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Transylvania, Romania


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When one mentions Transylvania, the image that generally comes to mind is mountains at night with a full moon.  Lurking in the shadows of the nearby forest is the dreaded Count Dracula, ready to pounce on his next helpless victim.  It also brings to mind beautiful mountains, wooded valleys, high-roofed wooden churches and a very troubled history.

For many, going to Transylvania is to see Bran Castle where Vlad the Impaler was supposed to have resided, and the neighbouring area where so much of Vlad's notorious executions of innocent people occurred.

Yet Transylvania is more than just the story of Vlad the Impaler and Count Dracula.

Located in north western Romania, the region has a long history, incorporating not only its Romanian past, but also Hungarian, German and more.  Today, the Transylvania region is quickly becoming Romania's main tourist attraction.

Places of Interest

Bran Castle

No visit to Transylvania is complete without visiting Bran Castle, home of Prince Vlad. Taking the trip during dusk will send shivers down your spin as you recall not only Vlad's bloody life but also that of Count Dracula. Locals say that even now, if one passes through the woods leading to the castle, one can hear the screams of the impaled victims if one listens carefully.
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Sinaia

Not far from Bran Castle is the Royal Resort of Sinaia, made famous by King Carol 1, who built the castle of Peleş back in 1883. Today, the resort is popular with those who wish to hike the mountains or go horseriding in summer; or skiing in winter.

Sighisoara

This is one of the world's greatest medieval cities left in the world, with its buildings dating back to as early as the 12th century. The Sighisoara Citadel was built in the 12th century, is listed as a World Heritage Site. The Clock Tower was built in 1360 and includes a museum inside it with panoramic views from the top.
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Timisoara

Also known as the city of parks and gardens, as well as being Romania's third largest city, Timisoara became the symbol of freedom during the 1989 revolution when it became the first free city from Communist rule.

Transylvania International Film Festival

This year, the Transylvania International Film Festival [TIFF] will be held between May 28th and June 6 in Cluj-Napoca. Founded in 2002, TIFF has grown rapidly to be the most important film-related event in Romania and one of the most spectacular annual events in the region. Over the years, TIFF's Lifetime Achievement Award has been presented to important figures of European and worldwide cinema, including Julie Delpy, Michael Radford, Annie Girardot, Udo Kier, Vanessa Redgrave, Nicolas Roeg or Franco Nero.