Explore the largest Bronze Age fortification in Europe and its astronomical implications (1-day trip)

CorneÈ™ti-Iarcuri is a site just 25 km north of Timisoara. It is the place where 3,200 years ago the people of the Bronze Age built the largest fortification in Europe. It was during the same time as the fall of Mycenaean Greece, the great Tollense battle between local and invading tribes, Ramsess’ battle against the Hittites, Sea People’s incursions in the Mediterranean, and the fall of Troy. It was the start of the Bronze Age collapse. So why would we find this large enclosure spanning 1,600 hectares here? Join us as we explore this huge place best seen from the air, just as the Nazca geoglyphs are best observed from above. In fact, when flying into Timisoara, you probably flew over it.

The size of the so-called fortification is unimaginable and the best times to visit it are in Winter or Summer when the ground is dry. If weather permits the winter solstice sunrise can be witnessed from the location of the ancient observatory.

West Gate of Cornesti-Iarcuri. Photo by Marc Frincu.
The size of this huge enclosure comprised of 4 defensive rings is unimaginable. In this image, you can a group of tourists and participants in one of our conferences exploring the West Gate (the group in the background is standing right where the gate was supposed to be 1400 years ago.
Marc - Winter solstice 2019 from behind the Tarcu Mountains.
The winter solstice sunrise behind the Tarcu Mountains. These are located about 100km from Cornesti-Iarcuri and the site aligns with the peaks at sunrise during this period of the year.

On this day trip, you will explore the site on foot, enter through its mighty gates and discover its astronomical alignments as explained by Marc. Prices range from 15 EUR to 60 EUR per person depending on group size (up to 6 persons) and transportation mode (bus/private car) and include transportation and a professional tour guide. If you feel adventurous you can even fly over the site to explore its huge enclosure from the air at an additional price depending on the flight duration and availability. Contact us for details on upcoming trips there!

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