Ocnele Mari spa resort is located in Oltenia Region, 15 kilometers from Ramnicu-Valcea and 8 km from Govora. Actually, Ocnele Mari is the oldest town in the Valcea County, with its ancient Dacian Buridava citadel, built by the Burs (old Dacian tribe, also known as the Buri), most of them working in the salt mines. Later, Ocnele Mari became a vital economic center for the Roman Empire; the salt extracted here were transported to the Olt River and then carried on rafts to supply the different regions of the Empire. The settlement was first mentioned in an official document in 1402, but it seems that was inhabited even long before that date.
The first steps in setting up a curative spa have been made since 1912 and eventually was declared a health resort. The main natural factor that attracts tourists in this area is the salt water, which has beneficial effects for the organism. Due to the curative effects of the salt water and vegetable slime, Ocnele was a much desired resort sought over the years, thus the authorities are trying their best to transform it from a local interest settlement in one of national interest.
After a six months development program, new galleries were opened for the public. Its area has doubled and the recreational spaces were modernized. The largest saline park in Romania comprises a church (the largest underground church in Romania), a museum, a restaurant, souvenir shops, football, basketball and tennis fields, a pool table, a pool and a children’s playground.
Visiting hours: Monday – Thursday – 10.00 – 15.00 (last entry at 14:00)
Friday – Sunday: 10.00 – 17.00 (last entry at 16:00)