Prahova County, situated in the central part of Romania, spans an area of approximately 4,716 square kilometers. Thus, it represents circa 2% of the total national territory. It lies surrounded by Brasov to the north, Buzau to the east, Ialomita and Ilfov to the south, and Dâmbovita to the west.[3] Prahova's capital city, Ploiesti, is situated in the southern part of the county. The town bears considerable history, which is reflected in preserved landmarks scattered across its territory, including the Clock Museum, Oil Museum, and Peter and Pavol Church, to name a few.[6] Geographically, Prahova County's landscape is said to form an "amphitheater" with mountains covering its northern part and lowlands representing its south. The altitudes span from 70 to 2,505 meters above sea level, which causes considerable differences in climate across the county.[3] In the northwestern corner of Prahova stretches the Bucegi Natural Park, preserving endangered and rare species.[10] However, the park also tends to be visited for its rock formations, such as the Romanian Sphinx or the Old Women. Furthermore, Bucegi offers several hiking and climbing opportunities.[8] During the summer, specifically July and August, average temperatures are the highest, which is seemingly the reason that some travelers consider this season to be the best time to visit.[9]
Ploiesti, a city marked by a considerable history, once featured a historical architecture that was severely damaged during the US military bombing in 1943 and later replaced by the Communist regime's brutalist structures. Despite this, some surviving historic buildings still stand in the city to this day.
The town offers several attractions for visitors, including the Clock Museum, housing over 1,000 sundials, astronomical clocks, and vintage watches. One can also find Casa Hagi Prodan, representing an 18th-century merchant's lifestyle in the oldest non-religious building in the city. At the same time, the Archeology and History Museum and the Oil Museum delve into the region's history and petroleum heritage.
Art enthusiasts can explore the Ploiesti Art Gallery, while people interested in history may visit the Peter and Paul church in Plopeni village, a historical monument. Other notable landmarks include the Cultural Palace in neoclassical style, the Central Market Hall with its dome and clock tower, and the Statue of Liberty, a gift from France. The Grand Synagogue represents another historical site.[6]
In the northeastern part of Prahova County are found the Bucegi Mountains, providing natural attractions and hiking possibilities. Among the local destinations, people can discover Babele (the Old Women), a rock formation recognized as one of the mountains' most noted features. Another sight is the Romanian Sphinx, a natural rock formation resembling a human head, sculpted over millennia by wind erosion. Reportedly, the Romanian Sphinx is the source of several local legends and myths as well. Omu Peak, the highest point in the Bucegi Mountains, is accessible via several hiking trails, with 39 marked trekking routes in total. For those seeking climbing and spelunking adventures, the Bucegi area offers opportunities in places such as Adanca Valley, Valea Poienii, and Rapa Zapezii. Accessible by cable car from the Busteni resort in the Prahova Valley, the Bucegi Plateau stands as another recommended attraction. It is renowned for its rock formations. Hikers can explore various trails leading to the plateau, including Jepii Mari and Jepii Mici, which vary in difficulty levels.[8]
At the foothills of the Bucegi Mountains stands the Cantacuzino Castle, located on the grounds of an ancient hunting lodge that has persisted since the 18th century, serving as a resting place for the Cantacuzino family during their journeys to Brasov.
Constructed in the Neo-Romanian architectural style, Cantacuzino Castle is an example of Romania's architectural heritage. Its facade showcases carved stone and brick interior cladding.
With a quadrangular design and an open southern side, the castle integrates into the landscape, covering an expanse of 3,148 square meters. The courtyard and gardens span 3.5 hectares, while the entire estate encompasses 970 hectares of forest. Furthermore, recently, the castle appeared as a filming spot for the Wednesday series. In today's time, Cantacuzino Castle is open to visitors and events.[7]
Prahova County showcases a diverse geographical landscape, forming an amphitheater with mountains and hills in the north, while plains dominate the south, encompassing 37.3% of the total county's area.
