Bran Castle – the legend of Dracula

Bran Castle and the legend of Dracula

The world famous Bran Castle lies 25 miles southwest of the city of Brasov in Romania. It is the only castle in Transylvania which matches Bran Stokers’ description of Dracula’s abode. The castle is built on top of a sheer cliff which actually forms some of the interior walls of the castle itself.

As we all know, Dracula is a fictitious character believed to be based on the real life Vlad Teped, a feared and brutal ruler of the area in the 15^th century. The name  Dracula actually means Dragon, and comes from the Crusader order of the Dragon. The real Vlad and his father were both members of this order.

The rest of the Dracula myth derives from the legends and popular beliefs in ghosts and vampires prevalent throughout Transylvania. Romania is a country swathed in superstition and supernatural beliefs passed down through generations.

Castle History

Bran castle has a long and complex history. As an implacable fortress built into the limestone cliffs, it marked the border between the former provinces of Moldova  and Wallachia. These three areas unite into the modern Romania we have today. Responsible for that unification is Queen Marie of Romania, a granddaughter of our very own Queen Victoria. She was gifted the castle by the people of Brasov in 1920.

Marie loved Bran castle and she completely redecorated the interior. Queen Marie’s notable style creates what now resembles a rather chic gothic themed boutique hotel. In 2016 a competition run by Air BnB, had the winners staying in the castle overnight at Halloween! They were sleeping in adjacent ‘luxurious, velvet trimmed coffins in the Count’s crypt!’

The castle has a curiously ancient and yet modern feel at the same time. I found it fascinating and quite a thrilling place to visit. My excellent guide Charlie steers me through the castle giving me snippets of history and fascinating anecdotes. The castle is full of ancient ornate furniture and has a great interactive Dracula exhibition on the upper floors. Spooky multi media exhibits bring the legend to life. There is even a display of a case of the tools you need to fight back against the vampire! 

Brasov and the surrounding area.

As a country Romania has a low level of vaccination against covid 19. People are inherently suspicious of the government, a real throwback to communist times, which many still remember clearly. Bran castle to the rescue!  A vaccination centre is set up in the grounds and offers free entry as an incentive for getting jabbed! 

Brasov is in fact the communist name for the city. Huge letters spelling out the name of the city appear at the top of the mountain which surrounds the town. It’s rather like the Hollywood sign in LA, except it’s in Transylvania.

I also visited the famous and very ornate Peles castle. Peles castle is an example of the incredibly luxurious home of past Romanian royalty. The castle sits on an existing medieval route which links Transylvania and Wallachia.

On the way we called in at the ancient monastery of Sinaia, part way up the winding hill. The church represents the orthodox religion and has a quite beautiful interior.

Back in Brasov

Brasov is quite a wealthy city with beautiful old buildings in the German style. The architecture in the city centre is colourful and elegant. The more stark utilitarian buildings from communist times are more on the outskirts. The huge Christmas tree is up in the square, the lovely civic buildings light up prettily by late afternoon.

We also had some lovely Romanian food while I was there, very meat and cheese based. A delicious apple strudel with homemade ice cream was a sweet highlight for me. Romanian wine is pretty good too.

Romania is quite an inexpensive destination. Public transport is satisfyingly cheap which is a point I always note in comparison to the UK.

I have always wanted to visit Bran castle or ‘Dracula’s castle.’ Its most breath taking dramatic exterior does not disappoint. By contrast, the interior feels actually rather cosy and welcoming, plus it only costs about £8 entrance fee. Definitely worth the contribution.. Furthermore, I would definitely recommend a guide if you do go, as there is so much to learn from a well informed local and y0u can ask questions as you go along.

Winter is a great time to visit Bran castle as you avoid the crowds of summer visitors. Romania is a surprising and fascinating country and Dracula’s castle was very much worth the trip!

More about rural Romania here