Maramureș has recently captured international attention after becoming the subject of a major documentary project produced by the Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT), Greece’s National Television. On 29 December 2025, a Greek film crew concluded ten days of intensive filming, during which they documented the region’s authentic winter traditions, vibrant communities, cultural heritage, and unique holiday customs.
The initiative belongs to the creators of the internationally acclaimed documentary series “Balkan Express,” who chose to dedicate two special episodes exclusively to Maramureș this year. The production was carried out in close collaboration with the Maramureș County Council, and included over 30 cultural sites, events, communities, and key figures representing the soul of the region.
Two Episodes Dedicated to the Spirit of Maramureș
The first episode focuses on Baia Mare and surrounding localities, highlighting children’s caroling in Satu de pe Deal, traditional customs from the four ethnographic areas of Maramureș, and the 17th edition of “Crăciun în Maramureș.” It also includes an exclusive interview with legendary Romanian caroler Ștefan Hrușcă at the Village Museum. Baia Mare is further presented through its history, emblematic buildings and gastronomic initiatives promoting local products.
The crew also explored Țara Lăpușului, documenting traditional costume preparations, the role of the church in community life, UNESCO heritage sites, Christmas culinary traditions, local artisans from Rogoz, traditional ceramics from Cărbunari, and the symbolic Ignat custom in Copalnic Mănăștur.
Festivals, Faith, Heritage and Winter Wonders
The documentary also features:
• the Breb Carol Festival
• Noaptea Viflaiemurilor in Vișeu de Sus
• Christmas services in the wooden churches of Ieud
• the iconic Mocănița steam train
• the 57th Marmația Festival of Winter Traditions
• the Merry Cemetery of Săpânța
• and the opening of the winter season in Borșa.
A dedicated segment highlights the multicultural identity of Maramureș, including Hungarian, Ukrainian and German communities.
Strong Appreciation from Local Authorities
Although filming exceeded 12 hours daily, the team concluded that even ten days were not enough to capture everything Maramureș has to offer. Maramureș County Council President Gabriel Zetea praised the collaboration and emphasized the value of this international promotion effort:
“Maramureș represents, for us, the essence of authentic hospitality. Here we discovered a profound connection to tradition, family, and true community values—an experience rarely encountered. The warmth, authenticity and respect for heritage shown by the people of Maramureș are truly remarkable. We are proud that this region will be promoted internationally through these documentary productions.”
International Promotion Success
The success of this initiative was made possible thanks to the support of local communities and cultural partners who welcomed the production team and contributed to showcasing Maramureș on the global cultural map.
