About this experience
To learn the authentic history of the founding of Romania, about the people and events that influenced the country's development, it is necessary to go on a tour to Peles Castle. This castle in the town of Sinaia is admired even by Parisians and St. Petersburg residents who are spoiled by beauties and sights.
"In some distance from the village, respectfully standing aside, it shoots its towers amid the beautiful mountains. In its melancholic tranquility, there is neither boredom nor bitterness, but there is energy and elegance." This poetic characterization by Gustave Flaubert, who depicted Chateau de Chillon, can rightly be applied to Peles Castle.
Program
The castle is associated with an exciting story of the creation of the independent kingdom of Romania, which I will tell you. Moreover, here you will understand that discovering the culture and mentality of the local residents is no less fascinating than reading about adventures in the novel "Dracula."
Just think of this episode: in order to ascend the throne, the future King Carol I traveled from Prussia to his new homeland incognito, disguised as a steward. This monarch, who ruled for 48 years, created a nation during the war and became the inspiration for the project of the magnificent palace—a masterpiece of engineering and architectural thought of the 19th century—in times of peace.
You will see how each room, each exhibit in the castle reflects the characteristics of the two royal figures: Carol I—a warrior and a carpenter, and his wife, Queen Elisabeth—a writer, artist, and patron of the arts. Austerity was foreign to the castle owners: what could they do—the situation required living like royalty. Outstanding personalities of that time worked on the decoration. Just one name is worth mentioning: Gustav Klimt!
One of the largest collections of weapons in Europe—the king collected it, the richest library, porcelain, paintings, furniture, gold and silver items, carpets, and tapestries. It is impossible to take your eyes off the numerous stained glass windows and wooden latticework. As one experienced curator said: "Each item holds its own history, it has its own character. The main thing is to contain numerous memories that these ancient objects can share."
Carol I called the palace "the cradle of the dynasty, the cradle of the nation." Important historical meetings and events took place here, which I will talk about.
Organizational Details
Tour Itinerary
- The tour starts in the town of Sinaia (44 km from Brasov and 122 km from Bucharest) or in Brasov
- If you are traveling without a car, you can reach Sinaia from Brasov or Bucharest by train. The ticket price is 21-45 lei (5-10 euros). I will meet you at the station in Sinaia.
Additional Expenses
- Travelers pay for the guide's ticket from Brasov and back to Brasov. From the station to the palace, which is located high in the mountains, you can take a taxi—20 lei (about 4 euros).
- Entrance tickets to the palace: 50 lei (10 euros) – (one floor) or 100 lei (two floors). Payment in cash, in lei. The tour guide enters the palace for free.
- Tour to Pelisor Castle or monastery: 10 euros per group
