Transylvanian Saxon culture as heritage: Insights from Viscri, Romania

The case of the multi-ethnic village of Viscri, Romania, is analyzed through a qualitative research method. The study highlights that the image of the village, promoted by foreign experts and some influential Transylvanian Saxons, is based on the heritage of the few Saxons inhabitants left, considered as the most worthy of preservation, while the legacy of the rest of the population, consisting of Romanians and Roma, is overshadowed. Study results indicate that the community does not necessarily perceive heritage the same way the experts do. The village residents have mixed feelings towards the Transylvanian Saxon heritage and the restoration and development actions related to it, with some residents accepting to be the custodians of Saxons’ heritage and others showing disappointment because of the persisting economic hardships. It is suggested that the core of heritagisation processes ought to rely on inclusion, because marginal as well as strong groups need to have real chances and tools to enable them to effectively reflect on their identities and their aspirations.