The Salaj Criseni district is a rural district in western Romania near the Hungary-Romania border. It is part of Salaj County in the Transylvania region of the country. The district has a long and vibrant history that goes back to the Middle Ages. It was first mentioned in documents from the 12th century and has a rich cultural heritage that includes old churches, rural houses, and ancient fortresses. The area is also known for its traditional winemaking and pottery. The district is primarily made up of rolling hills and low mountains, making it ideal for agricultural activities. In addition, several rivers run through the district, which attracts visitors throughout the year. Tourism has grown steadily in the recent years due to its natural beauty and rich cultural and historical legacy.
Criseni is located is a district located in the Salaj county of northwestern Romania. It is bordered by the districts of Maramures to the north, Bihor to the east, Hajdú-Bihar to the south, and Satu Mare to the west. The capital of the district is the town of Criseni, which is situated in the eastern part of the district. The district is composed mainly of small villages, with the majority of its population living in the rural areas. The main economic activities of the district are agriculture, small-scale industries, and tourism. The majority of the local population is Romanian, but there are also substantial Hungarian and German communities.
The best way to get to Salaj Criseni district is to take a train, bus, or car. You can also fly to the nearest airport and rent a car to get to the district from there.
1. Castle of Salaj Criseni: Located on a hill near the small town of Salaj Criseni, this castle dates back to medieval times and is said to have been built by the local princes in the late 16th century.
2. Church of Saint Ico: This famous church is one of the oldest churches in Romania, built in the 16th century and still standing today. It is still used as a place of worship and contains some stunning stained glass windows and beautiful frescoes.
3. Old Town of Pazia: This old town, located in the commune of Caransebes, was once a center of trade and social life in the region and is home to several historical buildings, such as the Old Town Hall.
4. Romulus Vinca monument: A monument located in the commune of Salaj Criseni, it pays homage to the hero of Romania’s freedom, Romulus Vinca. The monument depicts Vinca holding a cross and symbolizes the fight for freedom and justice.
5. Castru Monastery: This monastery located in the commune of Salaj Criseni dates back to the 18th century and is home to some of the best preserved paintings from the region. It is open to the public and features an outdoor terrace and a museum.
1. Salaj Criseni Manor – This unique 18th century manor house was once owned by the wealthy Magyar family and features beautifully preserved and restored buildings, courtyard and gardens. It is a great place to explore the rich heritage of the region and is open seasonally for tours and guided tours.
2. Criseni Village Museum – Situated in the heart of the village, this museum showcases the history and culture of the region with exhibits that include artifacts, photographs and clothing from ancient times. The museum is open during the summer months and entrance fees apply.
3. Ciurila Castle – Located in the picturesque village of Ciurila, the castle is a 14th century edifice perched atop a hilltop overlooking the Salaj Criseni landscape. Use of the remains of the castle and its gardens is free and open to the public.
4. Criseni Fortified Church – Located near the village of Criseni, this is a 15th century church that was used as a fortress against attacks by the Ottoman and Turkish armies. Touring the remains of the church is free and open to the public.
5. Salaj Dunare-Criseni Nature Park – This nature park is one of the most diverse areas in the region, boasting forests, meadows, rivers, creeks and lakes, as well as rare species of plants and animals. Access to the park is free and open to the public and can be reached by hiking trails.
The Salaj Criseni district is located in the northwestern region of Romania and serves as the second-highest county in the country. The area is home to many scenic attractions and there are a variety of activities available for visitors.
One popular activity is hiking. The region contains two national parks, the Apuseni Mountains National Park and the Domogled-Valea Cernei National Park, that offer ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. There are also numerous trails and pathways to follow, so there is something suitable for everyone. Additionally, visitors can enjoy kayaking and canoeing in the region’s two main rivers –Tisa and Crisul Negru– or fishing in the surrounding lakes.
Another popular activity in the region is exploring the historical sites. The area is rich in culture and heritage, with various historical sites and monuments, such as the Medieval Sighişoara fortification, the fortified church in the Saumeiu area, and the Zalau Citadel. The region also contains many remarkable churches, such as the 18th-century Church of Maramures, and traditional folk architecture, like the Zlonics’ castle.
The cultural landscape in the Salaj Criseni region is also complemented by local gastronomy. Visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian food, such as stews, roast meat dishes, homemade breads, and the famous Negresti Salami, as well as sweets like tulumba, or ice cream. There are also several vineyards that offer tours and tastings.
Finally, visitors can also take part in art and music events. There are a variety of festivals and events held throughout the year, such as the International Folk Festival, the International Jazz Festival, and the Robert Schumann International Music Competition. Additionally, the area has numerous art galleries, museums, and workshops that showcase local artwork.