A Gift of Love and Liberty
Built between 1899 and 1902 by King Carol I for his nephew and heir, the future King Ferdinand, and his wife, Queen Marie, Pelișor was never meant to be a formal palace. It was designed as a "home"—a place where the royal couple could escape the rigid etiquette of the Great Court.
A realistic aerial view of Pelișor Castle in Sinaia, Romania, showcasing its unique Art Nouveau and half-timbered architecture. The castle is surrounded by a dense forest in autumn colors with the Bucegi Mountains in the background under a warm sunset light. A small group of visitors is seen on the stone pathway leading to the entrance, and a wild bear is visible in the distant clearing.
The most famous part of the castle is undoubtedly the Golden Room. Queen Marie, a talented artist and a devotee of Art Nouveau, personally designed the interior.
- The Legend: Local lore says that the Queen chose to gild the walls in thistle leaves (the symbol of her Scottish homeland) to create a space that felt eternal. It is said that she wanted a room where the light never truly dies.
- The Reality: This room wasn't just for show; it was where Queen Marie breathed her last in 1938. According to her final wishes, her heart was kept here for a time before its long journey back to Balchik and finally to Bran.
- The "Naughty" Queen: Queen Marie was known for her rebellious spirit. Legends say she used to walk through the surrounding forests alone at dawn, dressed in traditional Romanian peasant clothing, much to the dismay of the security of that time.
- The Ghostly Artist: Some staff and visitors have claimed to feel a "creative energy" or see a faint, elegant shadow in the Queen’s painting studio. Whether it’s the wind through the pines or the Queen’s spirit checking on her Art Nouveau masterpieces, the atmosphere is undeniably magical.
- Unpredictable Neighbors: While the castle feels like a fairytale, remember that it sits in the heart of nature. It’s not uncommon for wild bears to wander near the estate boundaries at dusk—a modern reminder that these mountains remain as wild and unpredictable as they were a century ago.
Unlike the heavy, dark wood of Peles, Pelișor is bright, colorful, and deeply personal. It’s a rare chance to see how a Queen lived, dreamt, and decorated. From the Byzantine-inspired furniture to the stained glass windows, every corner tells a story of a woman who was "more than a Queen—she was an icon."
Planning your visit? Make sure to check the seasonal hours, as the mountain weather can change as quickly as the moods of the forest.
A 4K video wich present Pelisor Castle (Castelul Pelisor) interior/exterior and its history. don't forget to activate subtitles in the player:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between Peles and Pelișor?
While both are on the same royal estate, Peles is the grand, Neo-Renaissance palace used for official state business. Pelișor is smaller, built in the Art Nouveau style, and served as the private residence for King Ferdinand and Queen Marie. Think of Peles as the "office" and Pelișor as the "home."
2. How long does a visit take?
A standard tour of Pelișor takes about 45 to 60 minutes. If you plan on visiting both castles and walking the grounds, we recommend carving out at least 3 hours for the full experience.
3. Can I take photos inside?
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but there is usually an additional fee (photography pass) to be paid at the entrance. Please note that professional equipment and flash are typically restricted to preserve the delicate textiles and gold leaf.
4. Is there a dress code?
There is no formal dress code, but we recommend comfortable walking shoes. The path from the parking area to the castle is an incline, and the floors inside are historic—you may be asked to wear protective overshoes provided by the museum.
5. Is it safe to walk between the castles?
Yes, the pathways are well-paved and beautiful. However, as Pelișor is tucked closer to the forest line, stay on the designated paths. As we always remind our guests, wild animals are unpredictable; while sightings are rare during busy hours, it is best to avoid wandering into the deep woods at dawn or dusk.
6. When is the best time to visit?
Autumn is spectacular for the foliage, but mid-week mornings are best if you want to avoid the crowds. Check the official website before coming, as the castle usually closes for a month every year (typically in November) for conservation.
