Oil springs in Beciu

✨ Short Description

The oil springs in the village of Beciu, Scorțoasa commune, are an extremely rare natural geological phenomenon, where oil comes to the surface from layers of rock more than 10 million years old. Initially considered an environmental accident, the phenomenon has been confirmed by specialists as natural and is now part of the UNESCO Geopark “Ținutul Buzăului”. The site has been developed and introduced into the tourist circuit, being unique in Romania and spectacular for the colors reflected in the sunlight.

 

📜 History of the location

The Beciu area has a long tradition of crude oil extraction, dating back to the Middle Ages, when locals used to collect oil by hand from naturally formed pits. The oil was used for lighting, anointing axles, treating burns and wounds to animals. Recently, following a report of a possible environmental accident, OMV Petrom and Environmental Guard specialists confirmed the natural nature of the outcrop. With the support of the association “Ținutul Buzăului” and the local authorities, the area has been partially developed for tourists, preserving its natural specificity.

⭐ Importance and uniqueness of the location

The Beciu oil outcrop is living proof of the geological richness of the Curvilinear Subcarpathians and one of the few places in Europe where oil spontaneously reaches the surface. The phenomenon occurs over an area of about 100 square meters and is caused by natural gases that propel the oil from deep underground. The site has become part of a geological tourist circuit, helping to promote responsible tourism and environmental education in the region.

🐉 Local myths and stories

Although no spectacular legends directly associated with the springs are mentioned, locals tell of the historical use of the oil “that came out of the ground by itself” for various household needs. Ironically, there is no drinking water network in the village, and instead of water, those who dig wells…. they find oil.

🗺️ What to visit

• Oil springs – natural outcrop with oil surfacing in the rough, reflecting stunning colors in the sunlight.
• Stone footpath and wooden bridge – features that facilitate access and provide a pleasant setting to visit.
• Explanatory panels – about the geology of the area and the history of oil exploitation in Beciu.
• The mud volcanoes of Beciu, Big and Small Pores – included in the same tour.
• The Beciu boils – other spectacular geological phenomena nearby.

📍 How to get there

• Location: Beciu village, Scorțoasa commune, Buzău county.
• Access: Follow the route Buzău – DN10 – DJ203K up to Scorțoasa commune, then follow the sign to Beciu village.
• Accessibility: The road is passable by car, but the last few hundred meters may require attention. The access to the springs is facilitated by the footpath.

🔎Things to keep in mind

• Flammability: It is strictly forbidden to light fire in the area due to the presence of natural gas and crude oil.
• Best time to visit: In the afternoon, when the sun’s rays bring out the shades of the oil – red, blue, green.
• Precautions: It is not recommended to touch the oil directly or to leave the marked route.
• Guidance: The visit can be enriched by calling the guides of the “Ținutul Buzăului” Geopark.

⏳Visiting hours and Fees

• Program: Visiting is possible all year round during the day.
• Fees: Admission is free. There is no fixed program, but it is recommended to visit as part of a guided tour organized by the Geopark.

🏛 Nearby sights

Mud Volcanoes – Pâclele Mici
Mud Volcanoes – Pâclele Mari
Mud Volcanoes – Beciu