The entrance to the castle sits atop a large, stone staircase. Autumn is arguably the best time to visit, when the fall foliage decorates the landscape and the Carpathian Mountains aren’t yet covered in snow. An Inside Look at Dracula’s Bran Castle in Romania. Inside ghostly Bran Castle where guests can explore secrets behind 40,000 murders. King Ferdinand’s collected daggers are on display in Bran Castle. Source: Susan Sims, Connected to the King’s bedroom, the living and dining area centers around a hand painted hearth. It is known that Vlad Tepes had passed through the valley, which surrounds Bran Castle, multiple times during his life. Secret Transylvania, Cisnadioara Picture: Inside Bran Castle - Check out Tripadvisor members' 583 candid photos and videos of Secret Transylvania His apartment also features a dining room, working area and royal treasures. Among the 57 rooms inside, there was a stone secret passage that was so narrow you could only travel through it in a single file. Bran Castle “The castle is on the very edge of a terrible precipice,” wrote Bram Stoker—as solicitor Jonathan Harker—in his legendary 1897 novel, Dracula. Bran Castle, which was once an occasional home for Vlad III, was built in the 14th century by Romanians as a fortress to protect against the invading Ottoman Turks. Destinations That Should Be on Your Radar in 2021, How to Pick the Perfect Caribbean All-Inclusive Resort: What to Ask Yourself and the Hotel. However, in her later writings, she claimed that the Bahá’í Faith was a true path. Inside, the castle is filled with huge customized stoves to keep its residents warm and doors that still retain their original stone work. Appropriately, his nickname Vlad the Impaler is said to depict his preferred method for killing foes. We invite you to experience the history, the myth, the intrigue and the magic of this wonderful place of Transylvania, the Bran Castle...commonly known as Dracula's Castle We invite you to experience the history, the myth, the intrigue and the magic of this wonderful place of Transylvania, the Bran Castle...commonly known as Dracula's Castle Look Inside Bran Castle, the Real-Life “Dracula’s Castle” | Teen Vogue. From a fortress to a castle to a royal residence and a communist holding, Bran Castle has remained a towering example of Romanian fortitude and heritage, bringing in 500,000 visitors a year. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund. Published August 20, 2013 at × in Romania IV: from Dracula castle in Bran to night walk in Bucharest ← Previous Next → Exposition inside Bran castle. The country is also brimming with friendly locals, medieval towns, and other gorgeous castles. Bran Castle in Bran, at Transylvania Region of Romania, was widely thought of as the castle of Count Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel, Dracula. Instead, he modeled Dracula’s castle after the information he’d read about Romanian castles as well as the blood-sucking vampires and evil spirits in Romanian folklore. Inside Bran Castle in Transylvania. Building off of the legend of Vlad Ţepeş and his status as a national hero, one can find vampire mugs, shirts and posters. 7 Reasons Why Budapest Is Better in the Winter, 8 Fun Hotels for the Cheesiest Valentine’s Day Getaway EVER, 8 Underrated U.S. A black building with a moss-covered peaked roof, Queen Marie enjoyed her daily tea in this location, nestled among the many trees and shrubs she had planted. Upon entering the building, the images I had seen of the castle during my research played through my mind as if on a movie reel. INSIDE DRACULA'S CASTLE in Transylvania, Romania This is Bran Castle. Source: Susan Sims, Costumes from King Ferdinand and Queen Marie are on display, along with suits of armor, ancient weapons and heraldic banners from the nearby cities and communes. We go inside the inspiration for Bram Stoker's "Dracula", which more than anything is a symbol of Romanian resilience. Source: The citizens of Brasov gifted the castle to Queen Marie, wife of Ferdinand, who stuffed the sweeping halls and grand rooms with artwork, finely sculpted cabinetry and updated hearths. • The property has a spooky and mysterious feel to it. 28-gen-2012 - Questo Pin è stato scoperto da Dhiraj (Patience). Scopri (e salva) i tuoi Pin su Pinterest. Take a look inside “Dracula’s Castle,” also known as Bran Castle, located just outside Brasov in Romania. Take a photo tour inside Romania's Bran Castle, nicknamed “Dracula’s Castle,” in Transylvania, which is now on the market. DRACULA BRAN CASTLE | ROXANA. Source: Susan Sims, Constructed in a strategic location, the castle has purview over the mountains, town and countryside. Popularly—if inaccurately—identified with the fictional Castle Dracula, Bran Castle is one of Romania’s top tourist attractions. Or, visit Brasov, the second largest city in the country, for its sweeping views from the top of Mount Tampa and more than 500-year-old gothic-style Black Church. The property, which is well-known as Dracula's Castle, is widely believed to have inspired Bram Stoker's famous novel. Bran Castle was completed by 1382, in record time, and was built for the purpose of defending Transylvania’s border and included a customs station. During the Second World War, Ileana turned the grounds of the castle into a hospital to care for the wounded and sick. Similarly, his infamous character is believed to have been modeled after the actual prince of Wallachia, Vlad III (or Vlad Tepes in Romania). Large, metal door knobs clang and the old, dark wood floors creak, while being bathed in the light of