It is the village on the plateau between Piatra Craiului and the Bucegi, and First World War trenches, restored in 2018, survive around it.
About the place
Ciocanu lies about 3 km from Dâmbovicioara village, on the plateau east of Piatra Craiului National Park. It belonged to Rucăr commune until 1931, and its people were mostly moșneni, free peasants who owned their land. The county road DJ730 climbs here from Dâmbovicioara and continues to Șirnea in Brașov County; on the way out towards Dâmbovicioara is the spot called Vârful Ciocanu, with a view over the hills and forests of the Rucăr–Bran corridor.
Around the village there are trenches, defensive walls and machine-gun nests from the First World War, from the Romanian Army's first battles for Transylvania in 1916. The 2nd Mountain Troops Brigade 'Sarmizegetusa' from Brașov restored them in summer 2018. The village also has two old stone crosses listed as monuments: one from the 18th century on the road to Șirnea and one from 1815.
Good to know
- In winter the road climbs above 1,000 m and may have snow: come with winter tyres.
- Stop at the Vârful Ciocanu viewpoint only on the wide verge of the DJ730, not on the road.
- The meadows are the villagers' hay fields and pastures: keep to roads and paths.
Opening hours
Opening hours are not confirmed. Check the venue's website before you go.