Romania is home to many beautiful castles and medieval fortresses. Some of them are famous throughout Europe. Others are less known, but equally impressive. Unfortunately, most of these fortifications suffered neglect over the centuries and remained in a dismal state until the fall of Communism. But in more recent years Romanians began rebuilding and restoring many of these historical buildings, so today there are quite a few castles worth visiting in Romania.
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MUST-SEE CASTLES IN ROMANIA
There are many reasons to visit Romania and visiting the medieval castles and fortresses rank pretty high up on this list. Here are the top 10 castles and medieval fortresses in Romania you should add to your list:
Peles Castle
Peleș is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. Located in Sinaia, very close to Bucharest, the Peles was the royal hunting retreat of Carol I of Hohenzollern, King of Romania.
The construction lasted for over 40 years (1873-1941) and it costed 16,000,000 Romanian lei in gold (approximately US$ 120 million today). Peles Castle remained in the royal family possession until 1947, when the communists seized all the royal property, forcing King Michael of Romania to abdicate.
The communist regime closed the entire Peles estate and declared it a “State Protocol Interest Area.” Only military personnel and maintenance persons could go on the property. In the 1990s, after the fall of Communism, the castle opened to the public and became a museum.
Bran Castle
Bran Castle was established as a fortress by the Teutonic Knights, as part of a defense system against the Mongolian invasions. The castle sits in a strategic location: up on a cliff, on the passageway between Transylvania and Wallachia (in old Romania).
Bran Castle was a gift to Prince Mircea the Elder from his ally, King Sigismund of Hungary. After the death of the Romanian Prince in 1419, Sigismund gave the castle to the Princes of Transylvania.
Contrary to the popular belief, Bram Stoker’s character Dracula did not have any connection with Bran Castle. Nonetheless, this castle is still one of the most popular places to visit in Romania. Vlad The Impaler’s only connection with Bran was through an alliance that he did during his first reign with the Princes of Transylvania. They asked him to handle the anti-Ottoman resistance at the border.
In more modern times, Bran Castle became the summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania. She did a lot of remodeling and renovations to the old fortress, transforming it into the beautiful castle that we see today.
Corvin Castle (a.k.a. Hunedoara Castle)
This fairytale castle in the heart of Transylvania is one of the largest and most impressive ones in Eastern Europe. It is without a doubt one of the most instagramable places in Romania.
The castle was built in the 14th century by John Hunyadi (Ioan of Hunedoara) on the site of an old fortress which his father received from King Sigismund of Hungary.
The Castle is a real medieval architectural gem with pointed turrets, an imposing entrance bridge, scary gargoyles, beautiful fountains and many rooms. Despite the ugly industrial area that surrounds it, the Corvin Castle is one of the most beautiful fortresses I have ever seen. In 2003 the castle underwent lots of renovations and is today in a very good shape.
Mogosoaia Palace
The beautiful Castle of Mogosoaia is just a short distance away from Bucharest, Romania’s capital. The palace was erected in the 17th century by Constantin Brâncoveanu, prince of Wallachia. The palace has a beautiful setting, alongside the lake that bears the same name.
Built in Romanian Renaissance style (or Brâncovenesc style), Mogoșoaia Palace had a troubled history. In 1714, the Ottomans invited Constantin Brancoveanu and his family to Constantinople and asked him to convert to Islam. As Brâncoveanu refused, they executed him and confiscated his fortune.
During the Russo-Turkish War of 1768-1774, Mogosoaia Palace suffered again at the hands the Ottomans. In the following years the castle underwent a lot of restorations, but the Germans bombed it again in 1916.
In the 1920s Princess Martha Bibesco purchased the palace and spent her private fortune for its reconstruction. After 1945, the communist authorities forcibly nationalized the castle and arrested the owners. During that arrest a great part of the valuable art collection of the palace mysteriously “disappeared.” In 1957 Mogosoaia Palace became a museum.
Must-See Fortresses in Romania
The Citadel of Alba Iulia
Alba Iulia Citadel is typical example of Vauban military architecture and one of the most beautiful castles in Romania. Alba Iulia’s history dates back to the Roman period.
In the Middle Ages Alba Iulia served as the capital of the independent Principality of Transylvania and the residence of the Transylvanian princes. The fortress that you see today was erected by Charles VI of Habsburg in the 18th century.
