Balteni: Nature, Route and History

Nature

The Bălteni forest and botanical protected area lies in the floodplain of the Bârlad. Locally, this area is known as Dumbrava Bălteni. The protected area covers 18.8 hectares and is a nationally significant nature reserve in IUCN Category IV. The protection and conservation programme for the Pădurea Bălteni nature reserve includes two mammal species: the European hamster and the European souslik.

The ROSCI0158 Pădurea Bălteni–Hârboanca area was designated because of habitat type 91Y0. This consists of Dacian oak-hornbeam forests. This habitat covers 100 percent of the area and at the same time accounts for more than 15 percent of its occurrence at national level. Thus, the natural features range from the floodplain and forest area to the protected habitat and the conservation programme for two mammal species.

Hiking and Route

The Bălteni forest is listed as a local nature reserve and as a hiking destination with protected tree species. A designated tourist route passes through Bălteni and connects the village with several stops in the area around Vaslui. Its route begins in Vaslui, runs via Zăpodeni, Bălteni, Brăhăşoaia, Rebricea, Rafaila, Cozmeşti and Deleşti, and then returns to Vaslui. In this order, Bălteni lies between Zăpodeni and Brăhăşoaia. For a route with several stops, it is advisable to check the current route and the conditions along the way before setting out.

Culture and History

Bălteni is first mentioned in writing in a document issued on 15 October 1491 during the reign of Ștefan cel Mare. The documented history of the village therefore goes back to the 15th century. The documentary mention under Ștefan cel Mare places the earliest written evidence in the late 15th century.

The parish church of Bălteni is dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God and Saint Nicholas the Hierarch. Its construction began on 25 September 1844, and it was consecrated on 6 December 1847. The present parish church is considered the third church in the history of the community. During the earthquake of 10 November 1940, the parish church split into four parts. The tower and bells collapsed, but no bell was damaged.

Another historical trace is located on the first rise at the beginning of Dealul Siliştea near Bălteni. A feudal settlement dating from the 15th to the 17th century lies there. The parish church and settlement represent different historical points of reference: on the one hand, a 19th-century religious building; on the other, a feudal settlement from the 15th

More destinations

Those who would like to consider other destinations in addition to Bălteni when planning their trip can also find Vaslui, Valeni and Negrești.

Railway

Bălteni Hm. is a secondary railway stop. The stop serves Bălteni on railway main line 600. For a train journey, the current timetables for the railway stop should be checked before departure.

To the higher-level travel overview: Wassluy.