Wood charring - Corund - Praid - Authentic traditions!

Charcoal Burning in Kalonda
Charcoal production is a traditional craft, mainly practiced in forested areas. Since the 19th century, it has been an important local industry.

Charcoal burners select a flat clearing in the forest and carefully level the ground. Wood (usually beech or oak) is cut into equal pieces and stacked in an orderly way to form a mound called a charcoal kiln (or “bocsa”). This structure is then covered with leaves and soil, leaving a cavity inside filled with easily flammable materials such as wood chips.

The kiln is ignited from the top and burns slowly for 8–12 days without open flames, producing mainly steam. After the process, the covering is removed and the charcoal is cooled by covering it with charcoal dust. Finally, it is packed into sacks and transported.

In the past, carts loaded with charcoal traveled from village to village, supplying blacksmiths, craftsmen, and households. Today, charcoal is mainly used for industrial purposes.

Corund
The name of Corund is closely associated with traditional folk art, especially pottery.

“Corund” itself has become a well-known brand. In the Szekler region, it is often said that certain traditional dishes—such as stuffed cabbage—are only truly authentic when prepared in Corund pottery.

The main street of the village has turned into a continuous craft market. Unfortunately, authentic folk art is increasingly overshadowed by mass-produced items, so it is recommended to buy from recognized artisans.

Typical Corund motifs include:

birds perched on vines
deer
floral patterns
the tree of life
The traditional color palette features yellowish-brown tones on a white background, though blue-and-white variations have become more popular in recent years.

Another developing craft in the area is the processing of tinder fungus, used to create bags, hats, and decorative items.

Nearby rises Mount Firtos, surrounded by many legends, and the area is also known for its mineral water springs (borviz).

Every year, in early August, the famous Árcso pottery fair takes place, gathering the region’s most renowned craftsmen.

Praid Salt Mine
Important: Due to a mining accident in 2025, this program is currently not available.

Praid is the center of the Salt Region, located at about 500 meters above sea level, at the foot of the Gurghiu Mountains.

The area is famous for its massive underground salt deposits. It is estimated that the salt block extends down to 2,600 meters and contains over 2 billion tons of salt.

In the past, salt was extracted from the surface; later, the mine became an important tourist attraction and treatment center.

Salt Baths in Praid
During the summer season, the outdoor saltwater pool is usually open; however, it is recommended to check the current opening hours before departure.

In 2014, one of the most modern outdoor saltwater bathing complexes in Romania was completed, featuring water circulation and filtration systems.

The highly concentrated saltwater makes swimming difficult, as visitors float effortlessly on the surface, similar to corks.

Due to the high thermal inertia of saltwater, it retains heat even after cooler or rainy days.

These baths have become a popular attraction both for relaxation and therapeutic purposes.

Praid Wellness Center
The Praid Wellness Center offers modern facilities year-round in a beautiful natural environment.

Its main attraction is the mineral-rich therapeutic saltwater sourced from a depth of approximately 1,000 meters, recommended for:

rheumatic conditions
musculoskeletal disorders
neurological issues
gynecological problems
respiratory diseases
Facilities include:

freshwater swimming pool (10x20 m)
children’s pool
jacuzzis
steam baths
Finnish and infrared saunas
fitness room
massage services
summer terrace
Swimming lessons are also available for children (with prior registration).

The indoor area offers a panoramic view of the Salt Region, and the Salt Canyon Nature Reserve is located nearby.

Recommended Route
Odorheiu Secuiesc – Lupeni – Corund – Praid
(approx. 45 km)

 Have a nice trip!