Hi, I'm a British expat who currently lives in Poland. I teach English and travel. I keep a blog ca...
Hi, I'm a British expat who currently lives in Poland. I teach English and travel. I keep a blog called "A Band A Day" If you'd like to check it out http://www.muscineverdied.com
Member since:06.02.2006
Reviews:198
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Bran Castle is an overpowering structure which lies on top of a hill overlooking the small village of Bran which is closely located to Brasov. Bran is famous as being "Dracula's Castle", although there is no proof that Vlad Tepes actually ever set foot in the building, although it is thought that he may have hung out there for a few days during warfare. There is even less evidence that Bram Stoker knew anything about it.
This is however a cracking selling point and the eerieness of the castle's gothic architecture adds to the feeling. What doesn't really add to the feeling is the large amount of stalls selling Dracula and Romania memorobillia nor the hoardes of tourists waddling along in a line. Like so many "special" places, the people visiting it often take away any feeling of authenticity the landmarks have and I'd be a hypocrite to say I didn't - as I was also a visitor!
The building was originally built in the 13th century but was destroyed by the Mongols, it was later re-built and remained a mainstay of the Hungarian Empire for the centuries to follow. The castle is really sublime and it exhibits a wonderful collection of art and furniture from Queen Marie's collection. It became a residence of the Romanian royal family at the turn of last century and that's when Queen Marie who was actually part of the British Royal Family became involved, the grandaughter of Victoria and Prince Albert (daughter of their 2nd son), she married Ferdinand I of Romania and lived at this residence. She was an avid collector of Romanian artefacts and a lot of the things on show are very interesting.
Marie didn't get on with her husband and was a bit of a saucey mare, having several lovers and giving birth to several children of other lovers supposedly, one which mysteriously disappeared. Some of the tour guides stories are pretty humorous and despite the museum feel, it's actually pretty homely - I think I could live there!
Before or after entering the castle, there is an exhibition at the bottom of the building which has some fine examples of Romanian farm buildings and houses from throughout the country. This in itself, is an interesting little lesson. Whilst cheesy in places, it is still an interesting structure and a must visit. The 30km from Brasov is easily covered whether it be by mini bus, bus, your own car or hitchhiking. It's also possible to walk across the mountains from Sinaia and possibly Brasov too.
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