Targoviste Citadel (Chindia tower)

Mentioned in that time’s papers, ever since 1427, it is presumed that the citadel was built around 1396, when there already existed strong fortifications. For a long time Târgoviște was declared the capital of Țara Românească (Valahia). The royal court in Târgoviște is also temporary attested, even from the period during Mircea cel Bătrân’s reign, the grandfather of the future ruler of Valahia, the renowned Vlad Țepeș (famous under the name of Dracula). Later, during his time, Vlad Țepeș strengthens the walls and the fortifications of the citadel, builds the tower of Chindia, the majority of these constructions being preserved until today. However, the glory period of Wallachia’s kings’ citadel reached its peaks later, during the reign of the king Matei Basarab (1653), the founder of Snagov monastery, which will become the favorite place of pilgrimage for Vlad Țepeș and where he will find his place of rest in the end. During Matei Basarab’s reign the walls of the citadel were strengthened, there were built 10 new defense towers, 7 of these remaining preserved until our days. An incredible history with an attractive charm, the Targoviste Citadel is all blended with the enigmatic story of the legend of Dracula!