România Mea

Sarmizegetusa Regia

4.7(566 reviews)J8C4+7W, Grădiştea de Munte, România
Sarmizegetusa Regia

Sarmizegetusa Regia was the political, military and religious capital of the Dacian kingdom, set high in the Orastie Mountains in the Hunedoara area. Listed as UNESCO World Heritage together with the other Dacian fortresses, the settlement comprised a strongly defended stronghold, a civilian quarter and a remarkable sacred zone with circular and rectangular sanctuaries of stone and wood, including the famous andesite sun. This was the seat of King Decebalus before the Roman conquest of the year 106, following the wars waged by Emperor Trajan. Visitors can walk the ancient paved lanes, see the foundations of the sanctuaries and the walls built in the distinctive Dacian technique.

The natural setting, with dense forests and deep silence, gives the place a special atmosphere. Access is by mountain road and then a footpath, and comfortable footwear is needed. It is a key site for the ancient history of Romania.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Sarmizegetusa Regia?+

Sarmizegetusa Regia is located at J8C4+7W, Grădiştea de Munte, România, in Hunedoara.

Is Sarmizegetusa Regia worth visiting?+

Yes — it holds a 4.7/5 rating from 566 visitor reviews.

Do I need to book tickets for Sarmizegetusa Regia?+

Popular sights can sell out — booking ahead online saves queuing.

What else is near Sarmizegetusa Regia?+

Nearby you'll find Lacul Bucura, Prislop - Mănăstirea Prislop, Biserica Densuș.

Keep exploring

More of Hunedoara

Explore Hunedoara

See in Hunedoara

See all
Lacul BucuraNature

Lacul Bucura

Lake Bucura is the largest glacial lake in Romania, set at over 2000 metres altitude in the heart of the Retezat massif in Hunedoara county, one of the wildest and most beautiful corners of the Southern Carpathians. Formed after the retreat of former glaciers, the lake spreads within a broad cirque surrounded by lofty peaks and alpine meadows scattered with boulders, offering scenery of grand beauty. The clear water reflects the surrounding crests, and the area is considered one of the most spectacular in the entire Carpathian chain. The lake lies within the Retezat national park, an internationally recognised biosphere reserve that shelters numerous glacial lakes, chamois, marmots and a rich flora, including endemic species. The Bucura area is a central point for hiking and a popular camping spot for those exploring the massif, with many trails setting off here towards the surrounding peaks. Access demands effort and good fitness, but the alpine scenery fully rewards the long climb.

4.9(191 reviews)
Prislop - Mănăstirea PrislopMonastery

Prislop - Mănăstirea Prislop

Prislop Monastery, hidden in a wooded glade in the Hațeg Land of Hunedoara county, is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Transylvania. Founded in the 14th century and linked to the monk Nicodemus of Tismana, the settlement has a rich history, renewed over the centuries and connected to leading figures of Romanian Orthodoxy. Its contemporary fame owes much to Father Arsenie Boca, a renowned confessor whose grave in the monastery cemetery draws tens of thousands of the faithful each year. The natural setting, with forest, a spring and deep silence, reinforces the atmosphere of contemplation. Visitors find a modest church, monastic cells and a landscape that invites reflection. As an active place of worship, modest dress and respect for services are advised; check the liturgical and visiting schedule.

4.8(26,102 reviews)
Biserica DensușChurch

Biserica Densuș

The church of Densuș in Hunedoara County is regarded as one of the oldest stone churches in Romania still in use, and its unusual appearance has fascinated visitors for centuries. Probably built in the thirteenth century on the site of older structures, it was raised largely from Roman stones brought from the nearby fortress of Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa. In its walls one can recognise slabs with Latin inscriptions, shaped blocks, and reused column fragments, a true collage of ancient material. The very narrow interior shelters fresco fragments from the fifteenth century, painted by local masters. The massive silhouette, with a central tower resting on heavy pillars and a stone roof, gives it an archaic, almost unreal character. Visitors should look closely at the walls to find the Roman traces and respect the cramped space of a church that is still in liturgical use.

4.8(2,315 reviews)

Eat in Hunedoara

See all

Stay in Hunedoara

See all

Plan your Romania

From the Carpathians to the Black Sea — let's plan the trip together.

Ask us anything or get a tailored itinerary — from the best time to go to the road that ties it all together.

Our network

More of Romania, in depth

Dedicated portals for the places that deserve a site of their own.