Archaeological Sites

Known as the “Romanian Athos,” the cave churches and rock settlements of the Buzău Mountains, dating back to early Christianity, served as monastic retreats and places of worship; today, they offer a unique hiking and exploration experience in a landscape rich with history, legends, and spirituality.

Discovered in 1837 on Istrița Hill, the Pietroasele Treasure—also known as “The hatching hen with the golden chicken”—is a 4th-century Visigothic hoard of nearly 20 kg of gold, now displayed at the National History Museum in Bucharest and the Buzău County Museum, offering valuable insights into ancient Germanic and oriental cultures.

Carved into Piatra Șoimului on Istrița Hill, Ambrozie’s Hermit is a historical and spiritual retreat, where monk Ambrozie Rizea lived in isolation for over 50 years; now a pilgrimage site, it stands as a symbol of humility, devotion, and monastic life in the Buzău region.

Dating back to 800-600 BC, the Thracian necropolis of Năeni is an important archaeological site featuring burial and cremation tombs, ritual artifacts, and the statue of the goddess Anaithis; a key remnant of the Bronze Age Monteoru culture, it offers valuable insight into the region’s ancient history.

Built in 332 AD by Emperor Constantine the Great, the Roman Castrum of Pietroasele served as a military fortification housing the 11th Claudia Legion, featuring defensive walls, Roman baths with a hypocaust system, and necropolises; today, it remains an archaeological site of great historical significance.

The Monteoru Culture Archaeological Center in Sărata Monteoru, dating back to 3000-1600 BC, is a key site for studying Bronze Age civilizations in Romania, featuring settlements, necropolises, and religious artifacts, offering valuable insights into the early Thracian communities and their cultural evolution.

Built during the reign of King Decebal (1st century BC), the Dacian Fortress of Tarcov was a strategic military stronghold at 735 meters altitude, guarding access to Transylvania; today, its defensive walls, artifacts, and commanding views provide valuable insights into Dacia’s defense system.

A historic mountain pass at 1340 meters altitude, Tabla Buții was a strategic trade and military route between Wallachia and Transylvania, playing a key role in medieval wars and World War I battles; today, it is home to a Heroes’ Cemetery, fortress ruins, and a war memorial, symbolizing sacrifice and remembrance.