Located in the Romanian town of Sinaia, Peles Castle (Castelul Peleș) is a stunning example of architecture in the Carpathian Mountains. It was constructed in the late 19th century by King Carol I, with a mix of medieval and baroque elements. Visitors can explore the castle’s 160 rooms, each decorated with unique furnishings and artwork. One of the most impressive features of the castle is its grand façade, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
Getting to Peles Castle is an adventure in itself. Visitors can take the cable car up to the mountain, which is named after the biblical Mount Sinai, and enjoy stunning views along the way. The town of Sinaia itself is also worth exploring, with beautiful churches, monasteries, and parks.
For food lovers, Sinaia is a great destination. Visitors can indulge in local specialities like bear steak. The area is also great for hiking, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the sound of wolves howling in the distance.
Peles Castle is also surrounded by public grounds, offering panoramic views of the castle and its surroundings. It’s a great place for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Interestingly, the castle was built at the request of King Carol I, who wanted to create a summer retreat for himself and his family. It was designed by German architect Johannes Schultz and was completed in 1883. The castle’s interior reflects the eclectic tastes of the king and his family, with a mix of styles from around the world.
The castle was a favourite residence of the Romanian royal family until the monarchy was abolished in 1947. It was then opened to the public as a museum, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique travel experience, Sinaia and Peles Castle offer a wonderful destination to explore.
Technical Details
Camera: Canon EOS 500D
Lens: Canon EF-S 10-22mm @ 18mm
ISO: 100
Exposures: 3 (-2, 0, +2)
Aperture: 6.7
Exposure time (middle): 1/500s
Tripod: Manfrotto 190CXPRO4
Size: 12.3 MPx
Date: Taken in April 2013
Location: In front of the Peleș Castle near Sinaia
Software: Lightroom 5.2, Photoshop CS6, Photomatix Pro