Photo Essay: Inside Castle Peles

by Dave on December 21, 2010 · 7 comments

Castle Peles, or Castelul Peles, in Romanian is an incredibly opulent Neo-Renaissance castle set in Carpathian mountains near the town of Sinaia.   If you find yourself northwest of Bucharest, this is a must see.

It was a beautiful drive along the Carpathian ridge from Bucharest to Sinaia.  Peles Castle had limited parking and is one of the more touristy attractions that I visited.   It was however, well worth it.   You park near the base of the mountain and then walk approximately a half mile up a picturesque brick road.   At the end of the road you are rewarded with this magnificent looking castle as well as the awe inspiring vistas that can be seen from within the castle.

Peles Castle

View of Peles Castle observed from brick road approaching the castle.

 

Frond side of Peles Castle

Frond side of Peles Castle

Peles Castle was built for King Carol I, one of the greatest kings of modern Romania.  Construction was started in 1873 and was completed in 1914 at a modern day US cost of $120 million.   The final design was chosen for its appearance as a grand palatial alpine villa which utilized the best characteristics of several classic European designs.

Inside the castle, each room is designed in a different style, representing countries around the world.   Rooms can be seen decorated in European, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian styles.

The grand atrium

The grand atrium at the center of the castle's interior.

Pele? Castle houses one of the world’s greatest collections of medieval weaponry prominently displayed in this room.

Pele? Castle houses one of the world’s greatest collections of medieval weaponry prominently displayed in this room.

Ornate wooden ceiling in a study.

Ornate wooden ceiling in a study.

Hand crafted Chinese leather lines the upper walls of this formal reception room.

Hand crafted Chinese leather lines the upper walls of this formal reception room.

Room decorated with Asian influences.

Room decorated with Asian influences.

Formal dining room

Formal dining room

The King's room

The King's room

________

About the Author: Karl is a physicist and avid photographer who only recently decided to set out and explore the world with his camera. Catch more of his adventures at http://www.facebook.com/kbarth

About the Author:

is the author of 1573 posts on Go Backpacking.

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Categories: Features, Photos, Romania
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7 Comments

Andrew December 22, 2010 at 3:12 am

That is just absolutely stunning, thanks for sharing that. I’ve been to Europe several times and ALWAYS loved the castle tours, even the more bland ones.

Cheers,
Andrew

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Karl B December 22, 2010 at 5:27 pm

Thanks! Its one of the lesser known ones throughout Europe, but was really excited to have the opportunity to go there.

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GlobalButterfly December 22, 2010 at 3:03 pm

Wow, what an incredible castle!!!

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Karl B December 22, 2010 at 5:28 pm

Glad you enjoyed the pics!

Reply

Phil December 22, 2010 at 5:57 pm

Talk about your crown molding, wow, that place has awesome interiors. I want that black cabinet from the “asian influences” room. Love the formal dining room, I bet it smells of rich mahogany.

Reply

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