Myths & Misconceptions

For many, the mention of Transylvania conjures images of dark castles and blood-thirsty creatures. And while a real military figure named Vlad Dracula was born in the region (pictured) 600 years ago and twice defeated the powerful Ottoman army shortly after the fall of Constantinople in 1453, he was nothing like the icon that bears his name today.

Still, Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula and later Hollywood portrayals have cast a somber shadow over the true Transylvania.

Visitors who know better find only peaceful villages and warm people during their stay. The Irish Times describes it best, “The real Transylvania is outstandingly beautiful, its idyllic landscapes at total variance with its popular fictional image… it brings… fairy tales to mind.”