The Vâlsan Valley –A protected area of national interest

Built between 1960 and 1966 for the production of electricity, the Vidraru Dam is the largest arch dam in our country. The Vidraru Dam forms upstream a lake with a length of 14 kilometres and an area of 870 hectares.  The Vidraru Artificial Lake and Dam is a point of great tourist attraction. The clean air, the clear water of a piercing blue, the beauty of nature and the peaceful view define this place as excellent for relaxation.  Various water sports, fishing and boat rides can be practiced on the dam's artificial lake. From the crest of the Vidraru Dam opens an unforgettable sight and over the lake and dam dominates the Iron Man, an imposing statue belonging to the sculptor Constantin Popovici, who depicts the mythological hero Prometheus with the lightning bolts in his hands – the symbol of electricity.

Evoked in the immortal ballad of Master Manole, the Curtea de Argeș Monastery was founded in the time of Neagoe Basarab and was consecrated in 1517. It is one of the most valuable constructions of church art and architecture, being included in the List of historical monuments in Romania. The monastery ensemble comprises the monumental Church "The Assumption of the Mother of God", the Holy Water Font, the Episcopal Palace and a beautiful French-style park of 10 hectares. The church is full of Christian significance. The narthex houses the tombs of the rulers of Wallachia (Neagoe Basarab and Radu from Afumați) and those of the royal couples of Romania – Carol I and Elisabeth, Ferdinand and Mary. From the same monastery ensemble is part the New Archdiocesan and Royal Cathedral, where the reliquary with the relics of Saint Philothea, the spiritual patroness of Argeș and Wallachia, can be found. In the new Royal Necropolis of Curtea de Argeș Romania’s kings and queens were buried: King Michael I and Queen Anne, King Carol II and Queen Helene. [Image] [Image]