Bran Castle
Have you always wondered exactly where the famous Count Dracula is said to have lived? Then you should visit Bran Castle, better known as the home of Count Dracula. Immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere and discover the place already made famous by the books of Bram Stoker.
The story of Count Dracula
Learn more about the real-life inspiration for the fictional character Count Dracula, known as Vlad III Draculea. But why was Vlad III Draculea so terrifying and the perfect model for a vampire novel? We can give you the answer: Vlad III Draculea made a name for himself as a Wallachian prince, spreading fear and terror among his enemies by openly displaying his penchant for impalement.
But even without any interest in the legendary Count Dracula, you should give this imposing building a chance and visit the castle in the town of Bran in Transylvania. To this day, it remains questionable whether Bran Castle is actually the place described in Bram Stoker's books. What is undisputed, however, is that it is the only castle in all of Transylvania that resembles the descriptions in the Dracula novel.
The history of Bran Castle (Törzburg)
The origins of Bran Castle date back to the year 1377. At that time, Louis I of Hungary permitted the construction of a new stone fortress in Bran, which replaced a presumably wooden border fortress. In 1407, the complex was handed over to Mircea cel Bătrân, one of the most important military leaders of Wallachia. After his death in 1419, the castle passed back into the possession of Sigismund of Luxembourg.
Vlad III Draculea came into possession of the fortress in 1459. Under the name Vlad the Impaler, he gained sad notoriety through numerous executions by impalement. His cruelty made him one of the most feared figures of his time and the perfect model for Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Bran Castle today
Bran Castle sits impressively on a rock above a gorge and was originally built as a border and defensive fortress. Its imposing appearance continues to delight visitors to this day.
In 1920, the castle was handed over to Queen Marie of Romania. Under the direction of the court architect Karl Liman, the former fortress was transformed into a stately castle. Today, Bran Castle is one of Romania's most popular attractions.
The museum in the castle
Inside the castle is a museum spread over four floors. Visitors can view collections of historic armor and weapons as well as personal belongings of the Habsburg family, including crowns, daggers, and scepters.
The museum in the castle courtyard
Another small museum in the castle courtyard shows the traditional life of Transylvanian peasants and offers fascinating insights into times gone by.
Highlight for Dracula fans
A special highlight for fans is the Bram Stoker Room, which deals in detail with the famous Dracula novel by the Irish author.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
Bran Castle is definitely worth a visit, not only for Dracula fans. We wish you a pleasant trip to Romania and lots of fun on your road trip. For more information on the toll regulations in Romania, please see our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to optimally plan your trip. If you have any questions, we are always available by email.
