"Moonshine and a Merry Cemetery" Judetul Maramures by sieffron

Judetul Maramures Travel Guide: 51 reviews and 114 photos

The Maramures region is the epitome of pastoral. Unfortunately, I had only a night and a day to spend there, but I feel lucky to have been there at all. It's an out of the way destination in Romania, but anyone who's got the time to get there will be rewarded with bucolic vistas of lush green mountains dotted with fir trees and tall conical haystacks, along with the requisite traditionally clad farmers, pitchforks in hand and oxen by their side. The people are warm, friendly, and helpful, seemingly even more so when a language barrier exists. I visited the city of Sighetu Marmatiei and the village of Sapanta. I somehow wound up devoid of photos of Sighetu, but there are a few of Sapanta and its famous "Merry Cemetery". This was one of the highlights of my summer 2004 trip - my only regret was that I didn't have time to rent a car and explore some of the more traditional villages of the region.

Pros and Cons

Pros:friendly people, unique dress and architecture, food
Cons:a bit out of the way if you don't have more than a week in Romania

Last visit to Judetul Maramures: Jul 2004
Intro Written Sep 20, 2004
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Reviews (13)

Map says Sapanta, but I'm thinking Haight-Ashbury - Judetul Maramures

Check Out the Colorful Homes and... Things to Do (6)

If you go to Maramures, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair. more travel advice

traditional dress in a unique setting - Judetul Maramures

Traditional Dress Local Customs (1)

This illustrates the traditional mode of dress in Sapanta, and judging from the age of the girl, this is something that... more travel advice

Pretty good place to be immortalized, right? - Judetul Maramures

Merry Cemetery Things to Do (6)

The collection of grave markers gives visitors to the cemetery a good idea of everyday life in Sapanta. Sheperds,... more travel advice

Merry Cemetery Things to Do (6)

Here is another interesting, albeit sad monument to a deceased member of the Sapanta community. The "headstones" are... more travel advice

Comments (5)

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yumyum Jun 15, 2008 at 9:41 AM

In Suceava we were told of visiting Maramures but unfortunately didn't have time. So thanks for giving me a peek.
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Greggules Dec 7, 2006 at 5:45 PM

I think that you were being over cautious - better to be safe than sorry ! :-) I have been questioned by border police on the train but really they just wanted to chat and be friendly !
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Neit Mar 8, 2006 at 10:11 AM

As you say, Maramures is not a typical touristic region of Romania (although I think it will be in some years), but I think it is the better destination I have stayed (nowadays). The place really surprised me!
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barbskie Apr 22, 2005 at 1:47 PM

The first time i've ever seen a Merry Cemetery. Really colorful and great carvings & designs.Thanks to your site. regards
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melissa_bel Sep 20, 2004 at 6:48 PM

Hey Steve! Your page just took me back years when I visited Transylvania. Yes, the Maramures is a fantastic region and I have some memories of the palinca! And you remind me I have to finish my page about my trip!