Dolj

The Craiova Botanical Garden

founded in 1951, the botanical garden covers an area of over 8 hectares and features a variety of plant species from all over the world. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

The Oltenia Philharmonic

located in Craiova, the philharmonic is one of the oldest musical institutions in Romania, founded in 1904. The philharmonic hosts regular classical music concerts and performances.

WELCOME To Dolj

Province Overview

Main city

Craiova

AREA

7,414 km²

POPULATION

660,000

Main language

Romanian

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Craiova Art Museum

The Craiova Art Museum is located in Craiova, Romania, and houses an impressive collection of Romanian and European art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative art objects. Established in 1951, the museum features works by renowned artists such as Brancusi, Grigorescu, and Luchian, among others, and hosts various temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Nicolae Romanescu Park

Nicolae Romanescu Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Craiova, Romania. It covers an area of over 90 hectares and features a lake, numerous walking paths, and various recreational areas. The park is home to many species of plants and animals, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

Cernica Monastery

Cernica Monastery is a Romanian Orthodox monastery located in the town of Cernica, near Bucharest. Founded in the 17th century, it is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful surroundings, and rich history. The monastery features a museum, a library, and a series of stunning frescoes and murals that depict biblical scenes.

Political

Economy and Government

Dolj is a county located in southwestern Romania. Its economy is primarily based on agriculture, industry, and services. The county has a diversified agriculture, with crops such as wheat, corn, sunflower, soybeans, and vegetables being cultivated. Animal husbandry is also an important sector, with cattle, pigs, sheep, and poultry being raised.

The industry in Dolj is dominated by the automotive and machinery sectors. The county has a significant number of automotive and component manufacturers, including Ford, Continental, and Delphi. The machinery sector includes companies that produce agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and machine tools.

In terms of services, the county has a developing tourism industry, with attractions such as the Craiova Botanical Garden and the Nicolae Romanescu Park. Additionally, Dolj is home to the University of Craiova, which contributes to the education and research sectors.

The government of Dolj is headed by a president and a county council, which is made up of elected representatives. The county council is responsible for overseeing local government functions, such as public services, transportation, and infrastructure. The county is also divided into municipalities and communes, each of which has its own mayor and council responsible for local governance.

Overall, the economy of Dolj is diversified and relies on a mix of agriculture, industry, and services, with the government overseeing local governance and administration.

History

History and Culture

Dolj is a county located in the south-western part of Romania, and it has a rich history and culture dating back thousands of years.

Historically, Dolj was part of the ancient province of Dacia, which was conquered by the Romans in 106 AD. The Roman Empire had a significant influence on the region's development, and many ancient ruins and artifacts can still be found in the county.

During the Middle Ages, Dolj was part of the Romanian principalities of Wallachia and Oltenia. It played an essential role in the fight against the Ottoman Empire, and many battles were fought on its territory. The county was also home to several important figures in Romanian history, including the 16th-century prince Michael the Brave, who managed to unite the three Romanian principalities for a brief period.

In terms of culture, Dolj is known for its traditional folklore, including music, dance, and costumes. The region has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and papanasi (a type of dessert) being popular throughout Romania.

The city of Craiova, which is the county seat of Dolj, is also a significant cultural center, with many museums, theaters, and art galleries. It is home to the Oltenia Philharmonic Orchestra and hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Craiova International Theater Festival.

Overall, Dolj is a region with a rich history and cultural heritage, which continues to be celebrated and preserved to this day.

HOTELS

Hotel Rexton

Located in the city of Craiova, Hotel Rexton is a modern, stylish hotel offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a fitness center, and a sauna.

Hotel Royal Plaza

Situated in the heart of Craiova, Hotel Royal Plaza offers elegant rooms, a restaurant serving traditional Romanian dishes, a bar, and a terrace. The hotel also has a spa center with a sauna and a hot tub.

Hotel Helin Central

Located in the city of Calafat, Hotel Helin Central offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving Romanian and international cuisine, a bar, and a terrace. The hotel is situated near the Danube River and is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.

RESTAURANTS

Casa Vlasia

This is a traditional Romanian restaurant located in Craiova, Dolj. It offers a variety of dishes that are made with locally sourced ingredients, such as grilled meats, stews, and soups. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic, with wooden tables and a fireplace.

Restaurant Pescarus

This is a seafood restaurant located in the city of Calafat, Dolj. It offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish, calamari, and seafood soups. The restaurant has a modern and elegant atmosphere, with comfortable seating and a beautiful view of the Danube River.

La Scoica

This is a Romanian and Balkan restaurant located in the city of Craiova, Dolj. It offers a variety of traditional dishes from the region, including grilled meats, stews, and soups. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with wooden tables and a fireplace, and it's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.