In the second part of the 19th century, the municipality demolished most of the fortress’s walls and bastions in order to make room for the modern city. During the communist era, the fortress fell into complete neglect because of the lack of funds for repairs.
In recent years the citadel of Alba Iulia was fully restored and became one of the most visited fortresses in Romania. When visiting the fortress today, you can still see three of the original six highly ornamented, early Baroque gates.
The Fortress of Râsnov
Not far from the city of Brasov is one of the best preserved castles in Romania: the Fortress of Râsnov. This fortification belonged to the Teutonic Knights who were brought here to defend the Southeastern border of Transylvania from the Cumans and the Pechenegs.
The legend says that during a long siege the citizens of Râsnov asked two Turkish prisoners to dig a well in the center of the fortress. Because the work was long and tedious, they promised to release the two men to once they completed their task.
Finally, after 17 years, the two Turkish prisoners managed to finish the well. But unfortunately the citizens of Râsnov didn’t keep their word. Not only they did not release the prisoners, but in the end they even killed the prisoners. The famous 146 meter deep well still sits in the center of the fortress.
The old Fortress of Râsnov underwent a lot of restoration and the remains look quite impressive now. There is also a museum where you can see some interesting artifacts.
The Fortress of Slimnic
Completed at the beginning of the 14th century on the site of another old fortification, the fortress of Slimnic was as a refuge place for the Saxon communities in the area.
For the construction, the Saxons used entirely the bricks from this other fort. They first erected a Gothic chapel and the current bell tower. Then, towards the end of the 14 century, they started building another structure which they never managed to complete.
The western wall of the fortification with crenels and loopholes dates back to the 15th Century. During the 16th century the fortress was extended again and reinforced to better resist the attacks.
Over the centuries the Fortress of Slimnic was besieged in various occasions first by the by Turks then by the Hungarians. The repeated attacks mainly destroyed the second ring wall, which surrounded the parish church built in the 14th Century. In the 18th century, after the rebels of Francisc Rákóczi II set it on fire, the fortress was abandoned for good.
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The Fortress of Rupea
Established by the Saxons in the 13th century, the fortress of Rupea is one of the oldest medieval sites in Transylvania. The Hungarians called it Köhalom, meaning “mound of rocks” in Hungarian.
At some point almost 400 people lived self-sufficiently between the walls of the fortress. They had here everything they needed to survive: a local market, a fountain, a parish, a chapel, and even a so-called “bacon tower,” where they stored all the meat reserves.
The the fortress served as refuge for the inhabitants of the surrounding villages against attackers. Although once one of Transylvania’s most important citadels, Rupea was slowly abandoned. As a result, by the end of the 19th century, the fortres- became just a pile of rocks.
During the Communist era the ruins of Rupea barely escaped total demolition. After the fall of Communism in 1990, the local authorities made several attempts to restore the fortress but the lack of funds made the restoration impossible for more than 20 years.
Finally, in 2013, the once derelict ruins had undergone extensive renovations. Today the fortress of Rupea is a major tourist attraction in the county of Brasov.
The Church-Fortress of Biertan
Located in the County of Sibiu, Biertan is a typical Saxon village which is home to one of the most imposing fortified churches in Transylvania. The fortress-church of Biertan was first mentioned in a document of King Matei Corvin in 1486.
The fortified churches were spiritual and defensive centers of the villages where the villagers would retreat in case of an attack. Because the thick walls of the church remained cool year round, food was easy to preserve there. As a result, people used to store dry food (flour, bacon) within the church walls and used it when they had to retreat.
The fortress has three exterior walls and five towers, each one interesting on its own way.
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The Ruins of the Fortress of Saschiz
Saschiz is known for its medieval fortress and church constructed by the Saxons, a population of German origin who settled here when Transylvania was part of Hungary.
The ruins of a 14th-century fortress sit atop a hill overlooking the village. Although the former fortress is in a pretty bad state, you can still see a good part of it if you walk around the ruins.
Not many visitors of Romania get to visit the ghostly ruins of Saschiz fortress. That’s partly because the local authorities don’t want visitors in that area, for safety reasons. Consequently, there is no marked road or signs leading to the fortress.
There is a small dirt road from the village center that leads to the ruins. Part of it is drivable, but the rest you’ll have to walk through a forest (about 15 minutes). The walk is not very difficult and it’s well worth it.
From the fortress you have a beautiful view of the village below and the beautiful Clock Tower of the fortified church of Saschiz. You can also see the Tower if you travel the European road (E60) that crosses the centre of Saschiz.
