Is Transylvania a real place? Yes, it is! After spending two weeks exploring this often-overlooked corner of Europe, I want to demystify Transylvania and help you discover its real-world charm.
Transylvania is a name that conjures images of howling wolves, misty mountains, and the infamous Count Dracula. It’s a place that often blurs the line between myth and reality. But what’s the truth behind this region steeped in legend?
Read on to find out! In this post, I’ll peel back the layers of myth to reveal the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines this unique region.
Where is Transylvania?
Located in the heart of central Romania, Transylvania is a region of unparalleled natural beauty. Bordered by the majestic Carpathian Mountains, it’s often referred to as “the land beyond the forest”.
This picturesque landscape is a tapestry of rolling hills, dense forests, and meandering rivers. It’s a serene backdrop to a place that’s vastly different from the eerie setting often depicted in popular culture.
If you’re looking to discover somewhere slightly off-the-beaten-track, with a lot to offer, I can highly recommend a trip to Transylvania.
Transylvania’s Association with Vampires and Dracula
Transylvania’s association with vampires, especially Dracula, is a tale woven from a mixture of historical facts and literary fiction.
Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula immortalized Transylvania as a realm of supernatural fascination. However, the region’s association with vampire folklore predates Stoker’s iconic work.
Local folklore and superstitions about creatures of the night have long been part of Transylvania’s cultural tapestry.
The real-life figure Vlad the Impaler, known for his brutal methods of punishment, further cemented this connection, although his actual ties to the region are often exaggerated.
Transylvania in History and Literature
Transylvania’s history is as rich and complex as the myths that surround it. These stories have helped shape the region’s enigmatic reputation.
The Historical Background of Transylvania
Transylvania has long been a melting pot of ethnicities, including Romanians, Hungarians, Saxons, and Székelys. Each group has left a tangible mark.
The region’s strategic location in the central Balkans made it a coveted prize for various empires and kingdoms, contributing to its rich and tumultuous history.
Transylvania has been land of significant historical importance throughout the ages, from its inclusion in the Roman Empire’s sphere of influence to its time under Hungarian rule and later as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula and Its Impact on Transylvania’s Image
Bram Stoker’s Dracula is more than just an iconic work of fiction. It’s a cultural phenomenon that has cemented Transylvania’s image with the legend of vampires.
Stoker’s novel, while not the first to talk about vampires, was instrumental in shaping the modern perception of Transylvania and its supposed inhabitants.
Interestingly, Stoker never actually visited Transylvania. His vivid descriptions have influenced how the world imagines this region. However, Stoker’s Transylvania, shrouded in mystery and darkness, is a world away from the real-life Transylvania.
Vlad the Impaler: The Real-Life Inspiration Behind Dracula
Vlad III, known as Vlad the Impaler, is often cited as the inspiration for Count Dracula. A 15th-century prince of Wallachia, Vlad was notorious for his cruel methods of punishment, most famously impalement.
His reputation for brutality and his nickname “Dracula”, meaning “son of the dragon,” (or even “son of the devil” on some translations) contributed to the vampire legend.
Vlad’s reign in Wallachia, a region south of Transylvania, was marked by constant warfare. However, while he was a fierce ruler, the real-life Dracula (probably) wasn’t a bloodthirsty vampire!
Transylvania in Popular Culture
From horror movies to video games, Transylvania has become synonymous with Gothic aesthetics and thrilling, spooky storytelling.
Its eerie ambiance and rich history continue to serve as captivating backdrops, inspiring countless works of fiction, and fueling the fascination surrounding this enigmatic land.
However, this portrayal, while entertaining, is a dramatic departure from reality. Real-life Transylvania is a land of picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and warm, welcoming people.
It’s a place where history and modernity coexist, offering a unique experience far removed from the clichéd images of popular fiction.
Although, in fairness, there are plenty of gothic castles and towers dotted around!
Real-Life Transylvania Today: Culture, History & Natural Beauty
Today, the real Transylvania is a vibrant region that offers a unique blend of cultural heritage, historical significance, and natural beauty.
Modern-Day Transylvania: Culture and Language
Transylvania today is a melting pot of cultures and languages, reflecting its diverse historical influences.
The region is home to a significant Hungarian minority, particularly in western Transylvania, where Hungarian is widely spoken alongside Romanian.
This cultural diversity is evident in the region’s architecture, cuisine, and festivals, creating a rich blend of traditions and customs.
The influence of the Saxons and Székelys also continues to be a prominent feature in Transylvania’s cultural landscape.
The Saxon Legacy in Transylvania
The Saxons, who arrived in Transylvania in the 12th century, also left a significant mark on the region. They built fortified churches and towns, many of which are still standing today.
The picturesque town of Sighișoara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination. I spent a few days here exploring the town’s beautiful churches and well-preserved medieval towers.
