Iharas

Iharas is a commune situated in Buzău County, within the historical region of Moldavia in southeastern Romania. It lies in the northwestern part of the county at an elevation of about 200 to 300 metres above sea level. The commune is part of the Buzău plain and is drained by small valleys that feed into the Buzău River basin.

Administratively, Iharas is composed of six villages: Iharas, Dărmănești, Glod, Iașița, Silai, and Ștefănești. The village of Iharas serves as the administrative centre. The local governance is headed by a mayor, elected under the Romanian municipal system, and a local council elected by residents. The area covers approximately 35 square kilometres.

According to the 2011 census, the population of the commune was 2,210, with a density of roughly 63 inhabitants per square kilometre. The demographic structure is predominantly Romanian, with Roman Catholic and Greek Catholic communities also represented. The population has shown a slight decline since the early 1990s, a trend common to many rural areas in the region.

The local economy is largely agricultural, focusing on dry-grain cultivation, viticulture, and livestock breeding. Small craft enterprises and local markets provide supplementary income. Recent development initiatives have encouraged sustainable farming practices and the promotion of agro-tourism. Public services include a primary school, a health clinic, and a community centre, all of which serve both the village and surrounding areas.

Iharas is known for its 18th‑century wooden church, St. George Orthodox Church, which is a notable monument for its preserved frescoes and traditional architectural style. The commune also hosts an annual harvest festival that attracts visitors from neighboring districts, showcasing regional folklore, music, and culinary traditions.