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Muzz
Very inspiring medieval architecture. I love the list you have compiled. I’ve never really thought about Romania but after reading this and going through your photos I would love to go to Romania one day.
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net)
Ooooh my gosh. Corvin Castle! #swoon That really is a fairy tale setting. We have never been to Romania, but we definitely feel the country calling us. And when we go, we’re taking this list so we don’t miss these awesome castles! Great list Anda – we really enjoyed it!
Anda Galffy
Thanks, Rob.
Bryna - Dotted Line Travels
They’re all so beautiful, I wouldn’t even know which ones I would pick to visit if I ever got the chance. Of course, I hope to visit them all!
David
What a great list Anda! I’ve been to Bran, Peles, Corvin and Rasnov and each really impressed me. I was quite disappointed that I didn’t see Biertan, so its definitely my most anticipated for next time. I wasn’t familiar with Saschiz so that has gone on my list.
Anda Galffy
Thanks for your comment, David. Romania is pretty close to you, so it’s easy to go back and visit more of these castles.
Mary {The World Is A Book}
I never realized there were these many beautiful castles and fortresses in Romania. I have such a fascination with European castles and I’d love to visit these someday. I really love how Hunyadi looks. Straight out of a fairytale book. WHat a great and interesting post and beautiful photos, Anda.
Anna
I´ve really wanted to visit the Peleș for so long since I saw somewhere its gorgeous interiors!!! I didn´t realize there were so many beautiful medieval castles and fortresses. I guess most of the people only know the Bran Castle and of course, the Transylvanian area is famous because of Dracula, but Romania really has much more to offer. Hope to visit soon!
Janice & George (SandInMySuitcase)
We love exploring old castles and palaces, especially if they’re furnished to show you how lavishly the inhabitants lived! Peles Castle looks particularly beautiful :-).
Anda Galffy
Yes, indeed, Janice. Peles Castle is one of those where furniture was still left intact after all these years.
Alice V
Wow, Romania looks so beautiful! And so rich in history, it’s been on my bucket list since I was a teenager.
California Globetrotter
You’ve put together a wonderful list! We were quite lucky enough to manage to see 3 of them in our short time in Romania. I had wanted to visit Mogosoaia Palace while we were there but couldn’t fit it in! Next time though! Some of these though I haven’t heard of yet and will be adding them to my list!
Anda Galffy
It’s great that you could see some of these castles, Lolo.
Esther
Oh wow, I love this article. Over the years I have read so many great things about Romania and seen so many wonderful photos. This article, too, proves that it is a destination I simply must get to!
Anda Galffy
Glad to know you liked my article, Esther.
Victoria
Anda, we just came back from our Romanian trip! we only had a week and included two of the castles on your list. We also visited some medieval towns, Bucharest, the mountains and a sea break. There is so much diverse beauty!
Anda Galffy
I’m glad you had a good trip to Romania, Victoria. I’m going to go there too in October.
Paul
This is a great post. The history is very interesting. We were in Istanbul recently and the whole Ottoman backstory is so fascinating.
Anisa
I have to admit I don’t know much about Romania. I have heard of Bran’s Castle but the rest of these are new to me. They all look amazing. Hopefully, I can make it to Romania at some point.
Emese
Isn’t it amazing how beautiful these castles are, restored? Other than the Mogosoaia, I’ve visited them all over the years, some of them before they were reconstructed. Last time I took my family to Risnov and Rupea, I barely recognized them. I’m disappointed by the way they turned Bran into this huge tourist trap though, but I guess it was inevitable. I’m glad though that the other castles, once lesser-known, are reconstructed and enjoyed. So much history there! Love your photos, they are gorgeous!
Anda Galffy
Thanks, Emese. I like revisiting some of these castles once in a while.
Lorri
Lovely post! Did you drive in Romania? How are the roads? I’ve not yet driven in eastern Europe and hope to change that in the near future! This post certainly has whetted my appetite to visit Romania. Beautiful!
Anda Galffy
The roads are OK, Lorri. Romania has highways and even a couple of freeways, but unfortunately the highways go through villages where the speed is reduced and where you can encounter bicycles and sometimes horse-drawn carts.
Photo(Geo)grapher
Fascinating post! These castles look extraordinary.
