Discover Malu Mare: History and Cultural Heritage

Several distinct points of interest can help you plan a stay in Malu Mare: more than 500 years of local history, religious architecture, memorial sites and a protected nature area. These themes offer different perspectives on the commune—from the settlement’s development and historic buildings to the region’s natural heritage.

History and local development

Malu Mare has a documented history spanning more than 500 years. The place was first mentioned in a written record in 1494. The duration and the year describe different aspects: the former points to its long history, while the latter gives a specific historical reference point. Malu Mare was originally called Ciulniţa. Because of frequent flooding in the Jiu lowlands on the left bank of the river, the settlement was moved to higher ground along the Jiu. Its former location and relocation are among the key stages in the development of the place.

Church and cultural heritage

The Biserica Sf. Ştefan şi Sf. Gheorghe stands in Preajba. It is a historic monument of religious architecture dating from the 17th century and was founded in 1779 by Hagi Stan Jianu. A mural in the Brâncovenesc tradition has been preserved inside the church to this day. The church also houses religious books and icons from the 19th century, as well as original columns made in the 18th century. Here, a historic architectural classification, a named painting tradition and furnishings from several centuries come together.

An earlier historical reference is the Ansamblul curţii boiereşti Jieni, located in the commune of Malu Mare and dating to the 16th century. Han Preajba was formerly known as Conacul Iancu Jianu. These additional historical references complement the religious architecture with a dated ensemble and a former name.

Remembrance and natural surroundings

A memorial in the centre of the village commemorates residents of Malu Mare who took part in or fought in the War of Independence of 1877, the Peasants’ Revolt of 1907, and the war for national unification from 1916 to 1918. In addition to the two wartime references, the monument also commemorates a peasant revolt.

The protected natural area Complexul lacustru Preajba-Făcăi lies within the territory of the commune of Malu Mare and in its immediate vicinity. It provides a landscape-related point of interest alongside the village’s religious and commemorative heritage. Your planning can therefore draw on historic points of interest and a protected natural area as distinct areas of interest.

Getting there

National Road 55 crosses the commune of Malu Mare and connects it with other places in the region. The commune also has its own railway station. The road connection and railway station are separate points of reference when planning your journey. If you are considering travelling by train, check the timetable for your travel dates.

For an overview of the wider trip: Comuna Malu Mare.