Rimetea Village

Rimetea is a small village with white houses and green windows, loved by time and cherished by its inhabitants. Even though it is nestled against the majestic mountains of Apuseni, it offers an image to treasure all your life. Like a true fairy-tale village, Rimetea is absolutely fascinating. It has an interesting history and an amazing architecture. Born in the 13th century from the hard work of the miners, Rimetea was settled here to wrest iron from the depths of the mountains. Nowadays, it is a Hungarian village. But over time, this region was also home to Austrians, Germans, and Romanians, which led to an original cultural blend endowing Rimetea with a seducing charm.

Rimetea Village received the Europa Nostra award.

Due to its uniqueness, in 1996, the village was included in a project conducted by Transylvania Trust Foundation. Back then, it focused on the rehabilitation of the old civil constructions. Thus there were restored 160 traditional houses. The result of the project can now be admired when visiting this captivating village. Rimetea was once a nameless settlement with a poor economy based on agriculture. Now, instead, it is an inspiring place. The village is housed by hard working people, proud of their legacy.  No wonder they received “Europa Nostra” Silver Medal for their strong involvement in the restoration program. Also, this project revived the old traditional crafts, and many people acquired restoration skills and knowledge. Therefore, the local economy registered a real boost, and tourism has become an important source of income for the community.

Tourists are warmly welcomed in the numerous guesthouses with great local food and a large variety of outdoor activities. The landmark of Rimetea is Szekler’s Stone, a steep and rather isolated peak. Part of Trascau Mountains, it is perfect for a quick and invigorating hike. People here like to say that, in Rimetea, the sun rises twice. That is because, after the initial sunrise, the sun's rays are blocked for a while by the pointy rock and reaper later, this time, for good. In close vicinity, there are many natural attractions. You can find narrow gorges and caves, beautiful green meadows and many places perfect for paragliding. Let's not forget about one of the most important medieval fortresses of Transylvania, Coltesti.

Opened in 1952, the local ethnographic museum is consisting of a large collection of authentic traditional objects collected by a group of locals. Besides that, it reveals the rich history of the region. Tourist may also visit the ruins of some former iron mines, family tombs carved in rocks, the medieval fortified church and an 18th century still working water mill.