Linda Bibb
Well, I must hand it to the people who market Bran Castle to tourists, because it’s certainly got the Dracula market cornered. 🙂 My cousin has always been an aficionado of the book and could probably write a tome about all the facts and legends surrounding Vlad III, who inspired Bram Stoker’s famous character.
I’m guessing you’ve not visited Poenari Castle, Vlad’s home (it’s in Arges County). It’s just ruins now, but even if it were restored it is hard to imagine that it could ever have been as beautiful as the stunning castles you shared in this post. Until now I’ve wanted to visit Romania simply for the Transylvanian scenery, Roma culture and the painted churches. I can see there’s so much more to appreciate than even that. I guess we’ll need to plan to spend even more time there.
Anda Galffy
Now is the best time to plan a trip to Romania, Linda, while it’s still cheap. It’s a beautiful country and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it a lot.
Suze - Luxury Columnist
I visited Romania before starting my blog and this has really made me want to return. Like you, Anda, I was impressed by those amazing castles and the sense of time having stood still
Anda Galffy
Romania has come a long way from the time I’ve been there, Suze. I see surprisingly good changes every year, which are a sign that the country is on its way to recovery from the scars of Communism.
Jeremy
Looking forward to seeing these forts and castles when I get to seeing Eastern Europe … next summer perhaps!
Rhonda Albom
I remember that perfect 10, and yes, it probably was all I knew about Romania (other than Dracula) as a child. I love medieval castles and fortresses, and these are all beautiful and interesting. So much history. My youngest daughter has Romania high on her list, so we will probably get there before she is grown.
Anda Galffy
Make sure you do, Rhonda. You’ll love Romania, especially the northern part of the country.
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles)
These castles look extraordinary. Romania will no doubt get a huge influx of tourists if you keep writing posts like this and the one you wrote about the monastery last week. I particularly like the look of that village, Sashchiz. So pretty!
Anda Galffy
Ha,ha,ha! I may be driving some tourists to Romania with these posts, but I don’t think they will be sorry. Tourism is just beginning there and Romania is still very cheap. Really worth going now.
Maggie
Really enjoyed reading about the history of Romania. I had no idea the that the scenery was so beautiful or the towns, fortresses and villages were so fascinating.
Anda Galffy
It really is beautiful. And these are not even the most beautiful castles that Romania has. There are many more.
Ahila
I have been quite interested in visiting Romania for several years now ever since seeing beautiful photos from my friends’ visits. Your informative post on castles and fortresses, especially the photos of Castle Bran and Saschiz, makes me want to plan for a trip in the near future. Thanks for hosting #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Anda Galffy
Thank you, Ahila. I’m glad to hear that my post and photos convinced you to go visit Romania.
Sally@Toddlers on Tour
I’m a sucker for castles, just love the medieval mystery about them.
I had no idea there were so many castles in Romania.
Debbra Dunning Brouillette
Fascinating post, Anda! Until reading your recent posts, I had no idea now beautiful Romania is! It looks like you had wonderful weather when you were there, and your photos are, as usual, wonderful!
Anda Galffy
I’m glad you liked it, Debbra. Romania has so many castles and fortresses that you can’t imagine. These are just a few of them and not even the most beautiful ones.
Michelle | michwanderlust
Wow, this is incredible. Medieval castles and fortresses have always fascinated me, seeing as we don’t have any of that in Singapore. Especially intriguing? The multipurpose fortified church. It doesn’t really look like a fortress! I have to confess that for the longest time whenever I heard “Transylvania”, I thought “Dracula”. My boyfriend went to Transylvania a few years back. He had some interesting stories about getting lost miles away from anywhere after dark. All ended well though. Great read, thank you!
Anda Galffy
Hope your boyfriend didn’t come with bad impressions from Romania, Michelle. Getting lost is not fun anywhere in the world, though…
Lydia C. Lee
This looks stunning – I’ve never really thought about Romania but it definitely looks worth checking out!! I hadn’t realised how ‘intact’ it was, historically. Fab photos and fab post! You’ve sold me!
Anda Galffy
Well, thank you Lydia! I think Romania should thank me for advertising it so much. I was actually born there and love going back once in a while.
Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats
Romania always seem to look so green and beautiful! I went to graduate school with someone from Transylvania who has since moved back and tells me I need to come visit. Romania is definitely one of those places I look forward to exploring in the future!
Anda Galffy
You should take advantage of your friend being in Transylvania, Jessica. She could show you the beautiful sites in Romania.