Poenari Castle (Cetatea Poenari)

Perched on a mountain cliff overlooking the Arges River, Poenari Castle (Cetatea Poenari) is steeped in history and legend. Originally constructed in the 13th century, the castle gained notoriety under the control of Vlad the Impaler in the 15th century, who is often cited as the inspiration for the fictional Dracula. According to local lore, Vlad’s first wife chose to end her life by leaping from the castle walls into the river, which now bears the name Lady’s River. The castle was abandoned and partially destroyed by an earthquake in the 19th century, leaving it in ruins until 1970 when the Romanian government restored access, constructing over 1,400 steps and adding walkways and handrails. Today, visitors can climb these steps to explore the historic site, immersing themselves in the castle’s rich and eerie past.