Who was Gheorghelaș?
Gheorghelaș was not just a simple outlaw; he was a legendary figure of the early 19th century.
- A Soldier of Fortune: Legend says he was a captain in the army of Tudor Vladimirescu during the 1821 Revolution. After the movement was suppressed, he took to the mountains, becoming a "haiduc" (a Balkan Robin Hood).
- The Protector: For seven years, he ruled these forests, taking from the wealthy boyars and helping the poor locals of the Siriu region.
The mysterious entrance of Gheorghelaș's Cave, hidden in the rocky cliffs near Pruncea Waterfall, Siriu Mountains, Romania.
The cave is the focal point of many local "gold rush" stories.
- The Secret Stash: It is said that Gheorghelaș used this cave to hide the treasures he confiscated. Locals believe that somewhere deep within the rock, or buried near the waterfall's base, a hoard of gold coins still waits to be discovered.
- The Stone Bed: Inside the small cave, there is a flat rock formation that people call "The Outlaw's Bed," where he supposedly rested while keeping watch over the valley.
For the people of Buzău, this cave is a symbol of resistance and the free spirit of the mountains. Every year, local festivals celebrate the memory of the captain who chose the wilderness over submission.
FAQ: The Outlaw’s Cave (Peștera lui Gheorghelaș)
1. Can I actually enter the cave?
The cave is very small and more of a rocky shelter. While you can reach its entrance, the path from the base of the waterfall is steep and can be very slippery. Proper hiking boots and extreme caution are mandatory.
2. Where exactly is it located?
It is located on the left side of the Pruncea (Cașoca) Waterfall, a few meters above the water level.
3. Are there guided tours about the haiducs?
While there are no permanent "museum tours," local guides often include the legend of Gheorghelaș when taking groups through the Siriu Mountains.
