Research report on Transylvanian traces in Starchiojd commune, Prahova county

Abstract

This paper puts into perspective documented episodes of migration in Prahova County, shedding light on historically overlooked aspects. It focuses on the demographic, rural, and urban evolution of settlements in Prahova, particularly exploring migrations from Transylvania to the Prahova region beyond the Carpathian arc. The study seeks to understand the impact of these migrations on villages and towns, examining their influence on the local living environment. Utilizing a historical-anthropological methodology, the research aims to present contemporary traces of these migrants, referred to as "ungureni," and their contribution to the culture of the Prahova region, with specific attention to the settlements of Starchiojd. We will try to analyze available sources related to the history of the Starchiojd commune, with a specific focus on identifying historical "fragments". The primary objective is to investigate the presence of Transylvanian elements and examine their impact on the local space and society within the studied area. Once brought to light and arranged chronologically, these episodes will significantly contribute to the reconstruction and deeper understanding of the local past. During the research process, it is crucial not to isolate the particular space from its historical and geographical context. On the contrary, it should be studied through comparison. This approach allows for the identification of aspects such as the presence of a minority integrated among the locals, cultural exchanges, or influences on indigenous products (songs, legends, toponyms, attire, etc.). These findings can highlight the cultural differences that define the respective community in relation to the majority. This paper puts into perspective documented episodes of migration in Prahova County, shedding light on historically overlooked aspects. It focuses on the demographic, rural, and urban evolution of settlements in Prahova, particularly exploring migrations from Transylvania to the Prahova region beyond the Carpathian arc. The study seeks to understand the impact of these migrations on villages and towns, examining their influence on the local living environment. Utilizing a historical-anthropological methodology, the research aims to present contemporary traces of these migrants, referred to as "ungureni," and their contribution to the culture of the Prahova region, with specific attention to the settlements of Starchiojd. We will try to analyze available sources related to the history of the Starchiojd commune, with a specific focus on identifying historical "fragments". The primary objective is to investigate the presence of Transylvanian elements and examine their impact on the local space and society within the studied area. Once brought to light and arranged chronologically, these episodes will significantly contribute to the reconstruction and deeper understanding of the local past. During the research process, it is crucial not to isolate the particular space from its historical and geographical context. On the contrary, it should be studied through comparison. This approach allows for the identification of aspects such as the presence of a minority integrated among the locals, cultural exchanges, or influences on indigenous products (songs, legends, toponyms, attire, etc.). These findings can highlight the cultural differences that define the respective community in relation to the majority. This paper puts into perspective documented episodes of migration in Prahova County, shedding light on historically overlooked aspects. It focuses on the demographic, rural, and urban evolution of settlements in Prahova, particularly exploring migrations from Transylvania to the Prahova region beyond the Carpathian arc. The study seeks to understand the impact of these migrations on villages and towns, examining their influence on the local living environment. Utilizing a historical-anthropological methodology, the research aims to present contemporary traces of these migrants, referred to as "ungureni," and their contribution to the culture of the Prahova region, with specific attention to the settlements of Starchiojd. We will try to analyze available sources related to the history of the Starchiojd commune, with a specific focus on identifying historical "fragments". The primary objective is to investigate the presence of Transylvanian elements and examine their impact on the local space and society within the studied area.