Basarab I was an early ruler of the principality of Wallachia from perhaps as early as 1310 until 1352 . He is sometimes referred to as Ã ntemeietorul ( `` The Founder '' ) , given his role in the creation of the state , together with his position as common ancestor of rulers in the Basarab dynasty . Basarab I the Founder , also Basarab I the Great ( Basarab cel Mare ) , was voivode or prince of Wallachia ( c. 1310\/1319 â `` 1352 ) .