The Evangelical fortified church and Criț’s school history give the village a distinctive cultural and historical character; a cycling route along the Scroafei stream adds a specific connection to the area’s routes. Different lead times and types of accommodation are also relevant when planning your stay.
Fortified Church and School History
Criț’s Evangelical fortified church was built between 1810 and 1813, after the earlier church, first mentioned in 1270, collapsed. The circular wall and four towers remain from the 15th-century fortifications. The dates help distinguish the former church, the later church building and the fortifications as separate historical points of reference.
The ruins of the former Saxon school lie on the south side of the complex, at the edge of the former zwinger (outer courtyard). More than 400 years ago, the first rural school law in Transylvania was passed in Criț. The ruins locate the school’s history within the church complex; the passing of the law establishes a broader connection to Transylvania’s educational history. Groups visiting the Evangelical fortified church should register in advance with Dietmar Depner. Confirm visiting hours locally before planning a group visit.
Routes and Activities
A special cycling route leads from Bunești to Criț along the Scroafei stream. The route goes downhill; after crossing the streambed, you reach the village and see the Evangelical fortified church on a hill. As route conditions can vary with the seasons, check the current situation before setting off. Criț is also a stage destination on the Terra Saxonum section of the Via Transilvanica.
Food and Accommodation
La Rozi în Criț serves food made with local ingredients and was recognised as a “Local Gastronomic Point” in 2019. A reservation at least 24 hours in advance is required; confirm current availability before travelling. This notice period makes a meal there something to plan in advance rather than a spontaneous stop.
At Casa Kraus, visitors can make felt slippers themselves in a three-hour workshop. Activities must be requested in advance. For accommodation, Casa Kraus recommends booking by phone 48 hours ahead; confirm this recommendation before your trip. The lead times differ: La Rozi requires a reservation at least 24 hours in advance; Casa Kraus recommends booking accommodation by phone 48 hours ahead. Activities there must be requested separately in advance. The three-hour felt-slipper workshop takes up a separate block of time, in addition to planning your overnight stay.
Pensiunea Rozalia and Camping in Criț can accommodate 11 people, in triple rooms or wooden cabins. For a group, the stated capacity and the choice between rooms and wooden cabins are two specific points to compare with your needs.
For the broader travel overview: Bunesti.
