Romania has experienced a colourful and dramatic history over the past 1,000 years. Under the control of Bulgaria, Hungary and then both the Ottoman and Habsburg empires, it was not until the downfall of the dictatorial communist regime of the Ceausescus that Romania was able to forge its own independent path. Unspoilt Saxon villages, painted monasteries and churches, superbly preserved mediaeval towns and a welcoming people, all combine to create one of the most enigmatic countries in Europe.