In Ciurila, a complex of lakes in the Hășdate Valley, a small floodplain nature reserve and a wooden church dating from 1755 represent different aspects of the area. They are joined by the commune’s rural cultural heritage and an animal park in the village of Sălicea. This makes it possible to shape a stay around water landscapes, protected plant life and culture, without conflating the different places and scales.
Lake Complex and Floodplain Landscape
The Ciurila lake complex lies in the Hășdate Valley and consists of three cascading lakes: Filea (Ciurila I), Șutu (Ciurila II) and Pădureni (Ciurila III). The complex includes a fish farm covering 42 hectares, extending over 2.5 kilometres and holding a water volume of 1.413 million cubic metres. The area, length and volume show different dimensions of the complex, while the three lakes divide it into named parts. Those choosing Ciurila for its waters can therefore find both a natural and a practical perspective on the same local theme.
The Pârâul Dumbrava nature reserve is a distinct natural attraction. It covers 0.5 hectares and is a natural meadow in the floodplain of the Dumbrava Filei stream. The legally protected orchid Papucul Doamnei (Cypripedium calceolus) grows there. The comparison of sizes makes the different scales clear: the fish farm covers 42 hectares, while the reserve covers half a hectare. One theme is understood through the extent and use of the water, the other through a limited floodplain meadow and a protected plant species. If you are choosing between a landscape focus and a nature focus when planning your trip, this contrast offers a concrete point of reference.
Route Connection and Rural Heritage
Route 28MN12 runs along the edge of Ciurila and follows the Pârâul Dumbrava for 50 metres upstream. The connection to the stream covers a 50-metre section within the route.
There is a wooden church in Ciurila dating from 1755. Its dedication is “Intrarea în biserică a Maicii Domnului”. Its construction and dedication provide two specific points of reference for understanding the building; its date places it in the 18th century.
The rural cultural heritage of Ciurila commune includes old houses built in the traditional Transylvanian style, as well as plain, carved or painted wooden furniture. One striking detail is the wooden Culmea, found in old houses above the bed or around the stove. Originally, it was used to dry or hang clothes; today it serves a decorative purpose and has been preserved in some places. This object makes it possible to compare its former use with its present-day decorative function.
More Activities and Getting There
In the village of Sălicea, visitors can pet, photograph and feed animals at the Moara de Vânt ZooParc. These activities offer a different focus from exploring the lake landscape or built heritage.
Metro line M16 runs between Str. Posada and Ciurila. Check the timetable for departure times before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Jucu de Mijloc, Muntele Băişorii, Sic, Moldovenești, Tureni, Smida, Maia, Bica
For the main travel overview: Cluj-Napoca.
