The Vetel district of Hunedoara County is one of Romania’s 42 historical districts and is situated in the north-west of Transylvania, in the South Apuseni Mountains. The district is emphasized by its vast forests, lush grasslands, and numerous rivers, making it an ideal breathing spot.
Archeological discoveries have traced the presence of humans in the region back to the Iron Age, and later the medieval period, when the area was inhabited mainly by Transylvanian Saxons. The district has many Saxon heritage sites, such as the Saxon fortified churches in Badon, Lepindea, and Părău. Additionally, the Vetel district is a popular destination for historic tourism, as there are numerous Austro-Hungarian fortifications and military remains from World War II.
Located in the center of the district is the city of Vetel, which is home to many important public buildings, such as the town hall, a library, and several churches. The other communities within the district include Popești, Aciuța, Groși, Veree, Grădiștea de Mureș, and Teaca. The population of the district is divided mainly between the Romanian and Hungarian ethnicities.
The beautiful scenery of the district is ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping. Local attractions include many attractions such as an open-air museum of the Iron Age and the Museum of Traditional Folk Culture. The region is also home to amazing historical sites, crystal clear rivers and many nature reserves, such as Munții Godeanu Natural Park.
The Vetel district is an incredibly diverse, full of culture and history, making it the perfect place to explore and appreciate the Romanian countryside.
Vetel is located is a district in the west of Romania, in Hunedoara County. It covers an area of 499 km² and has a population of 10,590 people. The capital city is Vetel. Some of the other towns and villages in the district include: Iadara, Sasca, Parau, Boistea, Bălăbănești and Răstolți. The district is bordered by the districts of Deva, Hațeg, Arad and Orăștie. It is mainly an agricultural area and is known for its wines and mineral springs. This region is also home to some of Romania’s oldest castles, such as Corvinesti and Grosi.
The best way to reach Hunedoara Vetel district is by car. Depending on your starting location, the distance and drive time can vary. You can use an online route planner to help you plan your route and get an estimate of how long it will take.
1. Corvin Castle: This 15th-century Gothic-Renaissance castle is situated in Hunedoara city and is one of the most impressive castles in Transylvania. Built by the order of King Sigismund of Luxemburg, this majestic castle is perched atop a steep hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. The castle has a plethora of architectural styles and is surrounded by a defensive wall, moat and drawbridge. It houses a narrow cobblestone alley leading to a large tower, which can be climbed to get a breathtaking view of the entire region.
2. Iron Gate Caves: This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on the Iron Gate of the Danube gorge and is renowned for its impressive caves and stunning scenery. It features dark corridors, stunning rock formations and ancient fossils. This cave system, which was once the traditional pathway that was used by the Romans, was completely transformed by mining activities during the Middle Ages. The caves are now home to a variety of unique animals and plants, making it a fascinating destination to explore.
3. Stejărel Monastery: This 14th-century monastery is situated in Vetel and is home to a number of stunning frescoes and other fascinating works of art. The monastery is a perfect example of Gothic Architecture and is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for a quiet and relaxing stroll. Visitors can also enjoy the views from the top of the bell tower, which offers a panoramic view of the Danube valley and the Hunedoara Mountains.
4. Văioaga Monastery: This 16th-century monastery is one of the most important religious sites in the area, and it was founded by the queen of Hungary when she was on a journey with her husband – King Stephen III. The monastery is richly decorated with frescoes, fresco carvings, and statues, making it an architectural masterpiece. Visitors can also explore the nearby historic fortifications, which are also part of the monastery complex.
5. Vetel Fortress: Built in the 15th century, this fortress is an impressive example of medieval architecture and fortification. The fortress was once the main stronghold of the medieval city, and it still retains its impressive walls, towers and drawbridge. Visitors can explore the fortified walls, grand entrance, and inner turrets, as well as the dungeons and walkways. The fortress is situated in the heart of Vetel and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
1. Corvin Castle: Corvin Castle is a Gothic-Renaissance castle in Hunedoara, Romania. It is one of the largest and best preserved castles in Transylvania. It was built in the 15th century by Iancu de Hunedoara, a Hungarian military leader, and has since served as a prison and a royal residence. The castle is now a popular tourist attraction and is known for its unique architecture and stunning views.
2. Deva Citadel: The Deva Citadel is a fortress in the city of Deva, Hunedoara county. The citadel was built in the 13th century and is the largest fortress still standing in Transylvania. It sits atop a hill overlooking the city and is surrounded by thick stone walls. Inside the fortress, visitors can explore the chapel, four towers, fortress walls, and a museum dedicated to the citadel’s history.
3. Varadinum Church: Varadinum Church is a Gothic monument in the city of Deva, Hunedoara county. The church was built in the 13th century and is a popular tourist attraction due to its unique design. The church is characterized by its pointed arches, intricately carved stone walls, and a distinctive campanile rising above it. It is one of the oldest churches in Romania and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Retezat National Park: Retezat National Park is a nature reserve in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including wolves, lynxes, bears, wildcats, and chamois. It also features over 70 glaciers and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, mountain biking, or skiing.
5. Hunedoara City: Hunedoara is a city in Hunedoara county that dates back to medieval times. The city is home to several landmarks, including the 14th-century Corvin Castle and the ruins of the Hunyad Castle. There is also a museum, library, and a museum of paleontology. The city is a great spot to explore the culture and history of Romania.
Tourism activities in Hunedoara Vetel district include:
1. Exploring historical sites: Hunedoara Vetel district is home to many fascinating historical sites. Highlights include Hunedoara Castle, which dates back to the 13th century and is one of the most important medieval fortifications in Europe, Corvin Castle, Bran Castle of Dracula fame, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sarmizegetusa Regia.
2. Horseback riding: Take advantage of the stunning natural setting of the Hunedoara Vetel district by visiting one of the many riding centers and going horseback riding in the stunning countryside.
3. Swimming at Lacul Parang: Relax and unwind at this beautiful lake, located approximately 40km from Hunedoara. Here visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
4. Skiing: The Ski Resorts of Parangul Mare and Puntea Vinului provide excellent skiing in the winter months and a great way to explore the stunning landscape of the Romania-Serbia border.
5. Hiking and rock climbing: The countryside of Hunedoara Vetel district is the perfect place to explore, with routes ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. For those looking to push themselves, there are also a range of rock climbing opportunities.
6. Fishing: Lacul Izvorului is well known for its abundance of trout, making it the ideal destination for a fishing trip.