Curtea de Argeș – The City of Legends and History
Curtea de Argeș, a picturesque town located in Argeș County at the foot of the Făgăraș Mountains, is one of the oldest and most important cities in Romania. Known for its rich historical heritage, fascinating legends, and natural landscapes, Curtea de Argeș is an ideal destination for tourists passionate about history, culture, and nature.
1. Must-See Attractions
Curtea de Argeș Monastery
• One of Romania’s most famous monasteries, built by Neagoe Basarab in the 16th century.
• A legendary site tied to the story of Master Manole.
• Houses the tombs of Romanian kings and queens, including King Ferdinand, Queen Marie, and King Michael.
St. Nicholas Royal Church
• Built in the 13th century by Basarab I, it is one of Romania’s oldest medieval monuments.
• A unique example of Byzantine architecture, with well-preserved frescoes.
The Fountain of Master Manole
• Located near Curtea de Argeș Monastery.
• According to legend, after finishing the monastery, Master Manole jumped from the roof, and the place where he fell turned into a fountain.
Poenari Castle
• Vlad the Impaler’s fortress, located atop a mountain, approximately 25 km from the city.
• Access requires climbing 1,480 steps, but the spectacular view is worth the effort.
Mihai’s Fountain Park
• A beautifully arranged central park, ideal for relaxation and walks.
Vidraru Dam and Lake
• Located about 40 km from the city, it’s perfect for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
• Attractions include the Prometheus statue and a scenic viewing platform on the dam.
2. Activities and Experiences
• Guided Tours: Discover the city’s history and legends through organized tours of the main attractions.
• Hiking: Explore mountain trails in the Făgăraș Mountains, starting from the Vidraru Dam area.
• Boat Rides: Enjoy a relaxing experience on Vidraru Lake.
• Traditional Cuisine: Taste local dishes in the town’s restaurants, such as tripe soup, stuffed cabbage rolls, or grilled trout.
3. Accommodation Options in Curtea de Argeș
Curtea de Argeș offers a variety of accommodations for all budgets: Hotel Posada, Pensiunea La Maria și Ioana, Pensiunea Casa Domnească, Hotel Meșterul Manole, or Casa Diana.
4. Local Events
• Medieval Festival: An annual event that revives history through parades, medieval shows, and artisan fairs.
• Curtea de Argeș City Days: A cultural festival full of music, folk dances, and traditional exhibitions.
5. Transportation Tips
• By car: The city is about 150 km from Bucharest and is accessible via DN7.
• By train: Direct connections are available from Bucharest to Curtea de Argeș.
• By bus: Regular routes operate from Pitești and other nearby cities.
6. Useful Tips
• Dress comfortably if you plan to climb Poenari Castle or hike in the mountainous area.
• In summer, avoid peak hours when visiting major attractions.
• Don’t forget to bring water and snacks if you’re exploring mountain trails.
Curtea de Argeș awaits you with fairy-tale landscapes, fascinating history, and the warm hospitality of the region. It’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a peaceful vacation in the heart of Romania!