These Historic Castles Bring Fairytales To Life
These Historic Castles Bring Fairytales To Life
You don't need to be part of a royal family to enjoy what the world's palaces have to offer.
These Historic Castles Bring Fairytales To Life
These Historic Castles Bring Fairytales To Life
Bran Castle, Romania
Also known as Dracula's Castle — it was featured in Bram Stoker's "Dracula" as the home of the title character — Bran Castle has stood in Romania since the 1300s. It is unknown if the real Dracula, Prince Vlad III, ever actually lived there. The castle is now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area.
Blarney Castle, Ireland
Visitors flock to Blarney Castle in Cork, Ireland to kiss the fabled Blarney Stone, which is said to be the key to the gift of eloquence.
Heidelberg Palace, Germany
A million visitors per year trek to Heidelberg Palace in Germany to take in stunning views of the Romantic-style castle that was once lauded as the "eighth wonder of the world."
Hearst Castle, United States
Although the Hearst Castle in California lacks the history and royal affiliation of other castles, the palatial estate built by William Randolph Hearst in 1947 epitomizes glamour and continually draws visitors with its 165 rooms.
Arg-e Bam, Iran
Arg-e Bam in Iran may not resemble traditional castles, but the citadel was once the largest Adobe structure in the world and dates back to 500 B.C. And although it was damaged in an earthquake in 2003, it is recognized as a UNESCO Heritage Site, and still draws plenty of visitors each year.
You don't need to be part of a royal family to enjoy what the world's palaces have to offer.