Șomcuta Mare

Șomcuta Mare (Hungarian: Nagysomkút; German: Großhorn) is a town in Maramureş County, Romania. The town administers seven villages: Buciumi (Törökfalu), Buteasa (Bucsonfalva), Ciolt (Csolt), Codru Butesii (Kodrulytelep), Finteușu Mare (Nagyfentős), Hovrila (Hávord) and Vălenii Șomcutei (Somkútpataka). It was declared a town in 2004.

History

The exact founding date of Șomcuta Mare is unknown; however, it is first mentioned in 1319 as part of "Cetatea de piatră" (Stone Fortress) realm. In the 14th century, the locality, along with the "Chioar Domain" enters the possession of Romanian voivods (rulers) of Maramures. As of 1566, the "Chioar Domain" is divided in 12 voivodeships, of which those led by voivod Dan Butean are administrated from Șomcuta Mare, covering 14 villages. In the year of 1599 Șomcuta Mare along with the remaining "Chioar Domain" is transferred to the rule of Mihai Viteazul.

In 1713 "Cetatea de piatră" is destroyed. Later, in 1738, the "Chioar Domain" is transformed into a "Tinut" (Land of), leading to an increased administrative importance of Șomcuta Mare. With the help of Gheorghe Șincai a school is founded in the year of 1784; a primary school is opened between 1835-1838 and girl school between 1867-1889.