Romanian lanterns and candelabras. Their high altitudes and mesmerizing scenery of rolling hills and stunning lakes make both roads worth braving. Sophie Foster Lifestyle & Travel Reporter. Toss in a vampire legend, and the rest is history. All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. The dark Castle of Count Dracula Brasov, Romania - Buy this stock photo and explore similar images at Adobe Stock 4928 x 3280 jpeg 1682kB. Outside of Bran Castle sits a dark stone cross with runic writing. Stoker, however, was careful to never state that his character was connected to a real, historical figure. A combination of medieval strategy, local construction and creative ingenuity has blended to create an icon of Romanian culture: strong, resilient and proud. Dubbed “Dracula’s Castle,” it is a striking destination and provides visitors with a fantastic glimpse into the past: And if you liked this post, be sure to check out these popular posts: If you liked this look inside Bran Castle, check out our posts on Neuschwanstein Castle and the story of Vlad the Impaler, history's real Dracula. Bran Castle (Romanian: Castelul Bran; German: Schloss Bran; Hungarian: Törcsvári kastély) is a castle in Bran, 25 kilometres (16 mi) southwest of Brașov.It is a national monument and landmark in Romania.The fortress is on the Transylvanian side of the historical border with Wallachia, on road DN73.. However, the castle in his "Dracula" is best depicted by Bran Castle, which leads people to believe that they’re one in the same. Neither do we. There is no definitive evidence that suggests Vlad even stayed at Bran Castle during his travels. Source: Susan Sims, A luscious courtyard graces the center of the castle, a common feature of edifications of the time. Source: No trip up the mountain is complete without grabbing a kürtőskalács, a sweet, yeast dough treat that is spun around a cone, rolled in sugar and baked over coals. Google Tag Manager Jan 12, 5:32 PM EST www.ibtimes.com 'Dracula’s Castle' For Sale In Transylvania: Tour Inside Bran Castle In Romania [PHOTOS] 3292 x 2289 jpeg 708kB . Source: Susan Sims, The round tower of Bran Castle can be seen from the loggia with the lush Carpathians providing an ideal backdrop. When not decorating, Marie filled the imposing halls with kindness and laughter until her death in 1938. Since being restored in the late 1980s and becoming a museum that celebrates Romanian folklore, Bran Castle has been filled with unique art and furniture that once belonged to Queen Marie of Romania as well as medieval torture weapons. The castle depicted in the Dracula novel matches some parts of Bran Castle – but as Dracula is a fictional vampire, so it’s his castle. So whether you’re a history buff, castle enthusiast, or simply a tourist looking to see something unique, Bran Castle makes for a fascinating visit for all ages and interests. Interestingly enough, Stoker never visited the castle, let alone Romania. Source: Given the popularity of vampire movies, books and bands, it’s no wonder that the village below Bran Castle take the opportunity to sell vampire related items. A glimpse inside Bran Castle Photo source: https://www.roportal.ro Bran Castle is mostly attracting tourists from far and wide due to the famous vampire story of Bram Stoker. Near the village of Bran and close to the city of Brasov, the fortress commands attention as it rises over the Bran Gorge, a historically strategic pass through the Carpathians. As of 2009, it is rumored to be for sale. bran-castle_ova2011-bran-castle - … If the rooms weren’t so frightening, guests might notice the stunning view of the hamlet surrounding the castle. Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle) can be crowded, so we recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot. He spent most of his time between Bran Castle and Peles Castle. What Stephen Hawking Thinks Threatens Humankind The Most, 27 Raw Images Of When Punk Ruled New York, Join The All That's Interesting Weekly Dispatch, the story of Vlad the Impaler, history's real Dracula. Source: Susan Sims, King Ferdinand and Queen Marie had eight children, some of whom lived in the castle, including Princess Ileana. Dracula's Castle Walk - through 2017 in Bran Transylvania Romania.Dracula is an 1897 Gothic horror novel by Irish author Bram Stoker. Download all free or royalty-free photos and vectors. Your Bran Castle Inside stock images are ready. In 1438–1442, the castle was used in defense against the Ottoman Empire, and later became a customs post on the mountain pass between Transylvania and Wallachia. Source: Susan Sims. Bran, the surrounding commune is actually comprised of five small villages, Bran, Poarta, Predluţ Şimon and Sohodol. To enter, visit the Bran Castle listing and tell Stoker in no more than 550 characters what would you say to Count Dracula if you were to meet him in his castle. 