Have you started preparing your next trip? If the answer is yes, we offer you an idea for a route that is bound to interest you. Summer is a great time to plan one of those trips that everyone should take at least once in a lifetime. And sometimes you don’t need to go around the world to discover places full of history, personality and great tourist attractions. In this article we propose a one-week tour of the castles and fortresses of Romania. Keep reading and you will see why!
Which castles and fortresses in Romania should you visit?
Rent a car in Bucharest and move freely through the interior of Romania. This is the best way to enjoy this trip, and is perfect for those who love tales and legends, and medieval fortresses. We are going to tell you which castles and fortresses in Romania you must not miss:
Bran Castle
We start with what is perhaps the most famous castle in Romania, because it is the one popularly known as Dracula's castle. However, it is surprising to know that the character that inspired Bram Stoker did not actually live here, but in another fortress that we will tell you about later. Even so, it is worth a visit. Located in the heart of Transylvania, its imposing position on top of a rock makes it an impressive castle to say the least.
Peles Castle
The second destination we propose you is one of the most iconic of Transylvanian architecture. This castle, which is more like a palace, dates from the end of the 19th century, and combines Baroque and Italian Gothic elements. In addition, it has more than 160 rooms, making it one of the largest residences of the nobility in the country.
Rasnov Castle
We continue along our route, and we do so by going to Rasnov Castle. This fortress was built in the 13th century as a military defense to prevent invasions by the Ottomans and Tatar people. Built for a defensive castle, its looks more sober and austere than the more residential Peles Castle.
Poenari Castle
This castle, also known as the citadel of Poenari, is the place where Vlad the Impaler actually lived, the character on which the story of Dracula is based. Although its construction dates back to the 13th century, like most Romanian castles, it was not until the 15th century that Vlad Tepes restored it and made it his place of residence. However, with the passage of time it was left uninhabited and today only some parts have been preserved.
Corvin Castle
This fortress, which is also called Hunyad Castle, is one of the best-preserved castles with a "fairytale" look. Building began between the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, although it was extensively remodelled in the fifteenth century, when it acquired its current look, emphasising the wooden walkway that is the only entrance. And, like all good castles, there are many legends talked about it, which increases the halo of mystery that surrounds it.
Sighisoara Fortress
The last fortress on our route is in Sighisoara, one of the few fully inhabited fortified towns. In fact, walking through its streets feels like going back several centuries. The wall of the fortress are also the limits of the city, and its various towers give the city its totally medieval look. Among them is the Clock Tower, the main entrance to the fortress.
How do you travel the route of castles and fortresses in Romania?
The best way to visit these historic places is to rent a car in Bucharest, the capital of the country, so that you can move freely and cheaply. At OK Mobility we offer you a wide range of vehicles, for larger or smaller groups, for as long as you need them.
In addition, having your own vehicle gives you the opportunity not only to see all the castles and fortresses in the country, but also to visit other key tourist destinations to understand their culture and customs. We want to help you discover the world, starting with Romania, so don't wait any longer and book your car to plan your trip!
post