Its name is derived from a Slavic word, ruda, meaning "iron ore", originally being known as Rudna in 14th century documents.[2]
Geography
The commune is located in the northeastern part of Bistrița-Năsăud County, 50 km (31 mi) from the county seat, Bistrița, on the border with Maramureș County. It is situated at an altitude of 584 m (1,916 ft), on the southern slopes of the Rodna Mountains. The Rodna Mountains National Park is partly located on the administrative territory of the commune.
The Someșul Mare River, which has its source in the Rodna Mountains, flows east to west through Rodna village. The river Pârâul Băilor flows north to south through Valea Vinului village, discharging into the Someșul Mare in the center of Rodna village, near the ruins of the old tower.
In 1950, the commune became part of Rodna Region [ro], while in 1952 it fell in the Năsăud raion of Cluj Region. In 1968, a new administrative law was adopted, and Rodna became part of Bistrița-Năsăud County.