The legend of the prince Dracula, which appeared in the old Romanian province of Transylvania during the Middle Ages, considers Bran castle as the realm of the fierce vampire.

They say that the name of "Dracula" comes from a merciless ruler of Wallachia, Vlad the Impeller. This prince was also called "Dracul" (meaning "The devil") both due to his legendary harshness and due to the award his father received from a dragon regiment he served for. Vlad the Impeller, who ruled more than 500 years ago, is even today remembered for his relentless fight for social justice and national freedom.

The castle situated at about 180 km North of Bucharest is a remarkable architecture monument built between 1377 and 1382 on a 60-meter high rock. Bran castle had both a military and a customs- check point use as being positioned at the medieval border between Wallachia and Transylvania.

Even if it has suffered many changes, this fortress still preserves some Gothic archaic elements. The castle hosts a museum of medieval art (weapons, furniture and hunting trophies).

With its impressive look and mysterious atmosphere, the castle seems to keep alive the spirit of the old medieval Dracula's legend and is a major tourist attraction.

See below some other important objectives on the route to the castle and around.