# Cule

Cule (pronounced "koo-leh") refers to the fortified manor houses that dot the picturesque landscape, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Most of them have been nominated in 1991 on tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites and most lie in rural areas, surrounded by farms and a lovely countryside.

## Understand

The Oltenia region, situated in southwestern Romania, is renowned for its captivating landscapes, vibrant folklore, and well-preserved traditions. Cule are fortified country mansions that were built during the medieval and early modern periods. These architectural gems are testament to the wealth and influence of the local nobility, offering insight into the lifestyle and culture of the Oltenian aristocracy.
The history of Cule in Oltenia dates back several centuries. During the medieval era, as conflicts and invasions threatened the region, boyars sought to protect their properties. They constructed fortified manor houses that combined defensive structures with residential areas, creating a safe haven for themselves and their families.
Over time, the defensive features of Cule became less necessary, and they evolved into grandiose residences showcasing the owners' social status and architectural prowess. Many of these magnificent structures were erected between the 16th and 18th centuries.
Cule are characterized by their unique architectural elements, which highlight the cultural and historical context of Oltenia. The structures typically consist of a fortified tower, surrounded by lower wings and defensive walls. The tower, known as "turn," served as the main living quarters and the last line of defense during times of conflict.
The facades of Cule are adorned with ornate decorations, featuring intricate stone carvings, decorative friezes, and decorative motifs. Inside, visitors can admire lavish interiors, including grand halls, spacious rooms, and ceilings.

## Sites
### Oltenia

* 44.44691523.7049311 Cula Barbu Poenaru. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.44962623.4334022 Cula Cernăteștilor. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.37037423.4212693 Cula Izvoranu-Geblescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.72339423.4763154 Cula Crăsnaru. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.10849723.3537275 Cula Cornoiu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.11862523.3143336 Cula Cartianu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.75403823.1738597 Cula Cioabă-Chințescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.76100422.995358 Cula Cuțui. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.858423.01979 Cula Eftimie Nicolăescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.10692523.35596710 Cula Gheorghe Tătărescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.93792722.89966111 Cula Glogoveanu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.7725423.06851212 Cula I.C. Davani. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.66165322.72263913 Cula Tudor Vladimirescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.66327222.72117814 Cula Nistor. (updated Dec 2017)
* 0015 Cula Călățeanu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.76233124.30216216 Cula Galița. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.14120424.36384517 Cula Bujoreanu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.11847524.00299618 Cula Greceanu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.76224.018919 Cula Măciuceni. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.76081923.85856320 Cula Zătreanu. (updated Dec 2017)

### Muntenia

* 44.91547524.83699921 Cula Budișteanu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.14083424.84135422 Cula Drugănescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.96998824.96171723 Cula Racovița. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.87879224.91787424 Cula Sfântul Mina - Orchidan. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.24349224.52978225 Cula Sultănica. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.13870324.54981126 Cula Teodor Brătianu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 45.1732224.91607527 Cula Vlădescu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.44443526.10639628 Cula Vintilă Brătianu. (updated Dec 2017)
* 44.18140125.38210629 Cula lui Costea. (updated Dec 2017)

## See also

* Architecture
* Fortifications
* Painted Monasteries, interesting Christian architecture across the border in Romania
* Vratsa, city located in northwestern Bulgaria, known for its medieval tower houses
* Kratovo, located in North Macedonia, this town's architecture reflects its rich history and cultural heritage, with several well-preserved tower houses that date back to the medieval period.