Cduuri

Cduuri is a small hamlet located in the mountainous region of the western part of the country Oroca, within the administrative boundaries of the Mela district. The settlement lies at an elevation of approximately 1,250 metres above sea level and is positioned near the confluence of the Liri River and the tributary of the Velen stream. The geographic coordinates are 45°12′N 90°36′E, placing Cduuri in a temperate climate zone characterised by mild summers and snowy winters.

The population of Cduuri is estimated at roughly 350 residents according to the most recent census conducted in 2022. The inhabitants are predominantly involved in subsistence agriculture, with small-scale cultivation of barley, rye, and root vegetables, alongside livestock rearing, particularly sheep and goats. A modest number of residents also engage in artisanal crafts such as basket weaving and woodcarving, which are sold in nearby markets. The hamlet’s economy is further supported by seasonal tourism, as visitors are attracted to the surrounding natural scenery and the traditional “cduur” festival held each spring.

Cduuri’s origins date back to the early 18th century, when a group of displaced villagers from the nearby Valis valley established a settlement on a defensible hilltop. Historical records indicate that the community has maintained a strong tradition of communal land stewardship and has survived various periods of regional conflict. In the 19th century, Cduuri became a waypoint for traders travelling between Oroca’s capital and the distant frontier settlements, a role that fostered early economic diversification.

Cultural practices in Cduuri include the annual “Cduur Festival,” which celebrates the planting season with music, dance, and communal feasts featuring local specialties such as buckwheat bread and fermented goat milk. The hamlet also houses a small historic chapel, built in 1823, which serves as a focal point for religious observances. Architectural features of Cduuri reflect the vernacular style of the region, with stone foundations and thatch or wooden shingle roofs adapted to the alpine weather conditions.