The Morii Canal in Cluj-Napoca isn't just a tributary of the Someșul Mic River; it's a living archive of the city's past and ongoing transformation. Extending for 7.2 km, this artificial canal starts from the western edge of the city, serving as a flowing memoir of Cluj-Napoca's urban and industrial growth. Its story begins in 1558, when the city council envisioned it as a way to sanitize the Someș River. The old dam near Mănăștur stands testament to this age when water wheels of flour mills turned ceaselessly along the canal banks. However, the construction of a taller dam in the 1970s dried up the canal's flow, silencing the mills forever.
Yet, even as it has ebbed, the canal has been a stage for urban narratives, be it the disappearing rodents or the arrival of wild ducks that delight local children. In recent years, there's been a decline in the ecosystem, with the city's development encroaching on natural habitats. The concrete parapets and the covered sections tell another tale—one of changing aesthetics and perhaps a loss of old-world craftsmanship. Despite its many transitions, the Morii Canal continues to be a symbol of the city's complex relationship with its geography, history, and urbanization.
Imagine a half-day walk through Cluj, the Transylvanian capital, where history meets modernity. You could start your journey at the house of a famous Hungarian king, absorbing the stories embedded in the aged bricks and mortar. Continue to the city's oldest church, a sanctuary of architectural and spiritual grace. Next, ascend the most picturesque tower for a panoramic view of Cluj, offering a bird's-eye glimpse of the cityscape below.
As you stroll, consider the diverse architecture—Secessionist or Art Nouveau—that defines the city's visual personality. Feel the pulse of local life at the central collective farm market, where you can revel in the aroma and flavours of fresh produce and traditional foods. Follow the charming canals and streams that lace through the city, finally relaxing in the shade of the urban park, a haven amid bustling life.
To cap off your journey, indulge in a meal at a local restaurant, like Maimuța Plângătoare, renowned for its soups and local brews. The atmosphere inside and in its cosy courtyard will make you feel like you've discovered Cluj's heart.
