Comuna Malu Mare: Jiu Valley, Nature and History
Accommodation in Comuna Malu Mare
Located in the Jiu Valley, Comuna Malu Mare lies in the contact zone between the Getic Piedmont and the Romanian Plain. Nature watching, landscapes and traces of local history from different periods give the commune clear themes for a stay. If you are looking for a hotel for a trip focused on nature and history, these highlights can help shape your choice of destination.
Landscape and nature along the Jiu
The Bălăciței unit borders the area to the northwest, while the Oltețului unit lies to the northeast. This places the region in context through both the Jiu Valley and its neighbouring landscape units. In the Malu Mare area, riverside habitats along the Jiu are part of the Natura 2000 site ROSCI0045 Coridorul Jiului. The large copper butterfly (Lycaena dispar) has also been recorded in the Malu Mare area.
Another natural highlight is the Complexul lacustru Preajba - Făcăi protected area. It lies north of Preajba, close to the DN55 national road. Among the birds that can be observed in the area are great egrets, white storks, little egrets, coots, pochards, greylag geese and great reed warblers. Birdwatching is seasonal, so plan this part of your visit according to the time of year. Alongside the broader landscape, specific habitats and species are also worth exploring.
Archaeological and architectural history
Malu Mare was first documented in 1494. A Hallstatt-period settlement was discovered at “La jumătăți” on the left terrace of the Jiu, 250 metres west of the town hall. The pottery found there is attributed to the Basarabi culture. These details refer to distinct periods: 1494 marks the first written record, while the settlement dates to the Hallstatt period.
The architectural history belongs to a different era: today’s Han Preajba is the former Conacul Iancu Jianu, built in the 18th century. For many years, it was one of the area’s most important places for recreation. Its former role as a retreat adds another dimension to the local history.
Getting there and choosing where to search
Road and rail are two different points of reference for planning your journey. The DN55 national road crosses Malu Mare and connects the commune with other places in the region. CFR Malu Mare station is on the Bucharest–Craiova–Timișoara railway line. If you plan to travel by train, check the specific connections for your travel dates.
The road connection and the station’s location offer different points of reference; which matters more depends on your own travel plans.
Fishing in Preajba-Făcăi
Preajba-Făcăi is listed in Malu Mare as a 19-hectare fishing lake. If fishing is part of your stay, check the applicable fishing rules and access conditions before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Malu Mare, Comuna Brădești, Comuna Rojiște.
Go to the main travel overview: Dolj.
