Romania is a country with a rich medieval heritage, as well as a land of awe-inspiring architecture. Each year, many tourists book a trip to Romania to see the ancient houses along the streets of Sibiu, the picturesque monasteries in Bucovina and of course, the magnificent Romanian castles towering over Transylvania and its neighboring cities.
Indeed, the Romanian castles are the country’s most popular tourist destinations – a fact which comes as no surprise to anyone who has ever been on a trip to Romania. Built between the 13th and 18th centuries and former residences of the Saxon nobility, each castle is an imposing landmark. Some of them have even been included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites.
The Calnic Castle near Sibiu is one such castle. Also known as the Calnic Fortified Church, this castle was built by Count Chyl de Kelling in the 13th century. It is well known for its defensive structures, particularly its high walls and the five-storey tall Siegfried Tower, which, today, serves as the castle’s museum.
Still, it is Bran Castle which stands out as the most popular of the Romanian castles and is therefore, a must-see attraction for those on a trip to Romania. Located in the vicinity of Brasov, Bran Castle is a national monument well known for its majestic walls and beautiful turrets. It is also said to have been the home of Vlad Tepes and Bram Stoker’s Dracula, although these are yet to be proved.
Another popular Romanian castle is the Corvinesti Castle, the former residence of Prince Iancu, one of Romania’s most famous rulers. Located in Hunedoara, it is considered as the country’s greatest, particularly because of its impressive drawbridge, vast halls and more than 50 chambers decorated with medieval art.
The Peles Castle at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains in Sinaia is also one of the most popular Romanian castles and is an outstanding example of Neo-Renaissance architecture. It stands out among all European castles, as well, as the most stunning and the first to be powered by electricity. Built in the 18th century, the castle has 170 lavishly furnished rooms, although only 35 of them are accessible to the public.
Although it is not listed as one of the Romanian castles, the Palace of Culture is also an architectural beauty and is worth a visit on your trip to Romania. Inaugurated in 1926, it has 298 rooms and houses the country’s Museums of Art, Science and Technology, Ethnography and History.
Other Romanian castles you can visit include the Fagaras Castle, the Valea Viilor Fortress and the Mogosoaia Palace, as well as other minor castles and fortresses. True, they may not be as grand as the major castles, but they can still make your trip to Romania one worth remembering for years to come.
Isabella Olsen is a writer who has travelled to global tourist destinations such as Romania by car. To book your Austria rental cars or learn more about cheap rental cars worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com.