The city of Targoviste played a major role throughout Romanian history, for a time being capital city of the Wallachian voivodship, but for most tourists it is much more interesting due to it's connection to a major, mysterious and controversial figure of Romanian history : Vlad Tepes. Although his connection to the myth of Dracula doesn't really stand, there are many who come here to discover new information about his life, exploits and defeats. And when could one find all of these than at the Princely Court in Targoviste, the place where he actually ruled at one time, in 1456. It is here, legend says, that Vlad punished a great number of his enemies and opponents by impaling them onto stakes, after inviting them to a trap feast on Easter Sunday.
The Princely Court is without a doubt the most important and popular tourist attraction in Targoviste, very well preserved and conserving some important artefacts, objects and documents in the museum. But the center of interest is certainly Turnul Chindiei, which could be translated as the Sunset Tower. Other historians say that the name comes from an old game, Chindia, which was played on official occasions - parties, coronations, victories - at the Princely Court. Whatever the origin of the name might be, this tall and massive tower, part of the Princely Court, is a sight to remember. Very well kept and restored, actually the symbol of Targoviste, it is 27 meters tall and has a diameter of 9 meters, more than enough to withstand most attacks in it's time. Then, this tower built in the shape of a cillinder was used for scouting the surroundings of the city. In 1847 - 1851 it was completely restored by Gheorghe Bibescu, who gave it it's current aspect. Unfortunatelly, the earthquakes that followed in the 20th century severely damaged the tower, which is now in need of rather serious renovations.
A hystorical landmark, Turnul Chindiei now hosts an exhibition of documents, objects and weapons that tell the story of Vlad's life, the feared leader that had the courage to stand up against the Ottoman hordes, who lost and regained his throne a few times, and who created a powerful legend, although it is now much more a commercial endeavour. Once on top of the tower, you can use the occasion to take several pictures of Targoviste, as the view is breathtaking.
Also, you can find here, both in the Princely Court and in the city several places of worship, the first being the Princely Church, built in the 16th century for the rulers who succedeed Vlad Tepes. Inside, you cand admire several old icons, all beautiful examples of religious art, as well as the frescoes that adorn the interior walls. Another two important monasteries in Targoviste ar the Selea Monastery, built in the 17th century and the Dealu Monastery, where one can also find the resting place of the head of Micheal the Brave, the one responsible for the first Union of Romania. Also, these places and impressive due to their works of religious art, their peace and quiet and their fascinating history.
Photo : wikipedia.org
2007-11-30
