Transylvania, a region steeped in history and folklore, is known for some of the most stunning castles in Europe. Each castle has its unique story, architectural style, and charm, making them a perfect balance for history buffs and adventurers alike. Here’s a guide to the top five castles you shouldn’t miss on your journey through this enchanting region.
Explore Transylvania's top five unique castles, each with its own story, style, and charm, perfect for history buffs and adventurers.
🏰 Discover with us: 📍1. Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle)
1. Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle)
Built in the 14th century, Bran Castle was originally constructed to defend against invading forces. Its Gothic architecture associated with the Dracula legend make it a fascinating stop offering insight into Romania's medieval past.
Curiosities:
- Often referred to as "Dracula's Castle," that is linked to the infamous Vlad the Impaler, though there’s little evidence that he ever lived here, the legend remains over time.
- The castle features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with narrow staircases and hidden passageways.
How to Get There:
- Location: About 30 km from Brașov.
- Getting There: You can take a bus from Brașov, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, guided tours often include transportation.
2. Corvin Castle (Hunyadi Castle)
Constructed in the 15th century, this impressive Gothic-Renaissance castle is a prime example of historical architecture and served as a royal residence and military stronghold in Romania's past, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Curiosities:
- This stunning Gothic-Renaissance castle is one of the largest in Europe and was the inspiration for many legends and tales that you would hear in our walking tours.
- Legend has it that Vlad the Impaler was imprisoned here for a time! Do you want to know why?
How to Get There:
- Location: Located in Hunedoara, about 150 km from Sibiu.
- Getting There: A train or bus from Sibiu to Hunedoara is a scenic way to reach the castle, taking around 2 hours.
3. Peles Castle
Built between 1873 and 1914 and located in Sinaia, Wallachia, this Castle is a masterpiece of German Neo-Renaissance architecture, showcasing ornate interiors and beautiful gardens. This castle features over 160 rooms, each decorated in a different style and filled with exquisite art and furniture.
Curiosities:
- Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, this castle was the summer residence of the Romanian royal family and is a masterpiece of architecture.
- It was the first castle in Europe fully illuminated by electric lighting.
How to Get There:
- Location: Near Sinaia, just 50 km from Braşov.
- Getting There: Take a train to Sinaia, which takes about 1 hour from Brașov. The castle is a short walk from the train station.
4. Râșnov Fortress
Established in the 13th century, this castle was built by the Teutonic Knights perched on a hilltop, Râșnov Fortress offers stunning panoramic views and a fascinating history as a refuge for locals in medieval times.
Curiosities:
- Originally a refuge for the local population, Rasnov Fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- The fortress has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Romania.
How to Get There:
- Location: Approximately 15 km from Brașov.
- Getting There: You can take a bus or a taxi from Brașov, or even hike the scenic trails up to the fortress.
5. Făgăraș Fortress
Built in the 14th century, this castle was constructed for defense and royal residence, blending Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles over the centuries.
Curiosities:
- This impressive construction of the fortress started in 1310, on the site of a wooden fortification and has seen many battles throughout its history.
- Its architecture combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, showcasing its evolution over the centuries.
How to Get There:
- Location: Situated in Făgăraș, about 70 km from Brașov.
- Getting There: Trains run regularly from Brașov to Făgăraș, taking about 1.5 hours.
Conclusion
Transylvania is a treasure trove of history and architecture, with its castles offering a glimpse into a rich past filled with intrigue and legends. Whether you’re a fan of Dracula lore or simply appreciate stunning views and historical architecture, these castles promise an unforgettable experience. And you can stend your visit cheching the 5 Must-Visit Villages in Romania
Plan your visit to these majestic sites, and don't forget your camera! Each castle tells a story waiting to be discovered.
This is the end of the blog about the Castles of Transylvania. We believe this will be of use to you! Don't forget to follow us @thewalkingparrot to be always updated on the new releases! We will be back soon with a new article!
Writer: Marta Chamosa
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