In the picturesque heart of Romania, hidden among the towering peaks of the Fagaras Mountains, lies a small village with stunning natural beauty – Arpasu de Sus. This oasis of tranquility and greenery attracts nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers seeking an authentic experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
Strategically located at the foot of some of the most impressive mountain landscapes in Romania, Arpasu de Sus offers you the chance to explore spectacular mountain trails, visit invaluable historical sites like the Holy Carta Monastery, and enjoy the rural charm of Transylvania.
Arpasu de Sus is an ideal place for nature and adventure lovers. Located in the heart of Tara Fagarasului, this picturesque village offers a variety of activities for hikers of all levels.
In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know to turn your visit into a memorable adventure.
Sambata de Sus Monastery: When you think of Tara Fagarasului, you immediately think of the Sambata de Sus Monastery, this blessed and beautiful place, a Brancovenesc foundation rebuilt by King Michael, where Father Arsenie Boca was once an abbot. Be sure to visit the unique museum of icons on glass and old books.
Transfagarasan: Stretching for 151 km along a north-south axis through the Fagaras Mountains, the highest mountain range in Romania, part of the Southern Carpathians, DN7C, known as the Transfagarasan, is a spectacular national road connecting the historical region of Wallachia with Transylvania. Built between 1970 and 1974, it starts in Bascov, Arges County (near Pitesti), and ends at the intersection with DN1 between Sibiu and Brasov, near the village of Cartisoara, with the section from the Vidraru Dam to Cartisoara traversing high-altitude mountainous terrain for approximately 91 km.
Sambata de Jos Stud Farm: At Sambata de Jos, you can visit the Lipizzaner horse stud farm, founded during the time of Count Johannes de Brukenthal in 1874, which houses over 300 purebred Lipizzaner horses. Horse riding enthusiasts can relax for a few hours in the company of these horses.
Hiking in the Fagaras Mountains to Valea Sambetei Cabin: What could be better than coming to the mountains and taking a few hours’ hike up to the alpine meadow of the Fagaras Mountains at the Valea Sambetei Cabin? A dreamlike view will unfold before your eyes, and those with courage and proper equipment can climb to the Fagaras ridge, the longest ridge trail in Europe, reaching the Moldoveanu, Vistea Mare, and Negoiu peaks, the highest in the Carpathians.
Rucar-Fagaras Village: Situated in the heart of Tara Fagarasului, Rucar-Fagaras is a picturesque village known for its spectacular natural landscapes and traditional atmosphere. With authentic houses and well-kept gardens, the village offers a genuine glimpse into rural Transylvanian life.
The Carpathian Mountains are renowned for their impressive landscapes and lush forests, offering an ideal natural setting for a relaxing getaway. In this picturesque region, you’ll find the Holy Carta Monastery, a place filled with history and spirituality. Here, you can explore the beauty of nature and enjoy the peace that this wonderful place provides.
Guided by legends and devotion, the Cistercian monks chose this place to build a place of worship and contemplation, and in the 13th century, their dream became a reality. Today, the monastery continues to be an oasis of tranquility and reflection for those who step into its ancient courtyards.
Every stone of the monastery seems to carry the mark of time and faith, and its Gothic architecture enchants both the eyes and the soul of any visitor. The gentle light filtering through the high windows caresses your face and invites you to delve into its depths, where silence speaks as eloquently as the prayers of the monks.
Visiting the Cistercian Monastery at Carta, located near Arpasu de Sus, is a true journey through time. As you approach the impressive ruins of the abbey, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the daily hustle and reconnect with the deep history of this place.
The cistercian monks: “Ora et Labora”
The Cistercian monks, who built and served at Carta, followed the motto “Ora et Labora” (Pray and Work). They were known as “peasant monks,” living solely from their own labor. The consumption of meat was prohibited, with fish being the only allowed source of protein, and the Cistercians became true masters of fish farming and agriculture. They transformed unproductive and marshy lands into fertile ones and promoted viticulture in the regions where they settled.
In Transylvania, the Cistercians had exclusive rights in milling and blacksmithing, and they were involved in the construction of fortified churches, such as the one at Prejmer. They also specialized in building hydraulic and fish farming systems, contributing to the economic and agricultural development of the region.
Through their tireless work and the privileges they received, the Cistercian monks became increasingly influential and wealthy, which brought them into conflict with local communities, especially those from Sibiu, who saw them as an economic threat.
The decline of Carta Monastery
These economic and political tensions culminated in 1474, when Matthias Corvinus decided to dissolve the Cistercian monastery at Carta. The monastery’s properties were transferred to the church in Sibiu, thus ending the religious and economic activities of the monks in this region. Although the abbey was officially dissolved, its ruins continue to attract visitors seeking to rediscover a part of Transylvania’s fascinating history.
Arpasu de Sus: The gateway to the Carta Monastery
Located just a few kilometers from Arpasu de Sus, the Carta Monastery can be easily explored by those visiting this picturesque area in Tara Fagarasului.
Arpasu de Sus is not only an ideal starting point for mountain adventures but also a gateway to discovering historical treasures, such as the ruins of the Cistercian abbey.
The history and legend of the Carta Monastery
In a quiet corner of Transylvania, near the picturesque village of Arpasu de Sus, lies a true architectural and spiritual treasure – the Cistercian Abbey of Carta. Devotedly built in the 13th century by Cistercian monks, the abbey today shines as a symbol of perseverance and faith in a constantly changing world. Surrounded by ancient forests and crystal-clear springs, the ruins of the abbey offer a unique atmosphere of contemplation and reflection, attracting both history lovers and those interested in spirituality.
Founded around the year 1202, the abbey is not only an architectural monument of impressive beauty but also a silent witness to a tumultuous historical period. The Cistercian monks, who left a deep mark on European spirituality, transformed this monastery into a sanctuary of prayer and worship. Today, visitors are invited to stop in front of the imposing walls of the abbey and connect with the past.
A blend of Romanesque and early Gothic Architecture
What makes the Abbey of Carta truly remarkable is its architectural style, which combines Romanesque elements with early Gothic. Although many of the structures are in ruins, visitors can still observe impressive architectural details, such as the Gothic windows with pointed arches framed by semicircular Romanesque arches. These details are not just architectural ornaments but a true testament to the devotion and craftsmanship of the monks who built this sanctuary.
Arpasu de Sus is the perfect place for those who love nature and tranquility. This village offers you the opportunity to relax, enjoy fresh air, and hike through spectacular landscapes. Far from the hustle and bustle of the cities, here you will find the peace and beauty of nature.
Whether you want to relax in nature or explore historical attractions, Arpasu de Sus is a wonderful destination, ideal for a peaceful getaway.
