Peles Castle

A stark representative of Romania’s soaring castles and Rennaissance curves, Peles Castle does more than just appeal to your eyes. It invokes a sense of wonder that you won’t forget any time soon. The castle sits majestically on a hill near Sinaia on a medieval route. Gothic Revival architecture is most affluent here, while more than five world cultures from Florentine to Turkish breathe life in its versatile chambers and halls. The castle’s authentic, old-world charm intensifies with the cinematic backdrop provided by an exquisite section of the Romanian countryside. No wonder why Carol I, the country’s first king, fell in love with the scenery and decided to build the castle there. Today, visitors marvel at its many feats both inside and outside in guided tours.

Inside, the castle splinters into a medley of chambers, each nestling typical medieval European treasures. The grand armory has almost half of the castle’s armor collection used in war and hunting. It features axes, bows, arrows, and ornate swords. Some Oriental touches spice up the scene in the small armory. There, the glamorous Persian and Ottoman pieces are on display. Italian Rennaissance comes to life in the Florentine Room, and things take an exotic turn in the Moorish Salon with North African and Hispanic influences.

The courtyard of Peles Castle is an artistic wonderland sprinkled with life-size marble statues. Fascinatingly contrasted with the emerald blanket covering the Carpathian mountains, the white-washed garden is among the most delightful sights in the castle.