It is impossible not to be impressed by this region distinguished by its bygone pastoral traditions. In the northwest of Romania, Maramures offers a splendid landscape of untamed forest and hillsides tilled by man, rich architectural heritage (notably wood churches, some of which are Unesco sites) and colourful folklore. Today, Baia Mare (which grew on account of its mining activity) has supplanted Sighetu Marmatiei, the historic capital of Maramures