Targoviste

Targoviste is a city where layers of Romanian history are visibly stacked upon one another. Serving as the capital of Wallachia for over three centuries, it was the seat of power for some of Romania's most famous rulers, including Mircea the Elder and Vlad the Impaler. The ruins of the Curtea Domnească (Princely Court) remain the city's focal point, offering a sprawling complex of medieval foundations, royal churches, and the imposing Turnul Chindiei (Chindia Tower), which provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Beyond its medieval golden age, Targoviste is a city of quiet charm, featuring tree-lined boulevards, the expansive Chindia Park with its serene lake, and a relaxed café culture. It also holds a somber place in modern history as the location of the 1989 revolution's climax. Today, it balances its profound historical significance with the everyday rhythm of a provincial Romanian city, making it a fascinating, uncrowded alternative to the country's more heavily touristed medieval towns in Transylvania.

Reasons to Visit

• Vlad the Impaler's Legacy: Walk the actual grounds where the real historical figure behind the Dracula myth ruled and built his fortifications.
• The Princely Court: Explore one of the most important medieval archaeological sites in Romania.
• Modern History: Visit the exact location of the trial and execution of the Ceaușescus, a pivotal moment in 20th-century European history.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Experience a genuine Romanian city free from the heavy commercialization found in major tourist hubs.
• Affordability: Enjoy high-quality local food, cheap transportation, and low entrance fees.

Things to Avoid

• Skipping the Museums: Don't just look at the ruins from the outside; the Museum of Printing and Old Romanian Books is highly unique and worth the small entry fee.
• Relying Solely on Cards: Avoid traveling without cash, as smaller vendors and local transport often require Romanian Lei.
• Disrespecting Historical Sites: Be mindful when visiting the execution site of the 1989 revolution, as it remains a sensitive topic for many locals.

Local Transportation Tips

Targoviste is highly walkable, and most visitors will not need public transport to navigate the city center and main historical sites. For longer distances, local buses are available and very inexpensive. Taxis are plentiful and cheap, but always ensure the meter is running. If you are arriving from Bucharest, trains and private minibuses (maxitaxis) run frequently and drop you off within walking distance of the city center.

Travel Etiquette

• Greetings: A polite 'Bună ziua' (Good day) is expected when entering small shops or interacting with staff.
• Tipping: Tipping around 10% in restaurants is customary if the service was good.
• Dress Code: Casual wear is perfectly acceptable, but modest dress (covering shoulders and knees) is appreciated if you plan to enter active Orthodox churches or monasteries.

Recommended Age Group

Targoviste offers a mix of open parks, medieval ruins, and deep historical narratives, making it suitable for various age groups.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While Chindia Park is great for strollers, the medieval ruins and cobblestone paths around the Princely Court can be difficult to navigate with a pram.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children usually love climbing the Chindia Tower, exploring the open ruins of the old castle, and walking around the lake in the park.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The dark, fascinating history of Vlad the Impaler and the dramatic events of the 1989 revolution provide highly engaging educational experiences.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Perfect for history enthusiasts, budget travelers, and those looking to experience authentic Romanian culture away from massive crowds.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The city center is relatively flat and walkable. However, climbing the Chindia Tower involves steep, narrow stairs which may be challenging.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Mobility: The city center and Chindia Park are generally flat and paved, making them accessible for wheelchair users.
• Attractions: The Princely Court ruins have uneven ground and cobblestones, which can be challenging. The Chindia Tower is not wheelchair accessible due to its narrow, spiral staircase.
• Transport: Accessible public transport is limited; it is advisable to arrange private, accessible transportation if needed.

Did You Know?

Targoviste was the site where the first book in Wallachia was printed in 1508. The city played a crucial role in the cultural and spiritual development of the region, hosting a major printing press that produced religious texts in Slavonic and later in Romanian.

Cool Statistics

• Capital Era: Targoviste served as the capital of Wallachia from 1396 to 1714.
• Tower Height: The Chindia Tower stands 27 meters (89 feet) tall and has 122 steps to the top.
• Distance to Bucharest: Only 80 kilometers, making it one of the most accessible historical day trips from the capital.
• Revolution Date: The trial and execution of Nicolae and Elena Ceaușescu took place here on December 25, 1989.