The Peles Castle: A Fascinating Story of Romanian Royalty
The Peles Castle is one of the most fascinating castles in Romania. It is located in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains and has a rich history and culture. Built in the late 19th century, it served as the summer residence of the Romanian royal family until 1947.
History of The Peles Castle
The Peles Castle was commissioned by King Carol I in 1873. The king wanted to create a luxurious palace that would reflect the grandeur and prestige of the Romanian royal family. The architecture of the castle is a mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles, and it was designed by the German architect Johannes Schultz. It took seven years for the castle to be completed, and it was officially opened in 1880.
During the reign of King Carol I, the Peles Castle became a popular destination for European aristocrats and royalty. The castle was a hub of cultural activity, with regular performances by musicians, dancers, and singers. It also contained a theater, a library, and a museum.
During World War I, the castle served as a military hospital. After Romania’s independence, the castle served as the summer residence of the Romanian royal family until 1947 when the monarchy was abolished. In 1975, the castle was opened to the public as a museum.
What to See at The Peles Castle
The Peles Castle is a magnificent building with 160 rooms, each with its own unique design. The castle is divided into several wings, each with its own distinctive style. The castle also contains a library, a theater, and a museum with a collection of furniture and artwork.
When visiting the castle, the first thing you should do is take a guided tour. This is the best way to explore the castle and learn about its history. The tour will take you through each of the castle’s wings and its many magnificent rooms. You’ll also get to see the castle’s impressive collection of artwork, furniture, and other artifacts.
After the tour, you can explore the castle grounds. Here, you’ll find a beautiful park, gardens, and forests. You can also take a walk around the castle’s lake, which is surrounded by a picturesque landscape.
The castle is also home to a restaurant and a café, where you can enjoy traditional Romanian dishes and snacks. The café also serves traditional Romanian drinks, such as tuica (a spirit made from plums), and the restaurant offers a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
Visiting The Peles Castle
The Peles Castle is located in Sinaia, Romania, a small town in the Carpathian Mountains. The closest airports are located in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, both of which are about two hours away from Sinaia.
The castle is open to visitors from April to October, and tickets can be purchased from the ticket office at the entrance. The ticket also includes access to the castle grounds.
Conclusion
The Peles Castle is a beautiful and historic building with a fascinating history. It is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Romanian culture and history. The castle’s guided tours, gardens, and restaurant make it a perfect place to spend a day or two.