Poenari Castle: Dracula's main Fortress | Romania

Описание: The Poenari Castle (Cetatea Poenari) is located near the town of Arefu in Argeș County, Romania. It was initially constructed in the 13th century as a stronghold to guard the region against invading forces. The castle gained significant prominence during the 15th century when Vlad III, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad Dracula, chose it as one of his main fortresses.

Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Tepes), a figure infamous for his brutal methods of punishing his enemies, used Poenari Castle as a defensive stronghold against the Ottoman Empire's expansion into the region. The castle's strategic position atop a steep cliff made it difficult for attackers to breach its defenses. Vlad was known to impale his enemies on spikes, a gruesome act that contributed to his fearsome reputation and the Dracula legend.

However, the castle suffered damage during various conflicts and was ultimately abandoned in the 16th century. It fell into ruins over time and was largely forgotten until the 20th century when efforts to restore and preserve the site were initiated. Visitors can now explore the castle's remains, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provide a glimpse into its historical significance.

Reaching the Poenari Castle requires climbing around 1,480 steps, making the visit a bit of an adventure. The castle's association with Vlad the Impaler and the Dracula legend has led to its popularity among tourists interested in history, medieval architecture, and the mysterious allure of the Dracula tale.

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