Author Archives: Iulian VIMp

About Iulian VIMp

Via Bacovia project initiator, amateur photographer, runner. "Computer scientist" by profession.

Calvar Chapel (Calvaria)

Calvar Chapel – A Place of Peace and Reflection

Nestled atop the scenic Calvar Hill in Luizi-Călugăra, Bacău County, the Calvar Chapel is a historical and spiritual gem that offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich past. Built in 1814, the chapel was dedicated to the Descent of the Holy Spirit, and over the years, it has become an important place for both locals and visitors alike, offering moments of reflection and tranquility.

The chapel is renowned not only for its spiritual significance but also for its stunning location. Standing on the hill, it provides sweeping views of the village of Luizi-Călugăra, the surrounding valleys, and the distant horizon. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation and connection with nature.

Visitors can experience the beauty of the landscape, particularly at sunrise when the first light casts a golden glow over the valley. The chapel is a testament to the deep spiritual and cultural heritage of the region, and its serene surroundings allow for a deeper connection with both history and nature.

Whether you’re seeking a place for peaceful reflection, a historical exploration, or simply a beautiful vantage point to appreciate …

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Gherț Chapel (The Ascension of The Lord)

Welcome to the Ghert Chapel, the Heroes’ Chapel “Ascension of the Lord”

Perched atop the Osebiti Hill (Gherța or Gherț) in Luizi-Călugăra, Romania, the Ghert Chapel is a landmark of the nation’s history and a place of beauty. Built after World War I to honor those who sacrificed their lives in war and the Romanian War of Independence, this chapel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the city of Bacău.

An altar of devotion and tranquility:

Dedicated to the Ascension of the Lord, the Gherț Chapel attracts visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and beautifully contoured architecture. Its simple, elegant, beautifully rounded design, adorned with religious motifs, creates a sense of spirituality and reverence.

A symbol of resilience and patriotism:

The Ghert Chapel serves as a moving reminder of Romania’s history and the courage of its people. It is a symbol of resistance, a testament to the enduring spirit of those who fought for their nation’s freedom. Inside, marble slabs bear the names of those from the local area who gave their lives in the two wars mentioned above. Moreover, in the immediate vicinity of the chapel, the ground still holds hidden traces of battles that took place …

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Ciciola Chapel

Welcome to the Ciciola Chapel

Located under the high Carunta Peak (717 m) on the picturesque Ciciola Hill in Faraoani, Romania, in a small clearing, the Ciciola Chapel is a place of spiritual peace and natural beauty. This chapel is a first or last stop along the famous 7 Chapels Pilgrimage route, offering visitors a unique feeling of harmony between faith, heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

A sacred destination

Built to inspire and guide pilgrims, the Ciciola Chapel is more than a landmark – it is a place of reflection and renewal. Located approximately 3 kilometers from the picturesque “Vis” plateau, the chapel offers an ideal setting for prayer, peace or moments of personal tranquility amidst the hills and forests.

Part of a rich pilgrimage tradition

As the sixth stop, or the first, depending on the direction of travel, on the 7 Chapels Pilgrimage Route, the Ciciola Chapel holds a special place in the spiritual journey through Bacău County. Whether you walk the entire route or visit these chapels separately, Ciciola is a highlight that should not be missed.

More than a chapel

Visitors to the Ciciola Chapel can enjoy:

A magnificent natural setting: the clearing where the chapel is …

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Suhard Chapel (Sinislău)

Location: Sinislău Hill, Luizi Călugăra commune, Bacău county
Geographical coordinates: 46.51867667204952, 26.84153213325184
Google maps: here
Access:
1. The access can be done on foot, from Sărata, from MTB Bar or

2. From Luizi-Călugăra leaving the church towards the hill and at the intersection with the Road between the Vii you enter this road, or
3. From the Cattaleya guesthouse, go up the road on the right and then, when you reach the forest, turn left towards Sărata. Depending on the weather, up to a point can be reached by car or by bike.
Description:
The Suhard Chapel is built on Sinislău hill, one of the highest points near Bacău. From here you have a beautiful view over the city, the village and the valley. You can also admire the sunrise from here.
The chapel was built by the Neculai I. Horvat family in 1932, with the feast of St John the Baptist, in June.

