Salt-related geological and cultural heritage in Romania

Abstract

In the intra- and extra-Carpathian areas of Romania, 8 salt-related nature monuments and Natura 2000 sites were declared by law, most ofthem in areas with ancient or active salt mines (Turda, Ocna Sibiului, Praid, Slănic Prahova), or salt springs (Sărăţel, Sarea lui Buzău). Two other geologicalreserves represent areas with saline exo- and endokarst (Algheanu, Meledic) in the Subcarpathian Nappe of the East Carpathians. A large number ofremarkable salt-related archeological sites occur both in the East Carpathians, as well as in the Transylvanian basin, accompanied by brine wells and saltsprings. Archaeological research in areas with salt springs and fountains recovered various remains from the Neo-Eneolithic (Lunca-Poiana Slatinei), BronzeAge and the second Iron Age (Băile Figa), along with elements from post-Roman, medieval and premodern times. All these natural and cultural sites arebriefly presented here.