Uriu: Churches, Inscriptions and History

Uriu can be understood through its churches, historical links to Ciceu Castle, and former traditions of winemaking and river transport. There is also a specific public bus connection for getting there. If you are looking for a hotel in Uriu, these cultural and practical aspects can help you plan your trip.

Bus Connection and Getting Around

According to the 2026 timetable, public county bus route 38 runs from Beclean Autogară to Agrieșel and stops in Uriu. The timetable lists Uriu at a cumulative distance of 10 km from Beclean Autogară. Keep in mind that these are timetable details that may change. Check the latest departure times before travelling.

Churches, Inscriptions and Architectural Forms

In the village of Uriu, the Reformed church preserves a Latin inscription dated 1622. The wooden church in the northern part of the village was built around 1731 and is dedicated to the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. Another church in Uriu is dedicated to the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel. It has a single-nave plan, with no apses and no central tower.

A single-nave church has one main nave; apses are usually semicircular or polygonal structures at the end of the chancel.

A medieval Roman Catholic church is not located in the village of Uriu itself, but in the western part of Cristeștii Ciceului, north of DN17 and on the right bank of the Târlișua stream. This village belongs to the commune of Uriu. Its location helps distinguish the church in Cristeștii Ciceului from the churches in the village of Uriu.

Historical Connections in Uriu and the Surrounding Area

Uriu historically belonged to Ciceu Castle, or Cetatea Ciceului. Winemaking and river transport are also part of the region’s recorded history: the inhabitants of Uriu and Cristeștii Ciceului were historically known for winemaking. In the past, rafts carrying grain from several villages, including Uriu and Cristeștii Ciceului, travelled along the Someș. These two connections reflect different aspects of local history: growing grapes for wine and transporting grain by river.

Another cultural landmark is in the nearby village of Cristeștii Ciceului. There, a total of 11 statues stand along a route less than 2 km long. The statues are therefore part of the surrounding area within the commune of Uriu, not the village of Uriu itself. Together with the churches, they offer another way to explore the history and visible cultural features of the area.

Fishing as Another Option

Lake Kendertau, where fishing is possible, is located near Uriu. Uriu is also home to Balta lui OTTO, a fishing venue. Check the latest operating details for Balta lui OTTO before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Poiana Ilvei, Ragla, Bistriţa, Sebiş, Şieu-Măgheruş, Romuli, Bretea, Telciu.

For the broader travel overview: Bistrita-Nasaud.