8 Castles and Mansions You Have to See in Transylvania
Located near the Carpathian Mountains, Transylvania is a land of vast beauty. This region of Romania is so much more than just Dracula and werewolves. In addition to folklore, Transylvania is home to some of Europe’s oldest and prettiest castles. We’ve compiled a list of the mansions and castles that should be on your must-visit list, the next time you’re in Transylvania.
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Cantacuzino Castle
Cantacuzino Castle in Busteni, Romania was completed in 1911 at the request of Prince George Grigore Cantacuzino. The castle is located near the well-known and beautiful mountain resort Busteni. Cantacuzino Castle is the ideal location for grand events and destination weddings. It's also the perfect place to experience traditional Romania cuisine.
Banffy Castle
Banffy Castle is a gorgeous castle that has been owned by the Banffy family since 1387. During World War II the family residing in the castle evacuated. The castle interior was then destroyed and taken over by German military forces to use as a field hospital. Although it was on the World Monuments Watch List of One Hundred Most Dangerous Sites in 2000, it has now been restored and will be hosting an electronic music festival called Electric Castle in July 2018.
Bran Castle
Bran Castle is surrounded by myth, magic and intrigue. Although some claim that this castle is the castle that inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula, we can be certain that Bran Castle had seen the best and the worst of Medieval times. Vlad the Impaler and his army passed through Bran Castle in 1459 to settle a conflict over customs taxes. Today, this beautiful, yet eerie castle is open for tours, ensuring you’ll have a trip that you will never forget.
Daniel Castle Hotel
Located in Haromsxzek, Daniel Castle may not be what you think of when castles come to mind. Castles in this region of Transylvania were significantly smaller than castles in other parts of Europe, but this 374-year-old castle turned hotel is beautifully crafted and full of history. It’s the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the world, while still offering you all of the comforts of modern day life.
Transylvania Castle
We love Count Kalnoky's castle because it paints a true picture of Transylvania Life. The castle itself has been turned into a museum with artifacts and tapestries from the Count’s ancestors, but you can stay on the Count’s estate at one his guesthouses. The guestrooms are furnished with antique Transylvanian furniture. Daily tours and events are held to help you immerse yourself into the Transylvanian history and culture.
Peles Castle
Peles Castle is a large and beautiful castle nestled into the mountain countryside. This was the world's first castle powered by locally produced energy, using its very own power plant. Peles castle offers 3 tours with varying levels of the castle included. Immerse yourself in the castle's history by visiting the castle's museum.
Poenari Citadel
Poenari Citadel is the perfect excursion if you are into exploring castle ruins. This is yet another castle laying claim to hosting Count Dracula himself. It’s been featured in television and movie scenes as the famous vampire’s lair. While it was not the location used in Bram Stoker’s novel, it is still full of mystery. This trip is the perfect hiking adventure to explore the amazing grounds of these citadel ruins.
Daniel Castle Varghis
Located in Varghis, The Daniel Castle dates back to the year of 1580. Upon arriving and seeing the castles aged stone fence, you can immediately sense the castle’s history. This castle has seen everything from additions to damage from military operations. The castle's design is a mixture of the Baroque, Classical and late Rennaisance styles.