Snagov Monastery
Mănăstirea Snagov
An ancient monastery on a small island in Lake Snagov, where legend says Vlad III, the real-life prototype of Dracula, is buried in front of the altar.
Snagov Monastery sits on a small island in Lake Snagov, about 40 km north of Bucharest. The island's monastery dates back to the 14th century, and the church standing today was built around 1521, with 16th-century murals preserved inside. Legend holds that Vlad III the Impaler, the prototype of Dracula, was buried here after he was killed, and a tomb slab in front of the altar bears his portrait, though scholars remain doubtful. Visitors can walk to the island across a footbridge from the shore or hire a boat from the lakeside. Admission is minimal, and modest dress is expected. By car or taxi it takes about an hour, and resorts and restaurants line the lakeshore.
Opening hours
About 09:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Therme București
- King Michael I Park (Herăstrău)
- Mogoșoaia Palace
- Primăverii Palace (Ceaușescu Mansion)
- Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum
- Arcul de Triumf
- National Museum of the Romanian Peasant
- Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History