The AER Summer Schools 2006 attracted some 200 participants from 52 regions out of 21 European countries. The city of Baia Mare (pop. 150,000) - a trade and former mining center, hence its name : 'Big Mine' - hosted the event in its brand new state-of-the-art Millennium Center, nestled in the heart of the city's rejuvenated Piata Libertatii, next to the 'Turnul Stefan', the city oldest monument and a local icon. Although participants spent most of their time working during this week-long event - attending seminars and interactive workshops -, they were lucky enough to get a grasp of Maramures' rich cultural heritage, comprising some famous UNESCO-listed 'biserici de lemn' (wooden churches) and traditional ceremonies.