst of May), the Days of Harman (August 15th). Being bordered to Brasov town and situated on the road connecting Brasov to Covasna and Harghita Counties, Harman can be easily reached by those who want to visit the Fortress or take part in cultural events. Another attraction is the Ethnographic Museum of Harman, which includes a unique monographic museal collection. We invite all tourists to visit our region and passionate researchers about nature to discover unique flower species in the nature reserves of Dealul Lempes and Harman Swamp," said Mr. Mihai Disor, Mayor of Harman Commune.
The Penasi Ball and the Maial
The Penasi Ball takes place in the first week after the New Year and symbolizes the young local boys joining the army. They cross the commune, dressed in traditional costumes and wearing a pawn feather pinned to their caps. The show is ended with a community party.
Another cultural event is the Maial, a rustic celebration in honour of the spring season. Initially dedicated to the vegetation god, protector of cattle, horses, fields, vineyards and orchards, it is also called Arminden and it is celebrated on the 1rst of May. The specific customs for this celebration include: hanging a green branch from the pillars of the gates and houses, at the entrance of cattle's shelters and to other annexes, to protect people and animals from evil spirits.
The Days of Harman
The Days of Harman are celebrated in the middle of August, being an opportunity for the locals to have a good time and exhibit their folk costumes. On this occasion, there are folk song and dance artists performing individually or as groups in shows organized in the commune. A craftsmen fair is also organized.
