Petrila is a small town in Romania, located in the Jiu Valley, Hunedoara county and has a population of approximately 22,000 people. Despite its small size, Petrila is a town that has a rich history and unique characteristics that make it stand out.

One of the most important things to note about Petrila is its industrial heritage. The town was founded in the early 19th century as a mining settlement, and it quickly grew to become an important center of the coal mining industry. For many years, the mines in Petrila were a significant source of employment and income for the local community, and they played a vital role in the development of the entire Jiu Valley region.

The mining industry in Petrila, however, experienced a decline in the 1990s due to a lack of investment and modernization. Many of the mines were shut down, including the one in Petrila, leading to a significant economic downturn in the area. Despite this, the town has managed to reinvent itself and find new sources of growth and development.

The coal mine complex

The former coal mine in Petrila was one of the deepest mine in the entire Jiu Valley, it had a depth of approximately 1000 meters. Unfortunately, it was closed back in 2015 after the last ton of coal was brought up from the mine. Today only some industrial and administrative buildings remained on the large mine complex. In one of the former administrative building, right next to the main entrance you will find the Museum of the Mine Rescuer which I definitely recommend to visit it.

The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila

The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila, Romania is dedicated to the history of mine rescue and the courageous individuals who risked their lives to save others in the dangerous mining industry.

The museum is located in yhe former mining complex in the town of Petrila, which was once a hub for coal mining in the Jiu Valley region of Romania. The museum’s exhibits include photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays that illustrate the history of mine rescue, from the early days of mining in the 19th century to the modern era.

Visitors to the museum can learn about the equipment and techniques used by mine rescuers, as well as the training and preparation required to undertake these dangerous missions. The museum also pays tribute to the miners who lost their lives in mining accidents, and the efforts made to improve safety in the mining industry.

The Museum of the Mine Rescuer in Petrila is an important cultural institution in Romania and a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of mining and the bravery of those who worked in this challenging industry.

Close to the museum you can also explore the small miner school which was established within the Petrila coal mine complex, and its primary purpose was to provide training and education for the mine workers.

Industrial buildings

Below I’ve shared a couple of pictures of the buildings which once were used to bring up the black gold from the depths of the earth and process it in to other products.

What can you visit near Petrila?

• The Taii Gorge, also known as the “Gorge of the Taii River”, is a stunning natural landmark located near the town of Petrila in the Jiu Valley region of Romania. The gorge was formed by the Taii River as it flows through the Carpathian Mountains, and it is known for its rugged cliffs, towering rock formations, and crystal-clear water.
• In the Parang Mountains – there is a place not far from Petrila from where a large part of the Jiu Valley is visible including the Parang and the Retezat Mountains. You can easily reach this place by car.

The Romanian commune of Coronini is located near the banks of the Danube River, right before the entrance into the Danube Gorge. This enchanting commune is surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes, and is filled with rich history and culture.

One of the most striking features of Coronini is its untouched beauty. The village is situated at the entrance to the Danube Gorge, a breathtaking canyon that is filled with lush greenery, and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The nearby mountains offer spectacular views, and the Danube river provides a tranquil backdrop for the village.

For those looking for adventure, Coronini has plenty to offer. The nearby Danube river is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, and fishing, while the surrounding mountains are perfect for hiking and exploring. The commune is also home to a number of restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine and soak up the local atmosphere.

If you wish to discover the beauty of the Danube Gorge then I highly recommend to drive from Coronini next to the Danube to the port city of Orsova.

The Golubac Fortress

The Golubac Fortress is a stunning historic structure located next to the Danube river in Serbia. From the village of Coronini in Romania, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of this impressive fortress.

Built in the 14th century, the Golubac Fortress is a testament to the area’s rich history and culture. The fortress played an important role in the defense of the Danube River, and was a key strategic location during numerous conflicts and battles

Today, visitors to the area can marvel at the fortress’s imposing walls and towers, which are perched atop a rocky cliff overlooking the Danube River. From the village of Coronini, the fortress is visible in the distance, providing a stunning backdrop for the surrounding natural scenery.

One of the best ways to experience the Golubac Fortress is to take a boat tour along the Danube River. From the water, visitors can get a closer look at the fortress and its many impressive features. The fortress’s imposing walls and towers can be seen up close, and visitors can also explore the many rooms and chambers of the fortress.

For those interested in history and culture, the Golubac Fortress is a must-see destination. The fortress is home to numerous exhibitions and displays, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich past. Visitors can learn about the fortress’s many battles and conflicts, and can explore the many artifacts and treasures that have been uncovered in the surrounding area.

The Baba Caia

Next to the commune of Coronini, you will find a smaller cliff which rises from the Danube. That cliff is called Baba Caia and over the years, several legends have been woven around it. This 7 meter height cliff actually marks the entrance to the Danube Gorge.

The Ladislau Fortress

The Ladislau Fortress can be found on top of a small hill located close to the outskirts of the village of Coronini. You can easily spot it from the main road as you drive trough Coronini towards Orsova. Currently this fortress is under renovation therefore it is not open for the tourists.

What else can you see near Coronini?

• Not very far from Coronini you will find two beautiful waterfalls, the first would be Buraul Mare and the second one is Modavita.
• Near the small village of Bazias you can actually see where the mighty Danube river enters Romania.

Located in Banat Mountains, in the southern part of Romania, not far from the beautiful Danube River,  the Modavita Waterfall is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, the Modavita Waterfall is a natural wonder that is sure to take your breath away.

This waterfall can visited all year round, even in winter the flow of water was strong enough to make the waterfall even more interesting and beautiful.

It’s worth mentioning that this spot can sometimes get crowded with tourists who come to see the waterfall. During our visit, at least two cars stopped, and people got out to admire the view and take pictures.

How to get here?

The waterfall is easily accessible from the nearby small town of Moldova Noua, those who want to visit this natural wonder can take a short drive to the waterfall. It’s only about 9 km away from the outskirts of the city. The road from town to the waterfall was in good condition, except for a very short stretch right at the outskirts of Moldova Noua.

Make sure to visit the Buraul Mare!

On your way to the Modavita Waterfall, make sure to stop by the Buraul Mare Waterfall. It’s just about 2 kilometers before Modavita and is definitely worth a visit.

What else can you visit in the area?

• Coronini is a great place to stop and admire the beautiful Danube River. From here, you can also see the famous Golubac Fortress on the opposite side, in Serbia, standing proudly on the riverbank. It’s a breathtaking view that shouldn’t be missed,
• A little further along, you’ll reach Balta Nera, the exact spot where the Danube River officially enters Romania. This is an important geographical point and a great place to appreciate the river’s journey as it flows into the country.