Category: Romania

Category dedicated for all the photos taken in the country of Romania.

  • The Truncated Tower in Salonta

    The Truncated Tower in Salonta

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    On our way back home from Oradea, we decided to make a short stop in Salonta to visit the Truncated tower which is also known as the Ciunt Tower. The place was unfortunately closed when we arrived there, so I was able to capture only some exterior shots of the building.

    The Truncated tower was built in the 16th century and its main purpose was to protect the lives of the soldiers and their families which were living in this small settlement. Back then, this place was occupied by the Ottoman empire along with other parts of the country.

    The Truncated/Ciunt Tower in Salonta.

    Right on the opposite side of the Truncated tower, you will find a larger park just in case you if you want to make a short brake in this small city.

    Statue in the park
  • The Soimos Fortress in the Mures Valley

    The Soimos Fortress in the Mures Valley

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    The Soimos Fortress is located near the small town of Lipova in Arad County, Romania. To reach the fortress ruins, you’ll need to take a short but steep hike, as the fortress was built on top of a large hill. The trail begins just past an abandoned house on the outskirts of Soimos village, right off the main road. The hike usually takes around 30 minutes, including a few short breaks to catch your breath and enjoy the views.

    Built in the 13th century, the Șoimoș Fortress became a significant military base when the Ottomans occupied it in 1552. However, in 1788, the fortress was completely abandoned. Despite its long abandonment, the fortress remains a popular destination, drawing visitors eager to explore its historic ruins and experience the stunning scenery from its hilltop vantage point.

    The Mures Valley

    When you reach the fortress, you’re rewarded with stunning views over a large stretch of the Mures Valley. From this vantage point, you can see the winding Mures River below, flowing peacefully through the valley. Off in the distance, you can also spot the church towers of the Maria Radna Monastery, a historic landmark that stands out beautifully against the landscape. The nearby village of Radna is also visible, adding to the charm of the scene. The panoramic view from the fortress is a highlight for visitors, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and glimpses of local history.

    The Mures Valley seen from the fortress.
    The Mures Valley.
    Maria Radna Monastery’s church towers, view from the Soimos fortress.
    The Maria Radna Monastery church.

    Interior of the Soimos Fortress

    Inside the fortress, you’ll mostly find scattered ruins, with little else remaining of its former structures. Still, wandering through these remnants allows you to imagine what life here might have been like when the fortress was bustling with activity.

    Ruins inside the Soimos Fortress.
    Old ruins of the fortress.
    Supporting elements built in order to sustain the ruins.
    Supporting elements built to sustain a part of the wall.
    Ruins in the fortress.
    Ruins.
    Old arches which are still standing
    Old arches.
    Small path next to the fotress
    Path leading to the front of the fortress.

    In front of the fortress

    A narrow path leads you to a spot directly in front of the fortress, where you can take in the full view and capture some memorable photos. From this vantage point, you can admire the entire Soimos Fortress with the vast Mures Valley stretching out below. The view includes the winding Mures River, with the town of Lipova on the left bank and the village of Radna on the right. This sweeping landscape, dotted with historic landmarks and natural beauty, adds a sense of timelessness to the fortress experience.

    The Soimos Fortress and the Mures Valley.
    The Soimos Fortress
    The city of Lipova and Radna.
    The city of Lipova and Radna as seen from the fortress.

    What to visit near the Soimos Fortress

    • The Șiria Fortress – this is another old fortress located 30 km away from this place in the Zarand Mountains.
    • Maria Radna Monastery – this monastery is actually very close to the Șoimoș Fortress and you should check it out especially if you are in the area.
    • The Săvârșin Castle – if you plan to drive in the Mureș valley towards Deva then you can plan a short stop at the former residence of King Michael of Romania in Săvârșin.
  • The Jiet Gorge In The Parang Mountains

    The Jiet Gorge In The Parang Mountains

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    The day I visited Taii Gorge, I decided to explore another nearby spot, Jiet Gorge, which is just 10 kilometers away. After enjoying the peaceful beauty of Taii Gorge, I headed back to Lonea and made my way toward Jiet Gorge. This gorge is tucked between the stunning Parang Mountains, with a scenic main road running through it that leads up to Obarsia Lotrului. From there, you can even continue on the famous TransAlpina road, which winds all the way to Ranca—a popular ski resort in winter.