The altitude spans from the highest point—Omu Peak at 2,505 meters above sea level—to the lowest point where the Prahova River meets the region (70 meters). The northern part of the county is characterized by mountains, and these towering peaks often serve as administrative boundaries with Brasov County. Some of the mountain ranges within Prahova County include the Bucegi Massif, Gârbova Mountains, Grohotisu Mountains, Ciucas Massif, and Tataru Mountains.
The mountainous region is crisscrossed by several valleys, mainly oriented from north to south. Nestled between the mountains and plains, the Subcarpathian hills exhibit elevations ranging from 800 to 900 meters and 200 to 300 meters. The lowest geographical feature is the plains, with elevations typically between 100 and 200 meters, rising to 300 meters or more along the course of the Prahova River in certain areas. The Prahova River serves as the primary river system, covering more than three-quarters of the county's expanse. The county's natural resources encompass oil and natural gas reserves in five oil fields, coal reserves, salt from the Slanic salt massif, and limestone deposits in various locations.[3]
At the heart of Romania, surrounded by urban centers, Bucegi Natural Park stands as a protected area, integrated into the international Natura 2000 network. Alongside its considerable bear population and diverse landscapes, the park features several attractions, including the Sphinx and Babele, geological formations sculpted by wind erosion.
Established by the Romanian government in 2003, Bucegi Natural Park serves as a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of traditional cultural landscapes in order to preserve local habitats. With its biodiversity encompassing both fauna and flora, including rare and endemic species, this protected region has been a point of biological research for several decades.[5]
The considerable difference in elevation across the Prahova County territory, combined with a southern orientation, contributes to a varied climate typical for the local area.[3] The warmest time of the year, on average, in Prahova's capital, Ploiesti, is summer, namely July and August, when the temperatures exceed 29° C. On the other hand, January tends to be the coldest month, with an average temperature resting around 4° C.[9]
Ploiesti, the Capital city of Prahova County, traces its history back to the 16th century under Michael the Brave's rule. The town developed as a trade and craft center in the 17th and 18th centuries, and eventually, its transportation improved in 1864 with a road to Brașov. Further development took place in 1882 with the arrival of the railway, coinciding with the founding of schools and hospitals.
In the mid-19th century, Ploiesti became an oil hub, with the Mehedințeanu brothers opening the world's first large refinery from 1856 to 1857. In general, the city is known for the short-lived 1870 Republic of Ploiesti revolt against the Romanian monarchy.
During WWI, Ploiesti was targeted when the Central Powers invaded in 1916, damaging oil facilities. In WWII, despite Allied bombings, Ploiesti remained crucial for Nazi Germany's oil needs. However, Soviet troops liberated it in August 1944.
Post-war, Romania's Communist regime nationalized the oil industry, investing in reconstruction and modernization to repair war damage and spur growth.[1]
The county of Prahova as a whole has evidence of ancient habitation found in various places, including Ploiesti, Ciorani, Ceptura, Budureasa, Mizil, Tomsani, Gherghita, Tinosu, Vadu Sapat, Drajna, and Slon, among others. These archaeological discoveries highlight the enduring presence of civilization in this region. Notable artifacts include the Golden Beaver of Cotofenesti, dating back to the time of Dromichetes, the treasury from Coada Malului featuring figurative fibulae reminiscent of Burebista's likeness, and a depiction of the Dacians' flag on a fragment of a clay cup from Budureasa.[3] Concerning more recent history, Prahova County was situated in the south-central region of Greater Romania, specifically within the central area of the historical Muntenia region. Its administrative center was Ploiesti.[4]
One of the considerable historical destinations within Prahova borders is Pelisor Castle, which opened to the public in 1993 as a museum. Part of the architectural complex initiated by King Carol I stands beside Peles Castle. Inside, people can observe a blend of "Art 1900" with Romanian styles, incorporating specific elements from the Prahova Valley and Brancove. Queen Maria, who played a significant role in interior decoration, believed in the importance of beauty. Her artistic contributions date back to the years 1902-1903 and 1925-1928.[2]
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