Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, the village of Viscri is a place where time seems to slow down, inviting travelers to step back into a world preserved by tradition and enriched by community. It’s in this picturesque setting that Viscri 32, a unique blend of hospitality and heritage, has taken root, redefining rural revival through the passionate efforts of Alexu and Mara.
The genesis of Viscri 32
In 2016, spurred by a profound desire to shift gears after the urban hustle of Bucharest, Alexu, a former art director and brand strategist, and Mara, an attorney with roots deep in the Romanian countryside, decided to make Viscri their home. The catalyst for this life-altering decision was an evocative visit to the village, which revealed not only the serene landscapes but also a community ready to embrace change.
Viscri 32 started with the acquisition of a traditional Saxon property that included a blue house and two barns, one poised for a transformation that would soon captivate both locals and visitors alike. The decision was spontaneous yet momentous, driven by a vision to create a space that harmonized with their new, quieter lifestyle and provided tangible benefits to the community they were joining.
Overcoming the old with the new
The journey of transforming Viscri 32 was anything but straightforward. Initial enthusiasm was quickly tempered by the realities of renovation costs and the complexities of restoring heritage structures. With no previous experience in such endeavors, Alexu and Mara faced a steep learning curve. The couple sold their apartment, took out loans, and embarked on a journey of physical and financial rebuilding that saw them invest over €350,000 over six years.
Their approach was deeply rooted in the local architecture and traditions. They replaced modern interventions with traditional materials like handmade bricks and river stone, engaging local craftsmen whose knowledge of Saxon techniques was indispensable. The restoration of the blue house and the white barn was guided by these principles, ensuring that each space not only served its new function as part of the guesthouse and restaurant but also stood as a testament to the region’s architectural heritage.
Reinventing slow food
The heart of Viscri 32 beats in its slow food restaurant, established in response to the community’s need for a dining venue and as a platform for Mara to delve into Transylvanian cuisine. The menu changes daily, reflecting the availability of local, fresh ingredients sourced within a 70-kilometer radius, ensuring each dish offers the authentic flavors of the region.
Sustainability and community engagement
Viscri 32 isn’t just a business; it’s a community hub. As the largest employer in the village, the project has provided much-needed job opportunities for the locals, many of whom had no prior employment. Alexu and Mara have made it a point to hire from within the community, providing training and support to those new to the hospitality industry. This approach has not only helped reduce rural depopulation but has also fostered a strong sense of community and local pride.
A never-ending labor of love
Today, Viscri 32 stands as a beacon of rural revitalization, with its restored buildings and thriving business. But for Alexu and Mara, the work is never complete. The property is a constant work-in-progress, a living project that continues to evolve with each passing season.
Visitors to Viscri 32 can expect an experience that blends rustic authenticity with subtle modern comforts. Whether staying in the quaint blue house or dining in the transformed barn, guests are treated to an atmosphere that speaks volumes of the love and dedication that has gone into every stone laid and every recipe created.
As Viscri 32 continues to grow and inspire, it serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty of simplicity and the strength of community-led heritage conservation. This small village project, driven by two individuals’ commitment to their new home and its history, has become a cornerstone of the local economy and a must-visit destination on the cultural map of Transylvania.
For more information or to book a stay, visit our website and become part of this ongoing story of transformation and renewal.
