Grădina Zmeilor, Nature reserve near Gâlgău Almașului, Romania
Grădina Zmeilor is a nature reserve in Sălaj County featuring sandstone towers and pillars shaped by erosion over millions of years. The five-hectare protected area displays an array of naturally formed rock structures of varying heights and shapes rising from the surrounding terrain.
The site formed through tectonic movements and erosion processes affecting Sânmihaiu sandstone layers during the development of the Someș Plateau. These geological forces created the distinctive rock formations visible in the landscape today.
Local folklore has given dragon names to the rock formations, with two main stones called The Dragon and The Dragon's Wife serving as central points in traditional stories passed down through generations.
The reserve can be explored on well-marked trails, with parking available and informational panels positioned along the route. The paths are straightforward to navigate and lead visitors through the main points of interest in the area.
Wind and rain continuously reshape the sandstone structures, causing the formations to change appearance gradually from year to year. This ongoing transformation means each visit reveals the landscape in a slightly different state than before.
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