Dealu Istrita Visitor Center
✨ Short Description
The Dealu Istrița Visitor Center, located in Gura Sărății, Merei commune, is a newly inaugurated attraction in Buzău County, dedicated to educating visitors about the impact of the Paratethys mega-lake, which shaped the region’s landscape. The center showcases natural resources such as salt, oil, and stone, offering interactive exhibits featuring 12-million-year-old fossils, reconstructed prehistoric animals, Monteoru culture artifacts, and oil industry relics. It is a community project funded by Merei Town Hall, supported by various organizations.
📜 History of the Location
The Dealu Istrița Visitor Center was created to highlight the significance of the Paratethys mega-lake, which shaped the geography of the region 6,000 years ago. Located in a former country school, the project was funded by Merei City Council and developed with help from the “Country Girls” action group and Dynasty Studio.
⭐ Importance and Uniqueness of the Location
This center is unique in Buzău County, focusing on geology, natural resources, and history. It provides insights into the impact of the Paratethys mega-lake and highlights the region’s historical exploitation of salt, oil, and stone, which have shaped its development over millennia.
🐉 Local Myths and Stories
The Paratethys Mega-Lake – A geological colossus, once the largest known lake in history, which transformed the landscape and influenced local flora and fauna.
🗺️ What to Visit
Interactive exhibitions – Explore the geological history of the area and natural resource use.
Fossil collection – View 12-million-year-old fossils and reconstructed prehistoric animals.
Monteoru culture artifacts – Miniatures of the Cloșca treasure and ancient pottery.
Oil mine simulation – A hands-on experience for young explorers.
📍 How to Get There
Location: Gura Sărății, Merei commune, Buzău County
Access: Easily reachable from Buzău via DJ203, passing through Merei.
🔎 Things to Keep in Mind
Interactive Experience – The center offers educational activities and games to make geology and history engaging.
Visiting Hours – Recommended to call ahead or check with Merei Town Hall for availability.
⏳ Visiting Program and Fees
Program: Further details available on-site or via official project pages.
Fees: Information may be provided at the center.