Jurilovca

Jurilovca (Russian: Журиловка) is a charming village situated on the shores of Lake Razim, in the region of Northern Dobruja. It offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the local fishing community, as well as opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration of the surrounding natural beauty.

The village has a rich history, dating back centuries, with influences from various cultures and civilizations that have left their mark on its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Among these influences, the presence of Russian settlers has significantly contributed to the village's cultural diversity. Russian immigrants have brought their traditions, language, and customs, enriching the cultural tapestry of Jurilovca. Visitors can immerse themselves in this cultural blend by exploring the narrow streets lined with colorful houses and stopping by the local museums and historical sites, where traces of Russian influence can be found alongside other cultural elements.

Despite its small size, Jurilovca boasts a vibrant community and a strong sense of pride in its heritage. Visitors are welcomed warmly and encouraged to engage with locals, whether it's sharing stories over a meal at a traditional restaurant or joining in on one of the village's many festivals and celebrations. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply getting off the beaten path, Jurilovca has something to offer every traveler. Take your time to explore this hidden gem and discover the unique charm and character that make it a truly special destination.

Understand
Jurilovca is a commune in Tulcea County, Northern Dobruja, Romania. It is composed of three villages: Jurilovca, Vișina, and Sălcioara. The commune was founded by Lipovans at the beginning of the 19th century. The first documentary attestation is from 1826. Although it started as a small village, Jurilovca grew rapidly and became an important fishing center in the Danube Delta area by the end of the 19th century. Today, it boasts the largest community of fishermen in Romania and hosts the most modern fish processing factory in the country and Eastern Europe.

The Lipovans who founded Jurilovca were a small Russian community deported here by Peter the Great due to their opposition to the reform that modernized the Russian Orthodox Church. This community celebrates religious holidays according to the Julian calendar, which is offset by 14 days from the Gregorian calendar.

At the 2011 census, 60.7% of the inhabitants were Romanians and 38.8% Russian Lipovans. The Lipovans are Russians by ethnicity and Old Believers Orthodox by confession. This confession is the result of the Nikonite Reform. In 1652, Patriarch Nikon of the Russian Orthodox Church initiated a religious reform aimed at adapting the Russian Church to the rest of the Orthodox Churches. The result was the division of Russian society into Nikonites, who accepted the reform, and Starovers (Old Believers), who did not. The latter, being persecuted, emigrated outside Russia, with some arriving on Romanian territory, north of Moldavia and Dobruja.

Local information

 * Jurilovca village council website

By plane
The closest airport to Jurilovca is Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport (IATA: CNV) near Constanța, located approximately 130 kilometers away. Keep in mind that depending on the season and demand, flight options and prices can vary.

By train
Train travel is a less common way to reach Jurilovca, but it is possible. The nearest train station is in Ceamurlia de Jos, roughly 16 kilometers away. While train travel can be a scenic and budget-friendly option, be sure to research schedules carefully as there may be limited connections.

By bus
Buses are a more reliable option for reaching Jurilovca. Regular bus services operate from various Romanian cities, including Bucharest and Constanța, to Tulcea. Check online platforms or bus station information boards for specific routes and schedules.

By car
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for getting around Romania, including reaching Jurilovca. The main route from Bucharest is via the A2 motorway and then the E87 national road. The total distance is approximately 430 kilometers, and the journey time can vary depending on traffic conditions. Be sure to research road tolls and any necessary permits before driving in Romania.

Get around
Jurilovca is a small commune and can be easily explored on foot or by bike. For a unique experience, you can take a boat from the small harbor and travel to Gura Portitei, a small resort with fine sand beaches and shallow water. This is a great way to see the beautiful surroundings and get a feel for the local way of life. In addition, horse and cart rides are a common mode of transport in rural Romania and can be an interesting way to explore Jurilovca and its surroundings. It's not only a traditional method of transportation, but also a slower pace of travel that allows you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape.

Eat
Jurilovca offers a delightful escape, combining stunning scenery with a vibrant culinary scene centered around the Black Sea's bounty. Explore "Cherhanas," traditional open-air restaurants lining the water's edge, and savor Dobrujan specialties like "Peste la cuptor" (baked fish), "Saramura de crap" (carp stew), or "Midii si scoici" (mussels and clams). Don't miss local wines and side dishes like "mamaliga" (cornmeal porridge) for a complete and unforgettable experience.

Go next
Sarichioi: Explore the village which offers a glimpse into traditional Lipovan village life and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including salt flats and marshes.