Godeni: Stone Cross, Bughea Gorges and Traditional Architecture

Culture

The commune of Godeni has preserved one of the most representative forms of traditional architecture in the Bughea River basin. A prominent historical landmark is the stone cross dating from 1662, classified as a national memorial or funerary monument. It is also known by the names “Crucea jupanului Nica” and “Crucea cea înaltă de la poarta bisericii”.

The stone cross marks the site where the Biserica Băneasa once stood. This church was the place of worship of the Golescu manor, was founded around 1650 and was built of wood. The connection between manor, church and memorial thus dates back to a time when religious and aristocratic buildings were closely linked.

Further historic buildings are located in villages belonging to the commune. The Biserica “Sfântul Nicolae” in Capu Piscului, within the commune of Godeni, is a local architectural monument dating from 1911. Cotești, also within the commune, is home to the Biserica “Nașterea Maicii Domnului”, a local architectural monument dating from 1880. Two different construction years and the documented wooden church of Biserica Băneasa thus stand alongside one another, without their respective dates of origin coinciding. Capu Piscului and Cotești add two further villages with their own churches to the historical connection with the former site of Biserica Băneasa. For visits to historic churches and monuments, it is advisable to check current opening hours and visitor information before travelling.

Nature

Fântâna Comanei is regarded as a natural monument and has been historically documented since 1720. According to local tradition, there was once an observation post at this location. The natural classification and historical tradition are directly associated with the same place here, but remain distinct as a current designation and a past use.

The Bughea River crosses the commune of Godeni from north to south. Near Godeni, close to the northern part of the village, it forms a narrow 300-metre-long section called “La Chei”. The gorges north of Godeni village are considered particularly picturesque landscape features. For journeys along river and gorge sections, current route conditions should be checked before travelling.

The territory of Godeni commune ranges from approximately 450 metres in the Bughea River valley to approximately 800 metres in the northwest. The elevation therefore describes a range between the valley area and the northwestern part of the commune, while “La Chei” refers to a specifically named, 300-metre-long section of the river.

Other Places

The same broader destination area also includes Bălilești, Coteneşti, Călinești, Lunca Corbului, Rogojina, Sălătrucu, Schitu Golești and Băiculeşti.

Transport

National road DN73C crosses the commune of Godeni and connects Câmpulung with Curtea de Argeș. Spectators at the Raliul Argeșului are advised to choose only safe viewing areas behind sturdy barriers when watching the competitions. For motorsport events, it is advisable to check the dates and viewing times before travelling.

For the broader travel overview: Argeş.