Chapel of the Ascension

Location: Nicolae Bălcescu commune, Bacău county
Geographical coordinates: 46°28’52.5″N 26°51’46.2″E
Google maps: here
Access:
1. The access can be done by car, on an unpaved road, going up from Valea Seacă. From the bottom of the hill you walk about 500 metres.
2. On foot or by bicycle from Valea Seacă, Nicolae Balcescu or other places, following the Via Bacovia routes.
Description:
The chapel “Jesus’ Ascension to Heaven” is built on Albeni hill between Valea Seacă and Balțata. It is perhaps not by chance that this place, a favourite with paragliding enthusiasts, has this name.

The chapel was built in the 19th century, the exact date is unknown. It was built in honour of heroes.

Chapel of Saints Constantine and Helen

Location: village Buchila, commune Nicolae Balcescu, county Bacău
Geographical coordinates: 46.456477, 26.865037
Google maps:here
Access:
1. Access can be made on foot, from Buchila or from Valea Seacă
3. By bike

Maps:
1. Via Bacovia – Big Map
2. Route – Southern Chapels

Description:
The Chapel of Saints Emperors Constantine and Helen is built on the hill in the locality of Buchila. From here you can reach the Ciciola Chapel (about 4Km) following forest roads. From here you can also reach the chapel “Ascension of Jesus to Heaven”.

The chapel was founded in 1888.

Grotto of St Virgin Mary

Location: Luizi Călugăra commune, Bacău county
Geographical coordinates: 46°31’47.5″N 26°49’48.9″E
Google maps: here
Access:
1. Access can be made on foot either from Hotel Măgura Verde or from the commune of Luizi Călugăra at the end of the village on Pârăului Street.
2. On foot or by bicycle, following the Via Bacovia trails.
Description:
The Grotto of St. Virgin Mary was consecrated on 15 August 2006 in memory of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. On the way from the church to the grotto there are 14 crosses representing the 14 stations of the Way of the Holy Cross. The Grotto is celebrated on 15 August.

Below is a video clip by Gabriel Horvat,

Lake Bacau 2 – Bacău Delta

Location: Bacău, Bacău county
Geographical coordinates: 46.575152, 26.925182
Google maps:here
Access:
1. Access is on foot, there are several access points
3. By bike
Description:
To be completed.

Lake Racaciuni

Location: county Bacău
Geographical coordinates: 446°22’16.5″N 27°00’13.9″E (46.371317, 27.003901)
Google maps:here
Access:
1. Access can be made on foot from the villages around the lake
2. By car
3. By bicycle

Situated only a few kilometres from the city of Bacău, Lake Răcăciuni is currently a category IV nature reserve (birdlife reserve), as a result of Government Decision No 2151 of 30 November 2004. The protected area extends over the administrative territories of several municipalities (Cleja, Gioseni, Horgești, Faraoani, Pâncești and Răcăciuni) and covers an area of about 2000 hectares.

The lake was formed following the commissioning of the Răcăciuni hydropower plant in 1984. It has a length of about 13 kilometres and is the third largest lake in terms of water volume in the county, after the lakes of Valea Uzului and Berești, and represents the largest protected lake area in Bacău County.

Beyond the figures: the lake has a marvellous view and is a good place to spend leisure time. Also near the lake, passing on the left bank between Râcâtâu and Dieneț, are the ruins of the Dacian fortress of Tamasidava, which is considered the SECOND Dacian fortress in terms of importance and size!

End of October with Via Bacovia

Taking advantage of the good weather and vibrant autumn colours, the last weekend of October was spent in nature, in the beautiful places around Bacău.
On Saturday, 26 October, we walked the Magura-Negel-Sohodol trail. A route that climbs up the Negel Valley, crosses some beautiful floodplains and paths through the forest and then returns to Magura via Sohodol, where we have a beautiful view over the city. It was an event organised by the Municipality of Măgura together with Via Bacovia.

The last Sunday in October was spent hiking on the Valea Dragă-Buchila-Ciciola trail and then relaxing on the water of Lake Racăciuni, near Tamasidava. So many great places in one day!

Capela Sfinților Împărați Constantin și Elena

Capela Ciciola

Traseu Măgura-Negel-Sohodol