Coresi

Coresi (also spelled Coressi) refers primarily to a group of Romanian printers and copyists active in the 16th century, particularly in Brașov, Transylvania. They are significant figures in the history of Romanian literature and language, being among the first to produce books in the Romanian language.

The "Coresi Workshop" or "School of Coresi" was not a single individual but a collective of scribes and printers who worked under the leadership, or inspiration, of a figure known as Diaconul Coresi (Deacon Coresi). The exact identity and biography of Deacon Coresi remain somewhat unclear, as historical records are incomplete. However, he is generally regarded as the leading figure behind this early printing activity.

The works attributed to the Coresi group are mainly religious texts, including psalters, prayer books, and biblical excerpts. These publications played a crucial role in standardizing and disseminating the Romanian language and in preserving religious texts for the Orthodox community within Transylvania and beyond.

The significance of Coresi and the Coresi Workshop lies in their contribution to the development of a written Romanian language and the preservation of Romanian culture during a period when Romanian-speaking territories were under foreign rule. Their printed works represent some of the earliest examples of written Romanian and offer valuable insights into the language and culture of the era.

The term "Coresi" can also, less frequently, be used to refer to any descendant or individual associated with the original printing group, reflecting a legacy of literacy and cultural preservation.