- published: 16 Feb 2016
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Coordinates: 47°11′N 23°3′E / 47.183°N 23.05°E / 47.183; 23.05
Zalău (Romanian pronunciation: [zaˈləw]; German: Zillenmarkt or Waltenberg, Hungarian: Zilah) is the seat of Sălaj County, Transylvania, Romania. In 2004, its estimated population was 62,900.
Zalău is situated in the area inhabited by "Free Dacians", 8 km (5.0 mi) away from the historical landmark of Porolissum, a well-preserved Roman Castrum with an imposing fortress, an amphitheater, temples, houses and a customs house in the ancient Roman province of Dacia. Zalău was the crossing point between Central Europe and Transylvania, along the so-called "Salt Route".
Archaeological discoveries revealed evidence of human existence in this area since the Neolithic, approx. 6500 years ago. Dacian coins found in archaeological perimeters of the city central area and on the Valea Mâții, west of the city, plus important items belonging to Roman culture, are evidence of free Dacian continuity in this area and of developing economic relations with the Roman ancient city of Porolissum.