Summary
Hoia Baciu Forest near Cluj-Napoca has developed a decades-long reputation for unusual phenomena, including unexplained lights, apparitions, voices, feelings of being watched and sudden physical discomfort. Visitors and investigators have also reported electronic disturbances and unusual experiences around the forest's distinctive circular clearing. In 1968, Emil Barnea photographed a disc-shaped object above the trees during a sighting witnessed by several people. Reports span generations, so the witness count given here represents a conservative estimate rather than a documented total.
Additional Notes
Research into the forest's alleged anomalies began in the 1950s with biologist Alexandru Sift, who repeatedly visited the area and photographed unusual lights, shadows and forms. The forest later gained international attention when Emil Barnea and three companions reported seeing a metallic, disc-shaped object on 18 August 1968; Barnea photographed the object several times as it moved above the treetops. One of Hoia Baciu's best-known features is the Poiana Rotundă (“Round Clearing”), an unusually open area surrounded by forest. Visitors have reported anxiety, nausea, headaches, unexplained sounds and the sensation of being watched, while photographs are sometimes claimed to contain lights or figures unnoticed when they were taken. The forest has repeatedly attracted paranormal investigators and television teams. During a 2009 Destination Truth investigation, team member Evan B. reportedly collapsed or was thrown to the ground while cameras were recording; the team later returned for another investigation. Independent investigations have also used EMF meters, thermal cameras, audio recorders and other equipment, producing a variety of reported anomalies that have contributed to the forest's enduring reputation as a paranormal hotspot.
The Location Today
Hoia Baciu Forest remains a woodland area near Cluj-Napoca, known for walking routes and paranormal folklore. Independent operators offer guided day and night walks, although the forest is not a single managed paranormal attraction.
- Environment
- Forest
- Time of Day
- Various, particularly night
- Evidence Level
- Investigated Case
- Visiting the Location
- Guided, Limited
- Ownership of the Location
- Unknown