Bran Castle, a landmark in Romania, was built in 1377 at a strategic location in the Carpatian Mountains The fortress is on the Transylvanian side of the historical border with Wallachia,
Bran Castle is popularly known as "Dracula's Castle" although "Vlad the Impaler" was only one of a succession of rulers over 7 centuries
Originally built for defensive and economic reasons (toll station on a trade route), the castle was donated to Queen Maria of Romania in 1920 She restored it as a residence for the Royal Family