Last updated: 05.05.2025
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Have you always wondered where the infamous Count Dracula is said to have lived? Then you should visit Bran Castle, better known as the home of Count Dracula. Immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere and discover the place made famous through the books of Bram Stoker.
The History of Count Dracula
Learn more about the real-life inspiration for the fictional character Count Dracula, named Vlad III Draculea. But why was Vlad III Draculea so terrifying and the perfect model for a vampire? We have the answer: Vlad III Draculea made a name for himself as a Wallachian prince who struck fear into his enemies by openly demonstrating his penchant for impalement.
Even if you're not particularly interested in the legendary Count Dracula, you should give this imposing building a chance and visit the castle in the town of Bran in Transylvania. To this day, it's still unclear whether Bran Castle is truly the setting described in Bram Stoker's books. However, there's no denying that Bran Castle is the only one in all of Transylvania that resembles the descriptions from Stoker’s novel.
The History of Bran Castle (Törzburg)
So how did Bran Castle come to be? For that, we must travel back in time to the year 1377. At that time, Louis I of Hungary permitted the construction of a new stone fortress in Bran to replace the previously (presumably) wooden border fortress. Eighty years later, in 1407, the new fortress was handed over to Mircea the Elder, the most important military leader of Wallachia. After his death in 1419, the castle returned to its former owner, Sigismund of Luxembourg.
Since the castle is now famous due to Vlad III Draculea, one might wonder when he came into possession of the fortress. That happened just 40 years later, in 1459. Vlad Țepeș, also known as Vlad the Impaler, Count Dracula, and Vlad III Draculea, attacked Brașov and Bran. A treacherous move, considering he had been an ally for many years. But that didn’t stop him—he didn’t spare the citizens. Instead, he burned down the suburbs of Brașov and killed many Transylvanian Saxons. He became infamous for the countless executions by impalement and earned a reputation as a bloodthirsty tyrant—a man who instilled fear and served as the perfect model for Bram Stoker's Dracula.
Bran Castle Today
Bran Castle stands high atop a rock and was originally intended to serve as a border and defense fortress. The castle towers majestically over the gorge—a sight that impresses every visitor.
Following architectural changes over the centuries that led to the addition of new towers, Bran Castle was handed over in 1920 to Queen Marie of Romania. This transfer marked the beginning of major renovations led by court architect Karel Liman, who transformed the fortress into a kind of hunting lodge. Today, Bran Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania and is definitely worth a visit—even for those who aren’t Dracula fans.
The Museum Inside the Castle
The castle houses a museum spread across four floors. Explore collections of historical armor and weapons as well as personal belongings of the Habsburg family (descendants of Queen Marie). Discover the crown, a silver dagger, and even the scepter—all of them unique items.
The Habsburg family still exists today, although they are no longer nobility and now pursue regular careers. Since 2006, however, the castle has been formally owned by the heirs of Princess Ileana (daughter of Queen Marie).
The Outdoor Courtyard Museum
But it’s not just the museum inside the castle that fascinates visitors—there is also a small open-air museum in the courtyard. It showcases the lifestyle and traditions of Transylvanian farmers and lets you travel back in time.
Everything for Dracula Fans
Dracula fans will particularly enjoy the Bram Stoker Room in Bran Castle. This room provides all the essential information about the famous novel by the Irish author.
The DMC Team Wishes You a Wonderful Trip!
We wish you a fantastic journey to Romania and are happy to assist with any questions about Romania and its toll regulations. Feel free to contact us via email at: [email protected]
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