    The Ranger’s Waterfall

    One of the highlights of Jiet Gorge is the Ranger’s Waterfall, called “Dusul Padurarului” in Romanian. This small but beautiful waterfall is right by the main road, making it easy to stop and admire. For those who enjoy photography, a path alongside the Jiet River provides various viewpoints of the falls and the lush, surrounding landscape.

    The Ranger's Waterfall
    The Ranger’s waterfall or Dusul Padurarului in Romanian.
    Dusul Padurarului waterfall in the Jiet Gorge.
    The waterfall in slow-motion.
    Jiet river next to the main road
    The Jiet river next to the road in the gorge.

    The nature near Groapa Seaca

    My last stop in Jiet Gorge was at a cozy cabin called Groapa Seaca. After a short hike through the nearby forest, I started my drive back toward Petrosani as the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the mountains.

    Near Groapa Seaca
    The scenery at Groapa Seaca.
    Mist in the forest.
    Mist in the forest during sunset.
    Inside a large pine tree forest.
    Inside a pine forest.
    The forest near Groapa Seaca
    Sunset light hits the forest.

    Other Places to Visit Nearby

    If you have time, I recommend visiting the Miner Rescuer’s Museum in the nearby city of Petrila. The museum is located on the grounds of the former coal mine, which was closed in 2015. Inside, you can see different types of equipment used by rescuers over the years and learn about their important and dangerous work in mining rescue operations.

  • The Charming Taii Gorge Near Petrila

    The Charming Taii Gorge Near Petrila

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    Just outside the former mining city of Petrila, around 5 kilometers from its center, lies the beautiful Tăii Gorge. This scenic spot is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy nature and explore the outdoors.

    To get to Tăii Gorge, you need to drive towards the small town of Lonea. As you approach the bridge over the Jiu River, make a left turn right before crossing. From there, simply follow the winding road through the mountains, which will eventually lead you to the entrance of the gorge.

    The drive itself is peaceful, with towering mountains on either side. If you continue along this road, it will guide you further to a picturesque area called Lunca Florii, where the landscape opens up beautifully. Keep in mind that road is in a pretty bad condition after Taii Gorge.

    The starting point of the Tăii gorge which is located near Petrila.
    The road in the small gorge.
    Small cabin built on the cliff.
    Small cabin built on a cliff.
    The Tăii Gorge.
    Taii Gorge.
    Stream flowing in the gorge.
    River flowing between the steep cliffs.
    The mountains covered with snow in the distance.
    Mountains covered with snow.

    What else to visit in the area:

    • The former Petrila coal mine – actually you are allowed to visit only a small part of the mine. Next to the main entrance, you will find a couple of administrative buildings and in one of them you will find a very interesting museum with all sorts of mining equipment which once were used by the miners in rescue operations.
    • The Parang Mountains –  not far from Petrila, there is a beautiful vantage point from where the entire Jiu valley is visible. If you are lucky enough, you can even spot the tips of the Parang Mountains.
  • The Historic Center of Sibiu

    The Historic Center of Sibiu

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    The historic center of Sibiu, Romania, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming cobblestone streets, the historic center is a captivating blend of Germanic, Hungarian, and Romanian influences.

    On the Citadel Street (Strada Cetății) you will find a couple of important old landmarks like the Potter’s Tower and the Carpenter’s Tower. You can visit the interior of those towers if you want but you will have to pay for a ticket. Walking along the walls offers visitors a chance to appreciate the strategic planning that went into protecting Sibiu.

    These old towers can be found almost at the edge of the historic center of this beautiful Transylvanian city.