Transylvania’s Natural Beauty and Landscape
Transylvania is a region of breathtaking natural beauty and an amazing destination for lovers of the great outdoors.
The densely forested Carpathian Mountains offer a vast playground for all manners of adventurous activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and camping.
The epic Transfăgărășan highway is one of the most incredible roads I’ve ever driven on. If you ever get the chance to take a road trip through Romania, be sure to include this on your itinerary!
The region’s landscape is a paradise for hikers too, with countless trails winding through picturesque hills and valleys.
The rich biodiversity of this area is another bonus, with populations of brown bears, wolves, and lynx all adding to its allure.
Exploring Transylvania’s Castles and Medieval Towns
Transylvania is dotted with countless castles, fortified churches, and medieval towns, each with its own unique history and appeal.
Here are some of my favourites:
Bran Castle: Beyond the Dracula Myth
Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula legend, is one of the most famous locations in Transylvania.
Although the real-life Vlad the Impaler never actually set foot in this castle, it’s still an incredibly atmospheric and worthwhile place to visit.
The Black Church: A Gothic Masterpiece
In the city of Brasov you’ll find the Black Church (or Biserica Neagră), a striking example of Gothic religious architecture.
Its darkened exterior, a result of a historic fire, contrasts with its richly decorated interior, showcasing Transylvania’s diverse architectural heritage.
Sighișoara: Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler
The medieval town of Sighișoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best-preserved and most atmospheric medieval towns I’ve ever visited.
Sighișoara is famous for its gorgeous historic centre. It’s also believed to have been the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s famous character, Count Dracula.
One of the main attractions in Sighisoara is the Clock Tower, a symbol of the town. Climbing up the tower offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area and the chance to see the old clock mechanism in action.
The Sighisoara Clock Tower also houses the History Museum of Sighisoara, where you can learn about the town’s fascinating history.
Walking through the cobbled streets of Sighisoara’s old town feels like stepping back in time. The colourful houses with their unique architecture, adorned with intricate details, are incredibly picturesque.
Peleș Castle: Neo-Renaissance Splendour
Peleș Castle, once a royal summer residence, is another architectural jewel in Transylvania. Its lavish interiors and stunning gardens offer a glimpse into the opulent lives of Romania’s past rulers.
Cultural Experiences: Food, Drink, and Local Customs
The cuisine of Transylvania is hearty and delicious, especially when it’s cold outside!
Visit any local restaurant or bistro and you’ll be able to sample various traditional specialities. Some of my favourites include sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mamaliga (cornmeal polenta), and tochitura (pork stew).
If you like strong spirits, I definitely recommend trying the local brandy, palincă (although not on an empty stomach!). It’s a traditional tipple that has been around for centuries, and many people in Transylvania make their own.
Debunking Another Myth About Transylvania
Another myth surrounding Transylvania is its supposed isolation from the rest of the world.
In fact, thanks to Romania’s relatively well-developed infrastructure and transport network, most of Transylvania is fairly easy to access.
There are various ways to get to Transylvania. When I visited, I took the train from Budapest to Timisoara (where I was attending a friend’s wedding) and then hired a car from there.
But you could also fly into one of Transylvania’s international airports, such as Cluj-Napoca (CLJ), Sibiu (SBZ), or Brasov (GHV). All of these places have good public bus connections, although hiring a car is the most convenient option.
Another option is to fly to the Romanian capital Bucharest (several low-cost airlines fly here from all over Europe) and hire a car from there.
Click here to search for the cheapest flights to Transylvania.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about what Transylvania is really like.
Is Transylvania a real place?
Yes, Transylvania is a real place. It’s an important region in central Romania known for its scenic beauty, picturesque towns, and rich history. A far cry from the fictional land often depicted in vampire lore.
Where is Transylvania located?
Transylvania is located in central Romania, bordered by the Carpathian Mountains. It encompasses a large area with a diverse range of landscapes including soaring mountains, fertile valleys, thick forests, and medieval towns.
Can you visit Dracula’s Castle?
Yes – Bran Castle, often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle”, is a popular tourist attraction in Transylvania. While its connection to the Dracula legend is tenuous, the castle is a significant historical site and a great place to visit.
What is Transylvania famous for?
Transylvania is famous for its medieval castles, fortified churches, and rich cultural heritage. It’s also known for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains, and its association with the Dracula legend.
Final Thoughts: The Real Transylvania
While often shrouded in sinister myths and legends, Transylvania does not actually have a real-life vampire problem.
The real Transylvania is far from the land of darkness and horror that it’s made out to be. Instead, it’s a picturesque and diverse region with a fascinating history, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty.
If you ever get the chance to visit Transylvania, I highly recommend it. It’s one of my favourite corners of Europe and a perfect alternative travel destination to discover.
