Dracula’s Enclave Unveiled: Private Castle-Museum Emerges in Arefu, Argeș County

Tourists are immersed in an authentic atmosphere from the reign of Vlad the Impaler through the castle’s decorations, walls crafted from stone and painted brick by local artisans, including those from Bihor and Harghita. Objects depicting life in those times are showcased in the museum, with the Throne Room displaying life-sized figures of Vlad the Impaler and his nobles. Two projections, one specifically designed for children, unveil aspects of the ruler’s life.

The museum currently hosts the painting exhibition of master artist Valentin Tănase and will feature itinerant exhibitions by Romanian artists. On the Ramparts, visitors can use a telescope to view Poenari Citadel and the mountainous surroundings, along with a ball-firing cannon and life-sized soldiers.

“We strive to provide visitors with a unique museum experience, aiming for their visit to be like a history lesson about the Romanian ruler, the Dracula legend. It has been a substantial investment, not only in terms of money but also in the effort to find craftsmen capable of faithfully reproducing a castle, to source suitable materials, and to adhere to pandemic restrictions since the construction site opened before February 2020. We stopped keeping track around 500-600,000 euros because we realized that the amounts were not crucial; rather, it was our desire to offer tourists a pleasant way to spend time when they visit the area,” adds Cristina Stanciu.

The entrance fee to the castle is 30 lei per person or 20 lei for groups of more than 10 children. The castle opened on December 1, with the hosts aiming to give guests the opportunity to rediscover one of the most well-known Romanian rulers, Vlad the Impaler, on National Day. This includes stories told by historians and recorded testimonies, costumes, the atmosphere created within the dedicated castle, as well as Romanian dishes and drinks.