1920 - 1947
ROYAL RESIDENCE
After 1918, Transylvania became part of Greater Romania. On December 1, 1920, the inhabitants of Braşov, by unanimous decision of the City Council, led by Mayor Karl Schnell, offered Bran Castle to Queen Marie of Romania, described as "a great queen, spreading her blessing wherever she went and thus conquering, with an irresistible impetus, the hearts of all the inhabitants of the country".
The castle became the favorite residence of Queen Marie, who restored and redeveloped it for use by members of the royal family.
Regina Maria
Queen Maria of Romania was one of the most beloved sovereigns, famous for her beauty and nobility, but also for the way she transformed Bran Castle into a warm and modern residence. She brought water, electricity, an elevator and even a funicular, managing to combine medieval architecture with modern comfort. Her imagination was reflected in the gardens, art collections and the beauty of the place, which became a true royal home.
Far from luxury, the queen remained close to the people: she supported the villages around Bran, built hospitals and remained in the hearts of Romanians as the "mother of the country". The will and the letter to the people, as well as the wish that her heart remain at Stella Maris, show the deep love for Romania. Maria lived intensely and left a legacy of beauty, faith and devotion.
PRINCESS ILEANA
Princess Ileana, Queen Maria's most beloved daughter, inherited her mother's passion for Bran and Balchik. She received Bran Castle by will and, during World War II, she established the "Queen's Heart" Hospital here, where she cared for the wounded, following her mother's example. The relationship with Bran remained a bond of soul and responsibility for her.
After the abdication of King Michael in 1948, Ileana was forced into exile with her family, leaving the castle to the Romanian state. Her return in 1990, as Mother Alexandra, was deeply emotional, although she found the hospital and the little church in ruins. Until the end, Ileana kept alive the memory of Queen Maria and the connection with Bran, the defining place of her destiny.
We invite you to experience the history, myth, intrigue and magic of this wonderful place. We hope you will always carry with you the spirit that makes us love Bran castle.