Tourism in Maramureș – the “Land of Wood”
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Symbolically called the “Land of Wood”, Maramureș is a distinct area of our country. In the north of the country, right on the border with neighbouring Ukraine, this territory is known nationally for its authentic architecture, its traditionally inspired houses and the proud gates at the entrance to the farmsteads.
Now is the right time to visit Maramureș, because autumn turns the landscapes into real works of art. Here you will feel as if in a true open-air museum, given the beauty of the natural setting.
Stay with us to discover the most interesting sights of the area!
1. The wooden churches
As you already know, Maramureș is the homeland of wood, which means this resource was also used in building its religious monuments. The wooden churches are visited by tourists from all over the world. They are fascinated by the unusual design and the beauty of nature.
Did you know that in Maramureș there are about 100 religious buildings made of wood? What is more, 8 of them are already on the UNESCO heritage list.
The imposing roofs are also remarkable and cannot go unnoticed by visitors. The craftsmen’s mastery is visible, especially if you look at the high towers of the churches.
2. The Merry Cemetery in Săpânța
Who has not heard of the famous Merry Cemetery in Săpânța? Compared with the vast majority of existing cemeteries, it stands out for its distinct way of approaching death. In practice, the people of Săpânța look at death as a celebration, not as a tragedy.
The whole concept began in the 1930s, when a villager, Stan Ion Pătraș, carved his own cross, using oak wood. Today all the crosses in the cemetery are painted in a beautiful shade of blue, and are also decorated with traditional motifs typical of the area.
Read also: The Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, one of the most important attractions in Maramureș
3. Baia Mare
You cannot leave Maramureș without visiting the town of Baia Mare. In the past the town was part of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today there are still medieval buildings worth admiring, such as Stephen’s Tower or the Butchers’ Tower.
4. Pietrosul Rodnei Peak
A unique sight on our list, and also the highest peak in the Eastern Carpathians. If you love mountain scenery and spending time outdoors, this is the perfect choice.
5. The Sighet Village Museum
Open to the public since 1981, the Village Museum in Sighet is an open-air section of the Maramureș Ethnographic Museum. Based on the classic structure of a traditional village, the museum is a real ethnographic masterpiece. The church is in the central part of the village and highlights the architectural styles of times gone by.
So Maramureș is among the most beautiful areas of our country. Make a stop in these unique lands and enjoy tourist attractions found in no other location in Romania.
