Targoviste Fortress: Tracing the Legacy of a Princely Court
Discover RomaniaThe city has a very rich history. It was a royal home for nearly three centuries, and the History Museum has artefacts from many populations. Targoviste Fortress is more than just a historical landmark; it's a voyage through Romania's ancient past, where stories intersect with the country's spirit. Enjoy this intriguing journey into the past, where chivalry, intrigue, and echoes of Wallachian nobility await discovery.
Historical information about the Targoviste Royal Court
In his memoirs from 1427, crusader Johann Schiltberger lists Târgoviște as Wallachia's capital, alongside Argeș. Schiltberger participated in the military expedition that resulted in defeat at Nicopolis.
Although his book was published 31 years later, it is considered that the city had defences in 1396, just like any other metropolis at the time.
The Royal Court is confirmed in internal papers during the reign of Mircea cel Bătrân, when it is described in a deed issued by his son and associate in the kingdom, Mihail I, dated 1417-1418, as "[...] the very city of my reign, Targoviste [...]". This implies that this location once housed a fortified voivodeship residence. Archaeological discoveries from the time of Mircea cel Bătrân support this theory, revealing a dwelling, the first church chapel, a curtain, and signs of a tiny wooden wall.
Targoviste was recognised as the sole capital of Wallachia by Alexandru I (Aldea) in 1431, and the walls were expanded and strengthened around half a century later. This procedure most likely happened at some point during Vlad the Impaler's rule or even during his lifetime.
There are differing perspectives on the stages of these works, but it is certain that, after the middle of the 15th century, the fortifications of the Royal Court of Targoviste became the most impressive in the region, with a defensive ditch approximately 20-24m wide and 4m deep, reinforced with wooden piers arranged diagonally in the bank.
A document dated November 17, 1476, mentions the fortress's pârcalab for the first time, implying that Târgoviște played an important military role at the time. A 20-meter-long stretch of wall was built at the end of the 15th century, complete with a watchtower.
Another wave of fortification expansion began at the end of the 16th century with voivode Petru Cercel, who increased the area inside the enclosure to around 29,000m2, the largest extent of the fortifications at the time.
During this extension, the palace was renovated and a variety of important amenities were installed, including an aqueduct that supplied water to the palace and garrison.
Matei Basarab ruled the voivodeship residence during its peak development, doubling the thickness of the walls, rebuilding the defence ditch, and constructing a new ditch with a width and depth of 3m, doubled by a wave of earth along a 5km length, over which a log palisade rose.
The stone walls were reinforced with ten rectangular bastions, and the fortress's five entry gates were reconstructed in stone. However, the fortifications were tested during the Seimen rebellion in 1653, when Matei Basarab was forced to storm the citadel.
At the High Porte's specific request, ruler Gheorghe Ghica later started the process of tearing down the palace and dismantling the voivodeship court in 1660 in an effort to remove any possible defences that might have been used against Ottoman control.
The Royal Court of Targoviste began to decline during a time of prosperity under Constantin Brâncoveanu's rule, when the defences were partially renovated and the voivodeship palace constructed and developed.
The Russo-Turkish War of 1736-1739, as well as the earthquake of 1803, seriously damaged the structures, and further fires and earthquakes contributed to the ultimate destruction of this voivodeship house.
The last major restoration and conservation efforts on the ruins occurred in 1961, when a portion of the Targoviste stronghold, royal palace, and accompanying buildings were converted into a museum and opened to the public.
Targoviste Fortress - a seat of power
The Targoviste Fortress was more than just a fortified residence. It served as the political nerve centre of Wallachia, a principality that had a significant impact on Romania's history. Within its walls, Wallachian rulers planned, negotiated and made choices that affected the lives of their subjects. The fortress also hosted the princely court, a hub of cultural and artistic activity that drew scholars, artists, and artisans from all across the region. From strategic discussions to cultural enlightenment, the stronghold served as a testing ground for Wallachian identity. Its legacy lives on as a tribute to the perseverance and inventiveness of Romania's former rulers, defining the country's story for future generations.
