Hangu on Lake Izvorul Muntelui

At the viewpoint near Hangu, Pionul is reflected in Lake Izvorul Muntelui. Pionul is a peak or prominent landmark of the Ceahlău Massif. The road along the shore of Lake Izvorul Muntelui offers views of the surrounding hills, settlements in the valleys, and more distant mountain ridges. The municipality of Hangu stretches along the route from Bicaz towards Poiana Teiului beside Lake Izvorul Muntelui.

Landscape

The lakeside location is visible in several landscapes along the shore road. The views include the hills around the body of water, settlements in the valleys, and more distant mountain ridges. At the viewpoint, Pionul stands out as a prominent landmark of the Ceahlău Massif, reflected in the lake.

Churches and traditions

The parish church of Hangu is built of stone in the shape of a cross. It has two towers. An octagonal tower rises above the naos. A larger tower rises above the entrance porch and serves as a bell tower. The Schitul Hangu bears the patronages “Intrarea Maicii Domnului în Biserică” and “Sfântul Cuvios Pahomie”.

The former church in Gura Hangului was built from 1785 to 1795 and dedicated to Saint Nicholas. The Schitul Sihastru near Hangu was founded in the 15th century. The later cathedral of Hangu was built over a period of 30 years. It was completed and consecrated in 1951.

The wooden church from Gura Hangului, dating from 1829, was dismantled beam by beam. It was moved to Chirițeni above the lake. Casa Audia is located in the Muzeul Național al Satului „Dimitrie Gusti“ in Bucharest. It is attributed to Audia in the municipality of Hangu, Neamț County.

Further cultural traces

Movila Călugărului is located on Calea Mare in the village of Bouleţul Mic. The mound was built up from earth and branches. According to local tradition, passers-by place a branch on the monk’s grave. The grave has survived to this day.

Music and history

Hangu Echo is a children’s band. Its artistic activities made it an ambassador for the municipality of Hangu. The band took part in the Outlaws Festival and the Festival of Winter Customs and Traditions in Grințies. Hangu Echo also performed at various venues in the surrounding area.

Deep beneath the waters lie the ruins of the church that locals call “Hangu Cathedral”. The ruins of the “Catedrala de la Hangu” may become visible only in dry summers or severe winters, when the water level of Lake Bicaz falls and the lake freezes over completely.

Other places

Other places: Schitu Tarcău, Roman, Vădurele, Pipirig, Mânastirea Agapia, Văratec, Borca, Bicaz Chei

To the higher-level travel overview: Neamt.