Marginea is a district in the North of Romania, located in Suceava County. It has a population of roughly 6,500 people and covers an area of 53 square kilometers. Marginea is known for its traditional pottery production made by local artisans, its salt mines, and its old spruce forest. The district is bordered to the north by the counties of Botosani and Iasi, to the east by the districts of Falticeni and Radauti, to the south by the district of Suceava, and to the west by the district of Siret. Marginea is home to numerous historical monuments, such as the “Gura Prisacului” castle, the wooden church in the village of Pastorul Radului, the step wells in Marginea and Ciubar village, the brick churches in Marginea and Poclovina, and the churches of Popauti and Gura Obcinei. There is also a Centre for Traditional Folk Arts in Marginea which is devoted to preserving and promoting the culture and traditions of the region. The local economy is mainly driven by agricultural activities and some traditional crafts production.
Marginea is situated is located in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains, Suceava County, northeastern Romania. It borders Radauti Municipality to the west, Gura Humorului Municipality to the north, Vicovu de Sus and Vatra Dornei Municipalities to the southeast and northeast respectively. The district has many tourist attractions including the Marginea Black Pottery Center, where traditional black pottery, known as “Negruziori” is produced, as well as two traditional religious sites: the Marginea Monastery and the wooden church St. Nicholas from Marginea. It also contains numerous natural attractions such as the Fortuna Cave, the Dochia Monolith and the Bicaz Gorges National Park.
To get to Suceava Marginea district, you can catch a train, fly, drive, or take a bus. If you choose to take the train, you can take the InterRegio or EuroCity train from Bucharest to Suceava. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Suceava Marginea district. If you fly, there are flights from Bucharest to Suceava Airport which is located 27 km from Suceava Marginea district. Alternatively, you can drive or take a coach to get to Suceava Marginea district.
1. Cacica Monastery: Located just outside the town of Marginea in Suceava County, Romania, the Cacica Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Romania, dating back to the early 13th century. This monastery has gone through periods of religious persecution, destruction and restoration. The church’s interior is decorated with Baroque icons and frescos depicting the life of Jesus. Visitors are also drawn to its large bell-tower which towers over the monastery grounds.
2. Sucevita Monastery: The Monastery of Sucevita is a historical sight in the Suceava region of Romania. It was founded in 1583 by Petru Rareș, and is the largest monument built by the Moldavian voivod. Decorated with incredibly detailed frescoes and exterior walls of pink limestone, this location is well worth the visit. Inside, you can view the Museum of Relics, built to commemorate the long-running history of the monastery.
3. Putna Monastery: Situated in the northern part of Romania, the Putna Monastery is a must-see for anyone visiting the Suceava district. This monastery was built by Stephen cel Mare, the 15th century prince of the Moldavian voivodate. It’s considered the holiest place of worship in Romania and St. Stephen’s tomb is located here. The stunning architecture of the monastery and its tree-lined grounds will easily enchant visitors.
4. Rădăuţi Citadel: Located in the heart of the Suceava region, the Rădăuţi Citadel is one of the largest fortifications in Romania. This citadel was built in 1531 by the Moldavian prince Petru Rareş. Today it is home to the Rădăuţi Art Gallery, showing off renowned art pieces from the Romanian Renaissance. You can also take a stroll through the citadel’s grounds, which have been turned into a park.
1. The Village Museum of Marginea – This museum is filled with historical artifacts and traditional sculptures from the region. Visitors can explore traditional objects from folk culture, including pottery, plates, and decorative accessories, as well as clothing and tools used by local people throughout history. There is also a archives room that documents the history of the region.
2. Sucevita Monastery – Built in the 16th century, Sucevita Monastery is an important cultural and architectural monument, as well as one of Suceava Marginea’s most popular tourist attractions. The monastery complex includes a church and a tower, both made of brick, as well as a fortified wall, gate tower, and several living quarters. Visitors can also explore the monastery’s ornate interior, including frescoes and an impressive library.
3. Putna Monastery – Located a short distance away from Sucevista Monastery, Putna Monastery is a 14th century religious complex that features a church and a walled defense structure. It is also home to several important historical artifacts, including a hand-written copy of the Bible and a painting of the Transfiguration of Jesus.
4. Humor Monastery – This late 16th century Orthodox monastery is located in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains and is home to impressive frescoes and stunning interior design. The monastery also has a number of other historical artifacts, including a rare copy of the Bible.
5. Voronet Monastery – The Voronet Monastery, also known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of the East’, is a striking 15th century religious complex. Its exterior walls are filled with vivid frescoes that depict events from the Bible and the lives of local saints.
6. Dragomirna Monastery – This 16th century monastery is located in the north-east of Romania, close to the Ukrainian border. The monastery is home to a 12th century Gospel of Mark and a 14th century Gospel of Matthew. It is also surrounded by ancient oaks and filled with stunning frescoes and wall decorations.
7. Agapia Monastery – This 18th century Russian-style monastery is located in the picturesque village of Agapia and is home to a serene atmosphere and quaint architecture. Visitors can explore the cloisters and chapels, as well as the old cells of ancient monks.:
1. Visit the Historical Museum and the Folk Art Museum in Marginea.
2. Hike through the Carpathian Mountains.
3. Explore the ancient Monasteries and Churches in the area, dating back to the 14th century.
4. Tour the UNESCO-protected Wooden Churches in Maramures.
5. Horse trekking and mountain biking.
6. Enjoy traditional Romanian foods like ‘ţuică’, ‘smântână’, ‘sarmale’ and ‘mici’ in one of the local pubs.
7. Take a day trip to the town of Sucevita and the Monastery of Sucevita, a 16th century fortress built in the Ottoman style.
8. Go fishing in the Prut River.
9. Attend the annual “Mărţişor” Festival in March, celebrating Romania’s spring traditions.
10. Visit the Synevu lifestyle museum near Borşa and take a wagon ride along the same route taken by shepherds in the area.