    The Carpenter's tower.
    The Carpenter’s Tower.
    The Potter's tower
    The Potter’s Tower

    Continuing our walk towards the Large Square in the historic center, I discovered another amazing building. The white building from the image below is the Imparatul Romanilor Hotel.

    Imparatul Romanilor Hotel.
    Imparatul Romanilor Hotel near the Large Square.

    The Large Square

    Another popular place in Sibiu is the Large Square where you will find many landmarks to visit. Besides the historical landmarks, you will also find many restaurants with terraces and various shops.

    Among those important landmarks that are located in the Great Square, I can mention the Brukenthal National Museum which was the first museum in the region of Transylvania, the Council Tower, and almost in the middle of the square, you will find the Falkenhayn fountain.

    The Large Square in Sibiu where you can find the Brukenthal National Museum.
    The city hall, the Brukenthal Museum and the Roman Catholic Church in the Large Square.
    Terraces in the Large Square of Sibiu.
    Well maintained old Transylvanian buildings in the square.
    The well with the Council Tower in the backfround.
    A well in the center of the Large Square.
    The Falkenhayn well.
    The Falkenhayn well.

    The Small Square (Piața Mică)

    After exploring the Greater Square it was time to head towards the Little Square which is a very short distance away. The Small Square is encircled by colorful baroque-style buildings adorned with arched windows and intricate facades, the square offers a glimpse into Sibiu’s rich past. Cobblestone streets add to the medieval ambiance, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll through time.

    View of the Small Square.
    Colorful baroque-style buildings

    My first stop in the Small Square was at the Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary which was recently restored. The Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a significant landmark with deep historical roots. Often referred to as the “Cathedral of Sibiu,” it stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural and religious heritage. Construction of the cathedral began in the 14th century, and the building has undergone various modifications and renovations over the centuries.

    The Lutheran Cathedral
    The impressive Lutheran Cathedral in Small Square.

    Behind the Lutheran Cathedral, you will find the Guilds Tree and the famous Liars bridge. The Guilds Tree, a symbolic representation of the diverse craft associations that flourished in Sibiu during the 14th century.

    The Guilds Tree,
    The Guilds Tree.
    Close-up photo of the Guilds Tree.
    The Guilds Tree located behind the Lutheran Cathedral.

    The Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului) is another iconic landmark in Sibiu. Standing at the heart of the city, this medieval tower offers panoramic views of the historic center and the surrounding landscapes. The Council Tower is a reminder of Sibiu’s role as an important medieval trading city.

    The Council Tower and many terraces in the Small Square.
    Multiple restaurants and terraces.
    The Council Tower in Sibiu
    The Council Tower.

    The Bridge of Lies, is a fabled pedestrian bridge situated in the heart of Sibiu. As an interesting fact, it was the first iron-cast bridge built in Romania.

    View from the Bridge of Lies.
    The Small Square in Sibiu as seen from the Bridge of Lies.
    Small shops and the Lutheran Cathedral's tower in the background.
    Old buildings in the Small Square.
    Narrow street with multiple stairs near the Small suare.
    A street in the city center.

    Is there something else to visit in Sibiu?

    Certainly! Beside the historic center of the city, you can also visit the steam locomotive museum which is located close to Sibiu train station. Over there you will have the chance the discover what type of steam locomotive were used by the Romanian state railway company (C.F.R).

    Steam locomotives in the museum.
    Old steam locomotives in the museum.

    What to visit near Sibiu

    To be honest, there are many places to visit near Sibiu. Below I’ve shared a couple of them:

    • The Fortified Church in Cisnădioara – this fortified church is located on the top of a larger hill. You will have to pay for a ticket in order to visit it. This is the closest objective to Sibiu.
    • Sighișoara medieval citadel – this medieval citadel is among the most popular ones in the historic region of Transylvania.
    • Cârța Monastery – this is another place to visit especially if you are in the Făgăraș region.
    • The Biertan Fortified Church – this old church is actually not very far from the medieval citadel of Sighișoara. In case you are in the area, you will have to visit this place as well.
    • The Clay Castle – This another amazing place to visit in the Făgăraș region.