Bran Dracula’s Castle
Associated rather to the myth of Dracula than true historic figures, the castle gained its fame following Bram Stoker’s homonym novel. The history of the Bran settlement (which means “gate” in Turkish) begins in the time of the Teutonic knights, in the 13th century, when it was a mere fortress. Only a century later did the people of Brasov received permission to build a castle which was finished in 1388.
Having a troubled history and being passed over between several owners, including being briefly owned by Mircea the Wise, Bran Castle finally ends up in the ownership of Queen Maria in 1920. The current appearance and interior decorations are part of the Queen’s legacy as she was the one who oversaw the restoration works and was in charge of decoration.
For more information visit the official website www.bran-castle.com
Rasnov Fortress
Built in the 14th century in Tara Barsei, probably in the time of the Teutonic knights, the fortified Citadel of Rasnov is the second important historic landmark at the entryway of Transylvania and closest to Bucharest.
The fort is spectacular by its high position, offering a sensational view of its surroundings, but most of all for the historic details about the old Transylvanian Saxons who lived in the Citadel.
The Citadel has two rows of courtyards, an interior courtyard and an exterior one.
The interior courtyard shows an old village organization, with still standing buildings named “the priest’s”, “the teacher’s”, while the exterior courtyard was house to the animals, cattle, further proof of the agricultural occupations of the residents.
Rasnov Citadel has become famous due to the fact it was the set for the movie “Cold Mountain”.
Prahova Valley
Is the most popular touristic area near Bucharest, with constant visitors in summer as well as winter, due to the resorts and ski slopes in Sinaia, Busteni, Azuga and Predeal.
Bucegi Mountains, part of the Carpathian chain, stretches from Prahova Valley to Bran Corridor and overlooks the entire region.
The highest point in Bucegi is Omu Peak, but the main natural attractions are the Sphinx and Babele rock formations.