When Caroline Fernolend walks through the cobbled lanes of Viscri, every stone, every corner, holds a memory—of a past she refused to let slip away, and a future she helped build with care. As President of the Mihai Eminescu Trust Foundation Romania, Caroline has been the heart behind the revival of this once-forgotten village, turning it into a symbol of what happens when heritage meets vision.

Her story begins in Viscri itself, born into the Transylvanian Saxon community—a people who, since the 12th century, built strong, self-sufficient villages. Life was about community. Caroline recalls how, when her roof needed fixing, neighbors came together, asking only for a glass of rachie and a slice of bread in return. But after communism fell, many Saxons left for Germany. Viscri grew quiet. Abandoned.

Caroline stayed.

In 1996, determined to revive her village, she attended a tourism fair in traditional dress, sharing Viscri’s story. The village was soon featured in the Guide du Routard, drawing its first visitors. Caroline welcomed them into her home, sharing meals, and learning how to promote Viscri.

In 1998, King Charles III (then Prince of Wales) visited and became the Foundation’s patron. With his support, Caroline led projects to restore houses, train locals, and preserve traditions. Viscri became a model of sustainable development, even installing Romania’s first ecological, energy-free wastewater treatment plant.

Beyond infrastructure, she started the Village Clean-Up Day, the Saxon Reunion, and the Agricultural Association, all to support and connect the community. Today, visitors from around the world come to Viscri. Caroline’s challenge now? Balancing tourism with tradition.

After decades of dedication, she is slowly stepping back, focusing on family and passing the torch. Her legacy lives in the village she helped save—a place where the past is honored, and the future is shaped by care.