Here is the path up to the castle.
Once we got up there the views were outstanding.
The guide told us that it was used as a military castle for five hundred years starting in the 14th century. It was given to Queen Victoria's granddaughter who restored it and ended up becoming the Queen of Romania. Vlad the Impaler (governor of who the Dracula legend was about stayed there. He was known from his torture techniques. If you want to read more click this link > http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vlad_the_impaler. All in all - no real Dracula. Betcha didn't know that!!! Here is the entrance to the castle.
Had to get some happy snaps of Ben. He thought it might be his last....
The inner courtyard.
Where the Queen of Romania stayed.
Dark hallways!!! MUUUAHAHAHAHA!!!
This is our travel agent and guide, Jiri, who we have all come to know and love. He is hilarious without even trying. And loves to take pictures!!
So there you have it!
Aaaactually, Dracula is based on several historical figures, all crazy. But Vlad the Impaler is one of the big ones. I think Stoker based Dracula's appearance on Vlad? I can't remember exactly, but we learned about it in Gothic and Horror Literature. Beautiful pictures, as always.
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