Transylvania, Romania’s most renowned region, is a land where myths intertwine with history, offering visitors a tapestry of medieval fortresses, picturesque landscapes, and legendary castles. Beyond the tales of Dracula, Transylvania boasts some of Europe’s most impressive architectural treasures, notably the Corvin Castle, often referred to as the “living legend of Transylvania.”

A Fairytale Castle Recognized Worldwide

The American publication The Huffington Post has highlighted Corvin Castle as one of the most spectacular fairytale castles globally, ranking it alongside:

1. Corvin Castle, Romania
2. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
3. Eltz Castle, Germany
4. Lichtenstein Castle, Germany
5. Bodiam Castle, Great Britain

Step into Medieval Transylvania – Corvin Castle

Constructed in the 15th century, Corvin Castle is a stunning example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture and stands as one of Europe’s largest castles. As you cross its imposing drawbridge and enter its fortified walls, you’re transported back to a time of knights and legends.

• Marvel at the imposing towers and grand halls that once hosted noble feasts and political intrigues.
• Uncover the eerie legends of prisoners held within its dungeons, including tales associated with Vlad the Impaler.
• Explore the Knight’s Hall and the chapel, where medieval ceremonies and gatherings took place.
• Appreciate the intricate stone carvings and colored roofs, reflecting the castle’s rich history and architectural grandeur.

Each corner of this fortress tells stories of battles, treachery, and royal ambitions, offering a deep dive into Transylvania’s medieval past.

Alba Iulia – The Historical Heart of Romania

Following our journey through medieval times, we proceed to Alba Iulia, often regarded as Romania’s spiritual and historical capital. This city encapsulates over 2,000 years of history, blending Roman roots, medieval fortifications, and the monumental events of the 1918 Great Union.

Walking through the historic fortifications, we’ll encounter:

• ✔️ The impressive Alba Carolina Citadel, a star-shaped fortress constructed between 1716 and 1735, exemplifying the Vauban style.
• ✔️ The Coronation Cathedral, where Romania’s monarchs were crowned in the early 20th century.
• ✔️ The Roman Catholic Cathedral, a masterpiece of early medieval architecture dating back to the 13th century.
• ✔️ The Union Hall, the historic site where the unification of Transylvania with Romania was declared in 1918.

Every step in Alba Iulia reveals layers of Romania’s rich heritage, making it an essential destination for history enthusiasts.

Optional Extension – Delve into Ancient Dacian Heritage

For those eager to explore Transylvania’s ancient history, we offer an optional visit to:

• 🏛️ Sarmizegetusa Regia – the ancient Dacian capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• 🏛️ Sarmizegetusa Ulpia Traiana – the Roman capital of Dacia, showcasing the remnants of Roman civilization in the region.

This journey is more than a day trip; it’s an immersive experience through time, legends, and breathtaking landscapes.

📍 Ready to embark on this historical adventure? Book now and step into the rich tapestry of Transylvania’s past!

Let’s start our Sibiu – Corvini Castle – Alba Iulia journey!

We’ll enjoy the spectacular view of the castle, the imposing bridge and the water moat. Inside the castle we’ll visit most of the rooms, towers, bastions, the terrace with its water well and bear pit, the throne room, even the prison and the torture room. 

The castle has an amazing history with lots of great gossips and legends to reveal. No wonder the imposing structure has attracted so many film makers. Therefore, great Hollywood productions were shot here (The Nun, Dragon Heart, Ghost Rider) together with endless documentaries, commercials and little productions. 

In 2021, I joined some vloggers from USA on their show at the castle to check whether it is haunted by a ghost (as some people say) or not. What was the result of their research? Well, we’ll talk about here, during our visit :).

The next visit of the day is Alba Iulia, one of the oldest settlements on the territory of Transylvania and Romania today. With 2.000 years of history, this place is like an adventure book with many chapters: the Dacians, the Roman Legion and the Castrum, the medieval fortress, the Vauban construction of Charles VI, the Hapsburg Emperor, the union place, the coronation place… There seems to be a lot of stories but we’ll enjoy them all in a fun and relaxing way.

During our walking tour in Alba Iulia we’ll visit the Roman Catholic church, the Union Hall and the Orthodox Church (also know as the Coronation Cathedral as King Ferdinand of Romania and Queen Maria were crowned here).