Săpânța, Romania: Village of the Merry Cemetery

#hellohalloween #sapanta Nestled in the lush Maramureș region of northern Romania, near the Ukrainian border, Săpânța is a quaint commune of about 3,031 souls (2021 census). Famous worldwide for its "Merry Cemetery" (Cimitirul Vesel), this hidden gem defies somber funeral traditions with vibrant, hand-carved wooden crosses painted in vivid blues, reds, and yellows. Local artisan Stan Ioan Pătraș began the custom in 1935, etching humorous epitaphs that cheekily recount the deceased's life—flaws, follies, and all. Over 800 crosses now color the hillside, turning death into a celebration of life's quirks, rooted in ancient Dacian folklore. Beyond the cemetery—one of Romania's Seven Wonders—explore the Memorial House of Pătraș, preserving his workshop and tools. Hike to the Sapanta-Peri Monastery, a serene hilltop haven with panoramic views, or the Greek Catholic Church. Nearby, the "natural washing machine" (Valtori) uses river currents to clean woolen blankets, a nod to Maramureș ingenuity. Traditional gates, woven rugs, and horse-drawn carts evoke timeless rural charm. Săpânța reminds us: life—and death—should be lived with a wink.