Whether you’re a student of architecture, a historian fascinated by the medieval times in Europe or a tourist simply looking for new sights to admire, Romania should definitely be on your list of places to see. Why? Simply because Romania is filled with medieval architectural wonders, the most notable of which are the magnificent Romanian castles located in Central Romania.

Indeed, no trip to Romania is complete without a tour of the Romanian castles which used to be the homes of Saxon nobility. Built as early as the 13th century, each castle is truly an imposing structure and a testament to the country’s medieval heritage. It is no wonder, then, that some are listed as World Heritage Sites.

One example is the Calnic Castle, also known as the Calnic Fortified Church. Located near the town of Sibiu, this castle dates back to the 13th century when it was built by Count Chyl de Kelling. Aside from its architectural beauty, it is popular for its defensive structures, particularly the Siegfried Tower, a five-storey tall tower with firing windows that can be seen even from afar.

Still, Bran Castle in the vicinity of Brasov remains as the most popular of the Romanian castles. It is also considered a national monument and is admired for its beautiful turrets and majestic walls. Although there is no proof that Vlad Tepes once lived there, the castle has earned the nickname ‘Dracula’s Castle’, making it a must-see attraction not just for vampire chasers but for all tourists on a trip to Romania. 

Another Romanian castle which draws large crowds of tourists annually is the Corvinesti Castle in Hunedoara. Considered the country’s greatest castle, it used to be the home of Prince Iancu, and boasts of a drawbridge, vast halls and more than 50 rooms embellished with medieval art.

The Peles Castle in Sinaia is also one of the most enchanting Romanian castles, as well, as one of the most magnificent castles in all of Europe. It is also the first European castle to be electrically lit. Built in the 18th century, Peles Castle is an outstanding example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and consists of 170 lavishly furnished rooms, although only 35 are open to the public.

Although not technically one of the Romanian castles, the Palace of Culture in Iasi also deserves some attention on your trip to Romania. It is one of the largest buildings in Romania and is home to four different museums: The Museum of Art, The Museum of Science and Technology, The Museum of History and The Museum of Ethnography.

You can also visit the Fagaras Castle, although it has been reduced to a shadow of its former glory, as well as the Valea Viilor Fortress and Mogosoaia Palace. Don’t forget the other minor Romanian castles and fortresses, too. Although smaller and relatively unknown, they can still make your trip to Romania complete and truly memorable.

Isabella Olsen is a writer who has travelled to global tourist destinations such as Romania by car. To book your cheap car hire Romania or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com.