leu

The "leu" (pronounced roughly like "lyoo") is the official currency of Romania. Just as Americans use dollars and many Europeans use euros, Romanians use lei for everyday things, from buying fresh pastries at a bakery to paying for a taxi ride through Bucharest. The plural form is "lei." You might hear a shopkeeper say, "That will be 20 lei, please." It is part of daily life in Romania, and understanding it is one of the first steps for any traveler exploring the Carpathian Mountains or the streets of Transylvania.

The word "leu" literally translates to "lion" in Romanian, and this name carries a regal history. The currency's name traces back to the 17th century when the Dutch leeuwendaalder (lion thaler) circulated throughout the Balkans. The silver coin featured a lion, and the name stuck, eventually becoming the official designation for Romania's national currency in 1867. While the currency has weathered periods of economic change and redenomination, the "lion" remains a resilient symbol of the nation's identity.

Today, one leu is divided into 100 bani (which means "money" or "small coins"). A unique feature of the modern leu is that the banknotes are made of polymer—a specialized plastic—making them incredibly durable and even waterproof! These notes come in denominations ranging from 1 to 500 lei, each featuring prominent Romanian figures, such as composers and scientists, alongside beautiful botanical illustrations.

Whether you are navigating bustling markets, dining in a traditional restaurant, or exploring historic castles, the leu is your gateway to Romanian culture. The exchange rate changes against the dollar and the euro, but the leu remains a stable and essential part of Eastern European commerce. So, when you hold a Romanian banknote, remember that you are not just holding money; you are holding a piece of a lion's heritage.