Peles Castle is famed for its breathtaking beauty, but its most fascinating feature is that it was the first castle in Europe to be fully powered by electricity from its own plant. This incredible feat of 19th-century engineering is just one of many secrets held within the walls of this former royal summer residence, a place filled with innovation, art, and history.
A Technological Marvel of Its Time
When construction began in 1873, King Carol I envisioned a residence that was not only beautiful but also thoroughly modern. The result was a palace packed with advanced technology that was unheard of in a royal residence at the time.
- Electricity Pioneer: The castle's own power plant was operational from 1884, making it the first in Europe to have complete electrical lighting.
- Central Heating: A central heating system was installed in 1897, meaning the ornate fireplaces in its 170+ rooms were purely decorative.
- Central Vacuum System: The castle was equipped with a central vacuum cleaner, another cutting-edge convenience for the era.
- Mechanical Sky: The magnificent glass ceiling in the main hall is retractable, operated by an electric motor to reveal the sky above.
- Royal Elevator: A small personal elevator was installed for the royal family.
A Truly International Effort
The construction of Peles Castle was a pan-European project, bringing together craftsmen and materials from across the continent. Queen Elisabeth noted in her journal the diverse nationalities involved: "Italians were masons, Romanians were building terraces... Albanians and Greeks worked in stone, Germans and Hungarians were carpenters. Turks were burning brick. Engineers were Polish and the stone carvers were Czech." This collaboration of cultures is reflected in the castle's eclectic and harmonious design.
Secrets and Surprises in Every Room
Beyond its technology, the castle's interior is a treasure trove of art and secrets. It boasts over 170 rooms, many decorated in distinct international themes like a Turkish Salon and a Moorish Hall. The Royal Library contains a secret door hidden behind a bookshelf, allowing the king direct access to his suite. The Armoury houses a formidable collection of over 4,000 pieces of European and Oriental weaponry from the 15th to 19th centuries.
Hollywood in the Carpathians
The fairytale setting of Peles Castle has not gone unnoticed by filmmakers. Its stunning architecture and romantic mountain backdrop have served as a location for several popular films. It has appeared in Hallmark's "A Princess for Christmas" (2011) and Netflix's hit movie series "A Christmas Prince" (2017).
How a Fungus Saved the Castle
During Romania's communist era, dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu was known for altering historic buildings. However, he rarely visited Peles. Curators cleverly protected the castle by spreading a rumour that the woodwork was infested with a dangerous fungus that could harm human health. The story, though a ruse, successfully deterred the Ceaușescus and helped preserve the castle's original interiors.
Frequently asked questions
How much did Peles Castle cost to build?
The construction of Peles Castle between 1875 and 1914 cost an estimated 16 million Romanian lei in gold, which is equivalent to approximately $120 million US dollars today.
How many rooms does Peles Castle have?
Peles Castle has over 170 rooms and 30 bathrooms, spread across a floor plan of 3,200 square metres (34,000 sq ft).
Was Peles Castle the first to have electricity?
Yes, Peles was the first castle in Europe to be fully lit by electricity, generated by its own power plant on the estate grounds.
Who owns Peles Castle today?
After being seized by the communist regime, the castle was returned to the Romanian Royal Family in 2007. It is currently leased by the royal family to the Romanian state and operates as a public museum.
Ready to witness this marvel of technology and art for yourself? You can explore the opulent rooms and stunning grounds when you book tickets in advance to secure your visit.