Mehedinti Patulele is a district in the Mehedinti County of western Romania. It borders the districts of Calarasi, Gorj, Caras-Severin, and Arges. Patulele has a population of over 8,000 people, and a total area of about 206 square miles. The district contains several villages, among them Balesti, Gogosu, Hulubesti, and Magura. The main rivers flowing through Patulele are Olt and Jiu. The region is home to many natural attractions, including the Mehedinti Natural Park and the Iron Gates National Park. Patulele also has a rich cultural heritage, including the Anistic Monastery, which is well known for its frescoes and icons.
Mehedinti Patulele is a district in the South West region of Romania. It is bordered by the counties of Dolj, Gorj, Valcea, and Caras-Severin. The district has a population of 17,270 people (at the end of 2011) and it covers an area of 851.34 km2. The administrative center of the district is the town of Patulele.
The best way to get to Mehedinti Patulele District is to take a bus or train from an nearby large city. You can also rent a car and drive there yourself. If you’re coming from Bucharest, you can take the train from there to nearby Craiova Station, then take a bus or taxi to the Mehedinti Patulele district.
1. Cetatea Severinului: Located on the heights of the city of Drobeta Turnu Severin, this fortress was built during the 14th century by the Wallachian prince Mircea the Elder. It is one of the most important historical sites in the Mehedinti region and features three towers, two drawbridges and a chapel that was built in 1589.
2. The Old Town of Orsova: This charming old town, situated on the banks of the Danube River, is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the entire region. Its narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses and unique historical monuments are sure to captivate anyone who visits the town.
3. The Fortress of Gemenii: This fortress is located on the banks of the Danube River near Orsova. It dates back to the 16th century and was presided over by two dragons who were defeated and killed by the Virgin Mary. It is one of the most important strategic military points in southern Romania and is also home to some beautiful 16th century frescoes.
4. The Cultural Monument of Baia de Fier: This historical monument is located in the village of Baia de Fier, close to the town of Baia de Aries. It is a complex of churches, monasteries and the remains of a medieval citadel that date from the 13th and 14th centuries. It is a beautiful example of medieval architecture and is a great place to explore and learn about the past.
5. The Danube Delta National Park: Located close to Patulele, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest natural reserve in the entire country. It is home to some of the most diverse and beautiful flora and fauna in Romania, as well as rare species such as the Dalmatian pelican and the black seagull. It is also home to a rich variety of migratory birds and is a wonderful place for bird-watching and exploring the great outdoors.
1. Giurgiu Cave – Located in the lower part of the Vaua Valley, the Giurgiu Cave is one of the most visited attractions in the Mehedinti Patulele district. This gorgeous pink-hued limestone cave is known for its remarkable formations of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as its diverse fauna.
2. Danube Delta Natural Park – One of the largest and most important protected areas in Romania, the Danube Delta Natural Park is home to rare species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and plant life as well as dozens of lakes, canals and streams. Visitors can explore the area on boat tours, or take a guided walk through the National Park’s beautiful trails.
3. Ruieni Church – The Ruieni Church is a beautiful 17th century Romanian Orthodox church located in the village of Ruieni in the Mehedinti Patulele district. This stone-built monument offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is surrounded by lush green meadows and forest. Inside the church you can find intricately painted icons and wood carvings.
4. Traian Vuia House – Located in Darova, this is the childhood home of Traian Vuia, a pioneering Romanian aircraft designer and inventor. The house was recently restored and now serves as a museum dedicated to his work and achievements. The Traian Vuia House is a wonderful place to discover Romanian aviation history and the life of this remarkable individual.
5. Drobeta-Turnu Severin Fortress – This imposing hill-top fortress dates back to the 15th century and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Mehedinti Patulele district. The fortress’s walls and towers offer panoramic views of the town and the Danube River, while inside the walls you can explore some fascinating exhibits about the history of the fortress and the surrounding region.
Mehedinti Patulele district is a great destination for tourists in Romania, as it offers a wide range of activities, from biking and hiking to wildlife spotting and cultural restoration trips.
For nature lovers, the district offers beautiful hiking trails that lead to stunning mountain views, dense forests and picturesque villages. Mountain biking enthusiasts can also explore the area’s winding roads, taking in the views of the Carpathian Mountains and the Botorog River. Birdwatchers can easily spot some of the area’s rare species, such as the Western Marsh Harrier and the Red Kite.
History and archaeology buffs should visit the Lipova Castle, built in the XVIII century, and the Adâncata Monastery, built in the IX century. During their stay, visitors can also explore ruins from the Roman settlement of Malva.
For a unique experience, landmarks such as the Chileni Fortified Church and the ancient city walls in Isla can be visited, along with various archaeological sites such as the Arkovna mound and the Dormancea ruins.
Mehedinti Patulele district is also close to various rivers, offering visitors a chance to go fishing and kayaking, as well as swimming in natural hot springs. Archaeology lovers should also visit the nearby Orosia Roman city ruins and the steam train station in Mervilor. There is also a thriving local art scene, with galleries and art exhibitions featuring works from around the region.