Racoș – Natural Monuments and Cultural Sites

Nature and Geology

The Racoș Geological Complex is a geological protected area of national importance covering 95.2 ha. Since 2007, it has been integrated into the Natura 2000 site Dealurile Homoroadelor.

Carhaga is a 1.6 ha paleontological reserve designated as a natural monument. The Racoș Basalt Columns Reserve consists of prismatic basalt columns up to 18 m high. The basalt columns of Racoș are designated as a natural monument.

The lake in the former basalt quarry was formed by snowmelt and accumulated rainwater after basalt extraction had ceased. The lake in the former basalt quarry is at least 10 m deep and 100 m long. The Hegheș scoria quarry is also known as the Racoș Volcano.

The geological information thus combines different forms of classification: the complex is registered as a protected area, Carhaga as a paleontological reserve and natural monument, while the basalt columns also have this monument status. As for the lake, its former use as a basalt quarry remains part of its history of formation; its dimensions complement the description of this former extraction site. In this context, Hegheș is also referred to as the Racoș Volcano.

Hegheș Peak is 60 m high and offers a viewpoint over the surrounding landscape. The Cotul Turnuzului botanical and ornithological reserve lies within the administrative territories of the municipalities of Racoș and Hoghiz. Numerous bird species breed in the Cotul Turnuzului Reserve along the Transylvanian route of the European migration corridor.

Chicioara Peak is located in the immediate vicinity of Racoș. La Movile Peak is also located in the immediate vicinity of Racoș. Capu Mare Peak is located in the area around Racoș. Motilor Peak is likewise located in the area around Racoș.

Culture and History

The “Ziua Pietrei” festival takes place every summer in Racoș as an annual cultural event. Dealul Vărăriei is a fortification from the Early Iron Age and the Dacian period.

Mihályvára is considered a refuge fortress because of its secluded location in a side valley and the good view of the Olt Gorge. However, the interpretation as a refuge fortress is subject to reservations.

The Piatra Detunată archaeological site lies halfway between Augustin and Racoșul de Jos on the left bank of the Olt. In the area around Racoș are the Biserica Ortodoxă Jimbor, the Biserica Reformată Jimbor, and the Biserica Catolică Jimbor; all three are churches. The Biserica Lutherană Caţa is also a church in the area around Racoș.

The cultural sites complement the natural monuments with various historical layers. The festival is part of the town’s annual present-day life, Dealul Vărăriei refers to the Early Iron Age and the Dacian period, and Mihályvára is associated with a cautiously worded historical interpretation. Piatra Detunată, by contrast, is described through its precise location between two places and on the left bank of the Olt. The churches mentioned are located in the surroundings of Racoș and broaden the cultural classification through several named religious buildings.

Further Destinations

Further destinations for your research: Rupea, Sâmbăta De Sus, Făgăraş, Bunești, Șercaia, Deutsch-Weißkirch, Șirnea and Moieciu De Jos.

Getting There

Racoș can be reached from the DN13/E60 via the DJ 131C along a 10 km route.

For the higher-level travel overview: Brasov.