Snagov Monastery

About

This idyllic lake island has been home to a church here since at least the 11th century, with the original monastery being added in the late 14th century. In 1453, a stone church was built, which later sank into the lake. According to local legend, after a lifetime of cruelty, Vlad Tepes III requested to be buried at this blissful sanctuary he allegedly had a hand in fortifying and improving. While archaeologists and historians haven’t been able to verify the tale, the myth has cemented itself in local lore. The Romanian government even had plans to create an amusement park called ‘Dracula Park’ in Snagov, which was abandoned in 2006. Along with getting to see the legendary grave in a fresco-filled church, visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk through the grounds and garden.