Hărău Commune: Garden Art and Archaeological Traces

In Hărău Commune, the I Giardini di Zoe garden in Banpotoc, archaeological sites near Banpotoc, Hărău and Chimindia, and churches dating from different centuries give your trip a range of focuses. There is also a connection to the Natura 2000 protected area Piemontul Munților Metaliferi – Vințu and a link to the traditional gastronomy route in Bârsău. You can plan your visit around garden art, archaeology, churches or regional gastronomy.

Garden Art in Banpotoc

I Giardini di Zoe is a landscaped garden based on the architectural principles of Italian Renaissance gardens. Its features include ornamental trees and shrubs, fountains and numerous paths. The garden contains several thousand plant species, stone decorations and stone ornaments. Domes formed by trimmed hedges, paths with travertine steps and green mazes complete the scene. Plantings, water, stone and pathways thus stand out as distinct aspects of garden design.

Access is via county road DJ 107A, not directly from the village of Banpotoc. Check the current access situation before setting off.

Archaeological Traces Through Time

The Coțofeni settlement near Banpotoc lies within Hărău Commune. It dates to the Early Bronze Age and the Coțofeni culture. A Neolithic settlement is also among Chimindia’s archaeological remains. The Hărău–Pe Șag archaeological site lies near the villages of Hărău and Chimindia, on a clearly defined terrace alongside the present-day Mureș floodplain, on the river’s right bank. An assemblage from a partially sunken settlement was discovered there, confirming the presence of post-Roman communities.

The different chronological references span the Neolithic, the Early Bronze Age and the Coțofeni culture, as well as post-Roman communities. The sites also differ in location. Hărău–Pe Șag is described in terms of its terrace location alongside the Mureș floodplain, while the Coțofeni settlement near Banpotoc lies within the commune.

Churches Dating from Different Centuries

The stone church „Sfântul Dumitru“ in Hărău is a national architectural monument dating from the 18th century. In Chimindia, the church „Cuvioasa Paraschiva“ dates from the 16th century and is also a national architectural monument. The different dates offer a clear comparison if you are interested in the architectural history of the churches.

More to Explore in Chimindia and Bârsău

Castelul Lupilor Transilvania is located in Chimindia. In March 2024, the estate included a garden with traditional miniature houses. As this visitor information may change, check whether the garden is currently open to visitors before planning a visit. The Natura 2000 protected area Piemontul Munților Metaliferi – Vințu is also associated with the area of Hărău Commune, adding a nature and protected-area dimension to its historical attractions.

In July 2022, Bârsău was part of Hunedoara’s traditional gastronomy route. In July 2022, the route also featured producers accredited by Romania’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. If you include Bârsău in your travel plans, check the route’s current presentation; the information given here dates from July 2022.

Plan Your Stay

If you’re looking for a hotel for a trip to Hărău Commune, first decide which themes matter most to you: gardens, archaeology, churches or gastronomy.

Discover more destinations: Banpotoc, Certeju De Sus Commune, Densuș Commune, Santamaria - Orlea, Teliucu Inferior Commune, Bosorod, Orastioara de Sus, Hunedoara

For the broader travel overview: Hunedoara.