A Ruler of Law and Order
Vlad’s reign was defined by his obsession with honesty and order. In a time of corruption, he implemented laws so strict that, according to legend, a golden cup could be left at a public fountain and no one would dare to steal it.
- The "Impaler" Sobriquet: The name Țepeș comes from his preferred method of execution. While brutal, it was a psychological warfare tactic used to deter enemies and criminals alike.
- Justice for All: He didn't just target external enemies; he famously punished corrupt boyars (nobles) who weakened the state, aiming to create a centralized and stable country.
A historical illustration of Vlad the Impaler standing with authority in front of a medieval fortress, with guards bringing a captive for justice at sunset.
One of the most famous episodes in European military history is the Night Attack at Târgoviște (1462).
- The Context: Facing a massive army led by Sultan Mehmed II (the conqueror of Constantinople), Vlad used guerrilla tactics.
- The Bold Move: He and a small group of soldiers disguised themselves as Ottomans, entered the enemy camp at night, and attempted to assassinate the Sultan to create total chaos.
- The Result: Though the Sultan survived, the sheer terror of the attack and the sight of the "Forest of the Impaled" forced the Ottoman army to retreat.
The transition from the historical Vlad to the fictional Dracula happened centuries later, but the real man was a complex figure—a brilliant commander and a defender of his homeland who sacrificed everything for the survival of Wallachia.
FAQ: Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Țepeș)
1. Is Vlad Țepeș the same person as Dracula?
The historical Vlad was the inspiration for Bram Stoker's character, but the real Vlad was not a vampire. The name "Dracula" actually comes from his father, Vlad Dracul, who was a member of the Order of the Dragon (Draco in Latin).
2. Where can I see his real castle?
While Bran Castle is often associated with him for tourism, his true fortress and stronghold was Poenari Citadel (see more). You have to climb 1,480 steps to reach it, but the view of the Argeș River is breathtaking.
3. Was he really as cruel as the stories say?
He lived in a very violent era. While his punishments were indeed harsh, many historians see them as a desperate but effective way to maintain order and defend a small country against a superpower.
4. Where is he buried?
Traditional belief says his remains are at Snagov Monastery, located on an island near Bucharest, though this remains a subject of archaeological debate and mystery.
