Siebenbürgenlied (Siebenbürgen, Land des Segens) - Seltene alte Filmaufnahmen

The Transylvanian Saxons are an ethnic group whose origins trace back to the 12th century, when German settlers, primarily from the areas of modern-day Germany, were invited to colonize the region of Transylvania (Ger.: Siebenbürgen)(present-day Romania). These settlers were brought to bolster the defense of the land, cultivate the territory, and stimulate the economy. They were granted extensive privileges, notably the Golden Privilege issued by King Andrew II of Hungary in 1224, which provided them with substantial autonomy, including their own jurisdiction and political representation, known as the Nations University. Over the centuries, the Transylvanian Saxons played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural, religious, and economic landscape of the region. They founded major cities such as Sibiu (Hermannstadt), Brașov (Kronstadt), and Sighișoara (Schäßburg), and established their own legal system, which remained largely independent for centuries. Their autonomous institutions, especially the Nations University, became a cornerstone of Saxon identity in Transylvania. With the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the subsequent political upheavals of the 20th century, the German-speaking population of Transylvania underwent significant changes. Following the annexation of Transylvania by Romania in 1920 and the geopolitical shifts that ensued, the number of Transylvanian Saxons began to decline sharply, particularly after World War II. Many emigrated, and the community gradually assimilated into the broader Romanian state structure. Today, the population of Transylvanian Saxons in Romania has dwindled to approximately 14,000, and their cultural and linguistic heritage is increasingly influenced by the national and international context. However, they remain an integral part of Romania’s historical and cultural fabric, with their legacy continuing to shape the region’s identity. Lyrics: Siebenbürgen, Land des Segens, Land der Fülle und der Kraft. Mit dem Gürtel der Karpaten um das grüne Kleid der Saaten, Land voll Gold und Rebensaft. Siebenbürgen, Meeresboden einer längst verfloss'nen Flut; nun ein Meer von Ährenwogen, dessen Ufer waldumzogen, an der Brust des Himmels ruht. Siebenbürgen, Land der Duldung, jedes Glaubens sich'rer Hort. Mögst du bis zu fernen Tagen als ein Hort der Freiheit ragen, und als Wehr dem freien Wort! Siebenbürgen, süße Heimat, unser teures Vaterland! Sei gegrüßt in deiner Schöne, und um alle deine Söhne schlinge sich der Eintracht Band!