Chindia Tower - the legendary fortress
A key symbol of Romania's mediaeval past, the Targoviste Fortress—also referred to as the Chindia Tower—has its roots in the storied 15th century. Throughout history, this stronghold has been the valued residence of a cadre of prestigious princes, including the renowned Constantin Brâncoveanu and the fabled Vlad the Impaler, whose adventures have built a tapestry of fascination around the fortress's storied walls.
Situated in Targoviste, a mediaeval capital that predated Bucharest's ascendancy, the fortress bore witness to the shifts of power, with modest wooden fortifications at its inception until Vlad Dracul, in his bid for fortified security, initiated an ambitious expansion and modernization project. The magnificent Tower of Chindia, now a lasting symbol of the fortress's heritage, rose from the landscape during Vlad the Impaler's rule in the mid-15th century, demonstrating both architectural brilliance and strategic wisdom.
Today, the Targoviste Fortress stands as a reminder of ancient times, its aged stones silently witnessing the grandeur and violence of Romania's historical past. Visitors are invited to ascend the Tower of Chindia, where panoramic views emerge, providing glimpses into a world steeped in history and myth. Wandering around the palace's labyrinthine ruins, one discovers remnants of antiquity, while the hallowed halls of the Great Princely Church resonate with the voices of centuries past, embellished with frescoes that tell the story of Wallachian nobility.
A visit to the Targoviste Fortress is more than just a journey through time; it is a tribute to a nation's enduring spirit. As one walks through its ancient grounds, they are urged to descend into the depths of Romania's mediaeval legacy, where tales of valour and intrigue blend with echoes from bygone ages. This historic relic, located less than two hours from Bucharest's busy capital, provides a respite from the modern world—a sanctuary where historical echoes resound with everlasting meaning.
Targoviste Fortress, formerly a seat of authority for Wallachian emperors, entices avid historians and adventurers alike. Its ancient walls contain stories of political intrigue, creative genius, and a bygone age, providing a fascinating glimpse into Romania's past. The active court within drew intellectuals and artisans, resulting in a rich cultural tapestry. The renowned Chindia Tower dominates the skyline, a tribute to architectural ingenuity and strategic forethought that provides panoramic views and a trip through time. Today, the stronghold remains as a melancholy reflection of a brilliant past, enticing tourists to explore its labyrinthine remains, admire the frescoes of the Great Princely Church, and immerse themselves in the echoes of Wallachian grandeur.
Petre Cercel commissioned the Great Royal Church and the Royal Court in 1584, and they serve as testaments to Romania's rich architectural and cultural heritage. Dedicated to "The Virgin Mary's Sleep", it exhibits the inscribed Greek cross church design, with remarkable dimensions of 14 x 30 metres. Petre Cercel's features, such as a royal balcony with direct palace access, emphasise its regal status. Over the decades, the church's paintings evolved to show both religious commitment and artistic mastery. Constantin Brâncoveanu's 17th-century renovations deepened and enriched its iconography, resulting in a visual feast of colour and expressiveness. Notably, the church houses a gallery of portraits of Muntenia rulers, which provides an intriguing view into Romania's dynastic history.
Visit Targoviste to immerse yourself in the city's legends and secrets. The ruins of the Princely Court and the majestic Chindia Tower are reminders of its great past.
Practical considerations for individuals going on this journey of discovery abound, ranging from checking visiting schedules to investigating adjacent sights such as the Museum of the Printing Press and Old Books. Furthermore, the curious traveller is encouraged to extend their stay by visiting other regional landmarks such as the formidable Poenari Fortress, the venerable Curtea de Arges Monastery, and the stately Potlogi Castle, all of which provide glimpses into Romania's rich cultural tapestry.
Ready to explore the secrets of Chindia Fortress? Let Rolandia tailor a custom tour just for you. Get in touch to start planning your immersive experience!