In the heart of Transylvania, amid green hills and valleys steeped in legends, stands the imposing Corvin Castle. A castle that is not only a masterpiece of Gothic architecture but also a testament to centuries of history, myths, and secrets hidden within its walls. Its captivating appearance, with tall towers and the bridge connecting the fortress to the land, is the perfect stage for tales that transcend time.
The History of Corvin Castle
The history of Corvin Castle dates back to 1409, when the castle was granted to Woyk, the father of Ioan de Hunedoara, by Sigismund of Luxembourg, King of Hungary and Croatia. However, it was in 1446 that Voivode of Transylvania, Ioan de Hunedoara (better known as John Hunyadi), began the construction of his fortress. Hunyadi decided to transform the ancient tower built by Charles I of Hungary into a princely residence. This ambitious project was completed in 1480, when the work was definitively halted, but the castle had already imprinted itself in historical memory as one of the most majestic buildings in Eastern Europe.
photo credited ( crafted-tours-romania.com )
The Gothic Architecture of the Castle
Built in a Renaissance-Gothic style, Corvin Castle is a testament to the strength and grandeur its founders wished to convey. The castle rises on a rock above the small Zlaști River, dominating the surrounding landscape. Its complex structure includes a system of fortifications, bastions, tall towers, and an inner courtyard, all adorned with elegant windows and balconies featuring intricate stone carvings.
The castle is also distinguished by the architectural innovation of its circular and rectangular towers, a feature that makes it unique in Transylvanian medieval architecture. Some of these towers, such as the Capistrano Tower, the Deserted Tower, and the Drummers' Tower, were used as prisons. The Buzdugan Tower (named after a type of mace) had purely defensive purposes and was decorated with geometric motifs.
The Legend of Vlad the Impaler and Dark Stories
The legends linked to Corvin Castle go beyond its architectural history or its defensive efforts against invaders. One of the figures that haunts the castle’s walls is that of Vlad the Impaler, the prince who inspired the character of Dracula. While there is no concrete evidence that Vlad ever resided in the castle, his connection to Transylvania has led Corvin Castle to be associated with him, a man of legendary cruelty.
According to legend, Vlad III, known for his brutal tortures and his method of execution, impalement, may have used the castle as a stronghold, perhaps even as a prison for his enemies. Popular tales recount that unfortunate prisoners were tortured and executed in horrifying ways, an atmosphere that helped give the castle an aura of mystery and terror.
Prisons and Ghost Legends
Beyond Vlad, the castle has other stories to tell, often linked to lost souls and wandering spirits. One of the most captivating legends tells of a young prisoner who, after being incarcerated in the castle, threw herself off the bridge, falling into the waters below. Her soul never found peace, and it is said that even today, her presence lingers between the towers, visible to those sensitive enough to feel her sorrow.
Another legend speaks of a knight in love with a lady who was imprisoned in the castle. To free her, the knight embarked on a dangerous journey, but once he completed his task, both mysteriously vanished. It is said that their souls are tied to the castle, wandering without ever finding rest.
The Evolution of the Castle
Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous changes and restorations. During the 16th century, no significant improvements were made, but in the 17th century, new structures were added for both aesthetic and military purposes. A new residential wing was built, and two new defensive towers were erected: the White Tower and the Artillery Tower. These additions, along with the creation of an external courtyard, marked a new phase in the life of the castle, transforming it from a simple fortress to a majestic residence.
In 2021, Corvin Castle attracted about 276,000 tourists, showcasing its continued importance as a symbol of history and mystery. Its walls not only tell of a medieval Transylvania at war but also of love stories, traditions, and legends that continue to live within its corridors.
Drawing of the castle from the mid-19th century - Source - Wikipedia
Corvin Castle is more than just a building; it is a crossroads between history and myth, a place where every stone tells a story of glory, terror, and mystery. Its legends and extraordinary architecture continue to fascinate all who visit, making every journey an unforgettable experience. If you wish to immerse yourself in one of Romania’s most captivating and mysterious tales, Corvin Castle will welcome you with its Gothic charm and timeless legends.
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