Miercurea-Ciuc (Csíkszereda), the seat of Harghita County, is a city in the eastern part of Transylvania, geographically located in the center of the Ciuc Basin, at the intersection of two important trade routes: the north-south route following the Olt River and the east-west route stretching from the Gyimes region to the Küküllő area.

Its geographical position as a meeting point has shaped the city’s history, its role in the region, and its symbols up to the present day. The city developed near the site of weekly markets held on Wednesdays, at the borders of the 12th–13th century settlements of Somlyó, Taploca, and Zsögöd. Today and in the future, the county seat aspires to continue serving as a meeting point where economy and culture connect, and where our created and diverse values from all areas of life converge.

Being surrounded by mountains, we have a rich biodiversity and plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature at its best. The region’s post-volcanic activity has resulted in numerous carbonated mineral springs (locally known as borvíz) and mofettas (emissions of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide gases). These natural resources are significant assets for the region’s gastronomic, balneological, and health tourism.  

In Miercurea Ciuc, history and modernity coexist harmoniously. The preservation of cultural heritage is supported by landmarks such as the over 400-year-old Mikó Castle, home to the Csíki Székely Museum, which hosts both historical and contemporary exhibitions, and the baroque-style pilgrimage church of Csíksomlyó, one of Europe’s major Marian shrines and pilgrimage sites, a cornerstone of the European Marian Route. The Csíki Játékszín (theatre), Csíki Mozi (cinema), and the Hargita Székely Folk Dance Theater offer meaningful entertainment and experiences for all age groups.

Annual religious, traditional, and cultural events—such as the Pentecost Pilgrimage of Csíksomlyó, the Day of the Thousand Székely Girls, The Days of the TOwn, the Jazz Festival, the Early Music Festival, UNSCENE – Festival of Art Universities, Csürdöngölő folk dance festival, and many more—are vibrant expressions of the local community’s rich social life.

Thanks to its tradition-respecting yet forward-looking community, our city is culturally and naturally exciting, and increasingly strong in both economy and tourism. The long, snowy and icy winters have made it possible for the city to become a homeland of winter sports. In recent years, alongside ice hockey, other sports such as football and judo and many more have also gained prominence.

Further information about the city can be found on the www.szereda.ro website.