Corvin Castle is on a list of the seven wonders of Romania. Built in 1446 in Renaissance-Gothic style, it looks like something straight out of a fairytale. The castle was founded by the Hungarian military leader of Romanian descent John Hunyadi. The structure that was in place of Corvin Castle was initially given to John Hunyadi's father, Voyk by Sigismund, king of Hungary. After John Hunyadi died, the castle became neglected.
The castle is located atop a rocky hill with bridge access. It contains three large areas: the Knight’s Hall used for feasts, the Diet Hall used for receptions, and the stairway. Circular and rectangular towers were constructed for military purposes. Some of them though served as prisons. In the 17th century, the castle underwent reconstruction work and some redesign. New parts were added—the Large Palace, the White Tower, and the Artillery Tower.
According to one legend, famous Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) spent seven years in the towers of Corvin Castle and went crazy. The castle has been featured in many movies and TV programmes as well as in the video game Age of Empires II HD The Forgotten.
The Castle is open daily, but the opening hours depend on the season. Also, the ticket prices vary from 20 lei in winter to 30 lei in summer.
Practical info
What is the location of Corvin Castle, and how can it be accessed?
Corvin Castle is located in Romanian Transylvania on top of a rocky hill accessible through a bridge. Public transport or a car can be used to reach the castle from nearby major cities. The area can also be reached from Timișoara airport, where regular train and bus services are available. Show more
What were the key sections of Corvin Castle and their intended functions?
The castle consisted of three major areas: The Knight's Hall served as a location for festivities and social events, and the Diet Hall was used for receptions with foreign ambassadors or allies. Lastly, the stairway offered remarkable access to the rooms inside the castle to impress guests. Show more
What were the purposes of the circular and rectangular towers in Corvin Castle's design?
The circular and rectangular towers of Corvin Castle were originally constructed for military purposes and were later employed as prison quarters in the following centuries. Today, they attract many visitors and provide stunning viewpoints for photographs of the castle and the surrounding natural scenery. Show more
Which noble families contributed to the 17th-century reconstruction of Corvin Castle?
The castle saw ownership and usage by several aristocratic families while undergoing reconstruction in the seventeenth century. The Hallers, Kendeffys, Bethlens, and Wesselenyis families all added their unique elements to the castle's design. These designs can still be witnessed in the current structure of the castle. Show more
