Bran Castle located in the cliff of the city of Brasov near Romania, famous for its home of Count Dracula from Bram Stoker’s stories. Along with Bran Castle associated with the legend of Dracula and often connections to Vlad the Impaler, the person who inspired Dracula.
Such an iconic landmark in Romania, considered as the most gorgeous fortress with a history of 6 centuries. During its lifetime Castle played an important role in defending Transylvania’s border and protecting Romania from different invasions.
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Bran Castle History
History of Bran Castle dates back to the 14th century, primarily built to protect Transylvani from attacks by the Ottoman Empires. Built by the Saxons of Kronstadt in 1377, as a defensive fortress against invading forces, its position on a mountain pass made it an important military base and customs post.
Perched at the top of the hill, offers perfect panoramic views of the valley and it is much helpful to stop the invasions and expansion of the Ottoman Empire. Over a period of time Castle was converted as a customs point to collect taxes from merchants and peasant who wish to enter Wallachia. In 1920, Bran Castle became a royal residence for Queen Marie of Romania, a place where she spent many years. During her period Castle underwent many architectural renovations and decorations, especially its fairy tale appearances. Currently it has 4 floors, like where furniture, ceramics, weapons are displayed. After 1947, Romania free from monarchy, immediately Castle became a popular tourist destination in Europe.
Inside Architectures of the Bran Castle
1. Rooms and Interiors
Bran Castle holds around 57 rooms that have witnessed centuries of history. King Ferdiand’s rooms are among the most well restored rooms under the castle. Rooms include ornate furniture and offer wonderful views of the village. Along with that, hand carved and elaborate fixtures covering the walls and ceiling is really impressive to watch. Visitors can take an eye on the Queen’s bedroom and chapel.
2. Narrow Staircases and Passages
Brans Castle includes stone secret passage among the 57 chambers inside, where only one person can pass through at a time. These are secrets, narrow and winding staircases, especially built to pass people to unknown places. These passages connect to the first and third floor, and entry to the secret corridor was hidden behind an antique fireplace. These elements were added by Queen Marie in 1920 to the dramatic atmosphere while renovating it.
3. Old Water Well
Located in the courtyard of Bran Castle, initially there is no well under the castle. Despite its decoration, Water Well was built in the 14th century, as a 60 feet deep well in order to drill through solid rock. There was also a secret room available just above the water level to hide castle treasures during invasions.
4. Views and Balconies
Since Bran Castle is located on top of the mountain obviously the location offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountain and Forest. Visitors can especially access ancient Balconies and terraces to capture perfect views.
5. The Queen’s Heart
One of the interesting facts is that before the death of Queen Marie requested that her heart be interred at a chapel in Balchik village. Balchik’s heart was placed at Bran Castle when she was returned to Bulgaria in 1940. At a small brook edge of the woodland, you can see the Queen’s heart.
6. The Donjon
Since Bran Castle is a Gothic architecture, most of the structures were built by the mix of wood and stone. The Donjon is a round tower, an iconic feature of Castle designed in 1593. Unfortunately the old tower was completely destroyed today.
7. Art and Antiques
Castle is renowned with many ancient antique collections and artefacts from Queen Marie’s life. These art and artefacts provide valuable insights about the history and royal family.
Bran Castle Tickets
Bran Castle includes a variety of ticket prices to their visitors based on age and season.
– Adults: 70 lei
– Senior (above 65+ age with valid ID): 50 lei
– Students (with valid ID): 40 lei
– School Children’s: 20 lei
– Groups of School children’s (Minimum 16 people): 15 lei
– Torture Chamber: 20 lei
– Time Torture: 30 lei.
Remember Ticket Price and Entre Fee are subject to change, please keep eye on updated ticket prices at respective
website.
Visiting Hours to the Barn Castle
Visitors can enter Bran Castle at 2 different time zones in 2 different seasons or months.
– From April to September
- Monday:
12:00 AM to 18:00 PM - From
Tuesday to Sunday: 09:00 AM to 18:00 PM
– From October to March
- Monday:
12:00 AM to 16:00 PM - Tuesday
to Sunday: 09:00 AM to 16:00 PM
Who Lived in Bran Castle?
Initially, Bran Castle is home of the title character Bram Stoker’s Dracula from Bram Stoker’s stories. But in 1920, Castle officially designed it as a royal residence for Queen Marie of Romania.
Is there a Real Dracula’s Castle?
Yes, there is a real castle that’s famous for Dracula’s Castle.
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