Rimetea

One hour drive from Cluj you can visit Rimetea, a village located in a scenic valley between two rugged mountain ridges and boasting a rich history and some very well preserved architecture for which Rimetea won the Europa Nostra prize awarded by the European Commission in 1999.

Quick history

The area has been inhabited for at least 2000 years. In medieval times Rimetea (then Toroczcko) was known for its iron ore deposits which contributed significantly to the village gaining "town" rank in 1666. Iron wasn't just extracted here, but also manufactured into agricultural tools sold across the country and abroad.

Rimetea is probably best known for its well preserved centuries old houses. The village's population has been encouraged to restore old buildings rather than build new ones. Some NGOs have been providing counseling and funding for such projects since 1996.

Things you can do in Rimetea

• Walk the village's narrow streets, visit the museum, the Unitarian church, the old water mill or the cemetery
• Hike one of the numerous trails starting here
• Visit the ruins of the medieval fortress (Cetatea Trascaului) in the vicinity of the neighboring Coltesti village (3 km west of Rimetea) - location in Google Maps
• Also in Coltesti visit Conacul Secuiesc - a traditional mansion where you can relax, eat or buy a piece of delicious local cheese.