2816 x 2112 jpeg 2988kB. The best part? Source: Susan Sims, The wooden framed window looks into a sitting area from a loggia used as a dining room in the summer. Located on the border of Transylvania and Wallachia in Romania is the impressive Bran Castle. We head to Bran Castle, aka Dracula's castle for a special access night shoot in Transylvania, Romania for a once in a life time video! Still, while history tells us that he could be shockingly cruel as a ruler, he was certainly not a blood-drinking vampire. The castle belonged to the Hungarian kings but due to failure to pay on a loan, it was repossessed by the city of Brasov in 1533. Source: Susan Sims, Bran Castle also features a small torture museum in a private area on the second floor that coils up into smaller rooms and a private balcony. www.greatdays.co.uk. When finished, it can also be rolled in cocoa, nuts or cinnamon. • It's … Leave a Reply Cancel reply. Explore Bran Castle and discover the history of Dracula and the serial killers who inspired Stoker — from a Prince who killed 40,000 to a Countess who ate her victim's flesh . Source: Susan Sims, Throughout the spacious castle, hand carved and intricate fixtures adorn the walls and ceilings. Situated in Transylvania, the property draws over half a million travelers each year, and is the number one (and perhaps only, save for the restaurants and markets doling out local meats, cheeses, and mulled wine) tourist destination in the village of Bran. King Ferdinand became ruler of Romania on October 10, 1914 and ruled until his death in 1927. Photography By Bran Castle Plus, its home to two of the most spectacular (and dangerous) roads in the world, Transalpina and Transfagarasan (both cut through the Transylvanian Alps). Source: Susan Sims, The torture museum displays an iron maiden, a chair of torture and the rack, among others. Inner yard in a summer rainy day. She amassed many sets of china, statues, icons and books. Bran Castle was first documented in 1377 when Louis I of Hungary gave the Saxons of Brasov (known as Kronstadt in German) the right to build the citadel. Post a comment or leave a trackback: Trackback URL. Located on the border of Transylvania and Wallachia in Romania is the impressive Bran Castle. In 1920, this cavernous safehold became a royal residence for the Kingdom of Romania. Source: King Ferdinand’s room displays ornate furniture and beautiful views of the commune below. Casa din Bran is just a five minute walk from the castle, and its Inn Center terrace is open to fresh mountain air and beautiful views. 14:41, 24 FEB 2020; Travel. Website. While there, visit Romania’s capital, Bucharest, which is home to one of the world’s largest parliament buildings, exciting nightlife, hidden churches, and tasty food. The INSIDER Summary: • Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's Castle, is built atop a cliff in Romania. It was positioned on top of a cliff, so that one could keep watch for approaching enemies along the crucial highway that lay below (the highway connected Transylvania to southern Romania). Queen Marie joined the Romanian Orthodox Church in 1926 converting from Anglicanism, citing her desire to be closer to her people. The first known fortress near Bran Pass (now called Rucăr-Bran Pass), a trade route across the Carpathian Mountains , was erected after 1211 by … roxanaelenaf.wordpress.com. A short drive away are the hotel’s Inn Nature villas, which offer a gym, sauna and tennis courts, mountainous views and excellent access to Bran’s ski slopes. The prince of Wallachia also went by the names Vlad the Impaler and Vlad Dracula and was well known for fending off the Ottoman Turks. The village even has a vampire themed haunted house attraction. The castle was used as a defensive post against the Ottoman incursion that lasted from 1438 to 1442. Share ; Comments; By. This secret passage connects the first and third floors of the fortification and was first “discovered” in 1927 during renovations. Beyond the castle, Romania — much like its neighboring, often-overlooked countries like Bulgaria and Serbia — has plenty to do and see, making it one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. The twisted, open passageways snake around the central patio. Source: Vlad Ţepeş, a Wallachian ruler famous for his use of impalement against his enemies, was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds -- and meandered my way through the castle's 57 rooms -- I felt something eerie blanket my skin. If you buy something through our links, Oyster may earn an affiliate commission. Inside 'Dracula's Castle', the Romanian fortress which sparked a very bloody legend. There’s something spooky about Bran Castle, a gothic fortress built atop a cliff in Romania. Communism fell in 1989 but the castle wouldn’t be returned to the royal family until 2005. Royal crown and scepter displayed inside Bran Castle. There’s something spooky about Bran Castle, a gothic fortress built atop a cliff in Romania. Queen Marie, the last queen consort of Romania, was quite fond of Bran Castle … Source: Susan Sims. See all 434 Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle) tickets and tours on Tripadvisor Both cities are a short car ride (Brasov is about a half-hour away, while Bucharest is under three hours) from Bran Castle. Near the village of Bran and close to the city of Brasov, the fortress commands attention as it rises over the Bran Gorge, a historically strategic pass through the Carpathians. Source: The castle was later seized by the communist regime in 1948 and the royals were expulsed. Inside Bran castle, home of Dracula, Brasov, Transylvania The medieval Bran Castle, which was once besieged by Vlad the Impaler, is a popular tourist destination, partly because it resembles the home of Dracula in Bram Stoke s famous novel. Another secret tunnel links the fountain in the interior garden to the castle. Source: Your curiosity knows no bounds. Source: Susan Sims, Queen Marie’s apartment was composed of a bedroom, bathroom, dining area, a hall, a dressing room and two salons. Romanian pottery and painting is highly valued as a part of its cultural identity. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: Email (Address never made public) Name. dailystar. 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