Entry no. 7: Dracula's Princely Court #visitromania

One of the most famous personalities in the world from Romania is Dracula. He inspired tens and hundreds of writers, film directors and artists to tell a story through their creations.

Not everybody knows that Dracula was a real Prince in Wallachia in 15th century. Many tourists come to Romania to visit the Bran Castle, due to Bram Stoker's book. Well, Vlad the Impaler had almost nothing to do with the history of this castle. The country was fragmented in regions and different regions were under control of foreing powers.

One of the most important places in Vlad's ruling was, at the time, the capital of Wallachia, Târgoviște. It's the last capital before it was moved at Bucharest.

Târgoviște is the Princely Court from where Vlad Dracula ruled three times, among other princes.
The name Impaler was given to him not because he was a vampire, but because that was his method of execution, through impaling the enemies.
He is also known by Dracula, after his father, Vlad Dracul. The latter was a member of the Dragon's Order, similar to the Teutonic Knights Order. His son continued the tradition.

Chindia's Tower (seen above) was build during Vlad's ruling.
The photo below was taken from the top of the tower. You can see the foundation of a church.