Does Transylvania Exist?

More than just Dracula, Transylvania is your gateway to rich, medieval Romania.

Transylvania is the stuff of legends; mere mention of the word brings to mind the dark, mysterious setting of historical legends and blood-soaked vampire lore. But is it real? Does Transylvania exist?

Yes, Transylvania exists.

In fact, it is Romania’s largest region, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, medieval castles, mountainous borders, and rich folklore. It’s also one of the most popular to visit. When planning your trip to Transylvania, there are some must-see sights to consider. Start with these. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Transylvania:

Bran (Dracula’s) Castle

This iconic castle, perched high atop a rock, is commonly known as “Dracula’s Castle.” It is located 16 mi southeast of Brașov. Around 60 timbered rooms containing various collections of furniture, weapons, and armor connect to each other by underground passages and narrow, winding stairways.

Not only does Transylvania exist, but literally the entire world has heard of it thanks to the many movies and books about Count Dracula in popular culture. Despite the numerous myths linking him to the Dracula legend, the majority of historians concur that Vlad III Dracula, commonly referred to as Vlad the Impaler, never visited Castle Bran. However, it’s a must-visit attraction for its fascinating history and stunning views.

Corvin Castle (Hunyadi Castle)

Located in Hunedoara, this impressive castle is one of the largest in Europe. It features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The castle is an impressive and massive building that boasts high towers, bastions, a central courtyard, and a variety of colorful roofs. Numerous windows and balconies feature intricate stone carvings. In addition, the castle is fortified with a double wall and flanked by both rectangular and circular towers, which was a unique architectural feature during the time of Transylvanian architecture.

Fun fact: Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest is a replica of this castle, built in 1896 as part of the Millennial Exhibition celebrating 1,000 years of Hungary.

Sighișoara

This picturesque and well-preserved medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its origins go back to the Romans. Its citadel, towers and turrets, charming cobblestone streets, ornate churches and colorful houses are its main attractions. The Church on the Hill boasts 500-year-old frescoes. Sighișoara is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the fictional Count Dracula.

LiBearty Bear Sanctuary

LiBearty Bear Sanctuary in Zărneşti is the largest brown bear sanctuary in Europe. It is home to over 130 brown bears rescued from circuses, small cages and other absolutely horrible circumstances. Opened in 2006, it now includes a few deer and wolves as well. All have found a much better life here, living in 170 acres of oak forest in the Carpathian Mountains. It’s good for the soul to see them living out their lives together, well cared for, basking in the cool grass and warm sunshine. One-hour guided tours around the beautiful property are available, and you can hear the stories of the bears that are now living in the sanctuary and learn more about the good work they do.

Turda Salt Mine

You may have visited other salt mines, but this place is different. This underground salt mine has evolved into quite a unique tourist attraction. There is a museum, an underground lake, even an amusement park with the world’s only underground panoramic wheel!

Peleș Castle

Peleș Castle is a neo-Renaissance castle near Sinaia, at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains. Built by the first King of Romania and completed in 1883, it was used as a summer residence. Its 160 rooms are filled with the finest examples of European art, Murano crystal chandeliers, German stained-glass windows and Cordoba leather-covered walls.

Transfagarasan Highway

This breathtakingly beautiful road winds through the Carpathian Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding scenery. It is the second highest mountain road in Romania, built in the 1970s as a strategic military pass connecting the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia. Due to its altitude, it is usually closed from late October until late June because of snow. It has many curves, hairpin turns, and sharp descents, as well as more tunnels than any other road in Romania. A section of the road is used for annual cycling competitions.

Bucegi Mountains

Bucegi National Park is one of Romania’s most impressive natural attractions. This mountain range offers some of the best hiking opportunities in Romania, with stunning landscapes and plenty of wildlife to spot. There are many hiking trails and caves to explore. The cable car can whisk you to the top for stunning views.

Transylvania Villages with Fortified Churches

There are over 150 fortified churches from the 13th to the 15th century in Transylvania. Each has its own unique architecture and history. In addition, seven of these villages are listed collectively as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hence, they are a must-visit attraction for history and architecture enthusiasts. The seven villages are Biertan, Câlnic, Dârjiu, Prejmer, Saschiz, Valea Viilor, and Viscri. When you visit these villages, you can you can experience rural life and learn about local customs and traditions.

Sibiu

Sibiu is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Transylvania. In 2007,  it was the European Capital of Culture, the first city in Eastern Europe to receive this title. Sibiu is a charming medieval town with towers, bastions, narrow streets, and colorful houses with “eyes.” (The houses have “eyes” due to the unique shape of the windows in the roof.) It is ideal as a base city from which to explore other parts of Transylvania.

Food in Transylvania

Transylvania has a rich culinary heritage, with dishes such as “sarmale” (stuffed cabbage rolls), “mici” or “mititei” (grilled meat rolls), and “papanasi” (dumplings with sweet cheese and sour cream). Do not miss the local traditional restaurants.

Transylvania Does Exist and is Well Worth a Visit

Overall, Transylvania is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. The long history and culture intertwined with mystery and legend will fascinate you. For those who prefer natural beauty and outdoor adventure, the scenery and mountains will captivate. Fortunately for us, Transylvania does exist and we can experience it all when we travel to Romania.

---

Recent Posts: