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Bran Castle

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Amanda
Amanda
First Reviewer
4 out of 5
Avg. Member Rating
3
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Editor Pick

The So-called Dracula's Castle!

  • February 25, 2009
  • Rated 4 of 5 by dangaroo from Warsaw, Poland
Bran Castle is an overpowering structure which lies on top of a hill overlooking the small village of Bran which is closely located to Brasov. Bran is famous as being "Dracula's Castle", although there is no proof that Vlad Tepes actually ever set foot in the building, although it is thought that he may have hung out there for a few days during warfare. There is even less evidence that Bram Stoker knew anything about it.

This is however a cracking selling point and the eerieness of the castle's gothic architecture adds to the feeling. What doesn't really add to the feeling is the large amount of stalls selling Dracula and Romania memorobillia nor the hoardes of tourists waddling along in a line. Like so many "special" places, the people visiting it often take away any feeling of authenticity the landmarks have and I'd be a hypocrite to say I didn't - as I was also a visitor!

The building was originally built in the 13th century but was destroyed by the Mongols, it was later re-built and remained a mainstay of the Hungarian Empire for the centuries to follow. The castle is really sublime and it exhibits a wonderful collection of art and furniture from Queen Marie's collection. It became a residence of the Romanian royal family at the turn of last century and that's when Queen Marie who was actually part of the British Royal Family became involved, the grandaughter of Victoria and Prince Albert (daughter of their 2nd son), she married Ferdinand I of Romania and lived at this residence. She was an avid collector of Romanian artefacts and a lot of the things on show are very interesting.

Marie didn't get on with her husband and was a bit of a saucey mare, having several lovers and giving birth to several children of other lovers supposedly, one which mysteriously disappeared. Some of the tour guides stories are pretty humorous and despite the museum feel, it's actually pretty homely - I think I could live there!

Before or after entering the castle, there is an exhibition at the bottom of the building which has some fine examples of Romanian farm buildings and houses from throughout the country. This in itself, is an interesting little lesson. Whilst cheesy in places, it is still an interesting structure and a must visit. The 30km from Brasov is easily covered whether it be by mini bus, bus, your own car or hitchhiking. It's also possible to walk across the mountains from Sinaia and possibly Brasov too.

From journal A Little Look into Transylvania

Bran Castle

  • March 24, 2005
  • Rated 4 of 5 by cassans from Exeter, United Kingdom
Bran Castle

An attempt to lure tourists to the castle has been made by claiming it belonged to Dracula, but really, they needn't have bothered - the castle is an attraction as it is and a major tourist site in Romania. Its bright fairytale turrets and winding passages of small but brightly filled rooms are fascinating.

There are many stalls outside the castle selling food and traditional (and some kitsch) items as gifts, and I personally found the markets an excellent place to buy.

It is possible to drive or take the bus to the castle, but we had a driver take us for the afternoon (and also went to Rasnov Castle - see entry) which was arranged by our hostel 'Kismet Dao Villa' for $20 (or $5 each for four in a car) - very reasonable!

From journal Romania - Brasov

Editor Pick

Bran Castle

  • July 31, 2000
  • Rated 4 of 5 by Amanda from London, United Kingdom
Bran Castle

The 14th century castle is the alleged home of the original Dracula. It's a lovely little place, although remarkably unspooky! It has white-washed walls, tiled roofs, and a tranquil rather than threatening air. There isn't a museum here, exactly, but some of the rooms show original furniture from the castle and are interesting. Most of the rooms are empty, however, but the views are amazing! The courtyard has an interesting herb garden section, and the wells that supplied the castle with water. To get there, take a bus from Brasov, and you'll see the castle easily as you near it. After you've paid, you have to walk up a fairly steep hill and some steps - about 15 minutes altogether. The place is not accessible to the disabled, I'm afraid. It costs about 80p to get into the castle, payable at the bottom of the hill.

From journal Transylvania - Dracula and beautiful countryside -

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