Kendy-Kemény Castle: A Historic Landmark in Romania
Kendy-Kemény Castle is a historical edifice located in the commune of Luncani, Mureș County, in central Romania. Built in the Renaissance style, the castle dates back to the 16th century and served as the residence of the Kemény noble family, one of the most prominent families in Transylvania. It is considered one of the most beautiful examples of noble architecture in the region and stands out as one of the most spectacular tourist attractions in Mureș County.
A Tumultuous History
Kendy-Kemény Castle has a rich and eventful history. Today, it is regarded as one of the most impressive castles in Romania, due to its remarkable architecture and extensive historical background. Before the castle was erected, a Roman fortification in Brâncovenești served as a strategic defense point on a high terrace above the Mureș River. This Roman stronghold, accompanied by a local settlement, ensured protection and communication between the Roman frontier and the surrounding territories.
In the 13th century, a fortified structure with moats was constructed from the ruins of the Roman fortification, initiated by royal decree. The first written mention of this fortress dates back to 1228, although it fell under a Mongol assault in 1242.
Cultural Transformation in the 20th Century
At the beginning of the 20th century, Count János Kemény spearheaded the initiative to transform the castle into a cultural center. In 1926, he organized a literary gathering at his castle, attended by 28 prominent Hungarian writers from Romania, leading to the establishment of the Helikon cultural association. Notable figures such as Áprily Lajos, Tamási Áron, and Albert Wass were among the attendees.
Architectural Features
The castle is built on a square plan, featuring an inner courtyard and towers of various sizes. Renaissance elements were added during renovation works in 1537 and 1555. A significant restoration in 1816, initiated by Count Miklós Kemény, brought substantial changes, including the construction of new structures like the large bastion.
Ownership Changes Over the Centuries
The current structure of the castle was built in the early 15th century by the noble Losonczi family and underwent numerous ownership changes over the next 150 years. Major renovations were undertaken in 1527. By 1610, the estate was acquired by Bethlen Gábor, the Prince of Transylvania, and later by Gheorghe Rakoczi I. In 1648, Gheorghe Rakoczi II, who became the Prince of Transylvania, donated the estate, consisting of five villages, to Kemény János.
Legacy of the Kemény Family
The Kemény family held the estate for the next three centuries. For 20 years, it served as the center for literary gatherings among writers from Transylvania. Behind the castle, the graves of family members can be found, along with a stone table that hosted meetings of the Erdélyi Helikon magazine between the two world wars, promoting the idea of Transylvanian literature with diverse cultural origins.
Visiting Kendy-Kemény Castle
Kendy-Kemény Castle is located 42 km from Târgu Mureș and 11 km from Reghin, in the direction of Deda. It remains a significant cultural and historical site, attracting visitors interested in its rich heritage.
Exploring the Historical Castle in the Upper Mureș Valley
This castle, located in the Upper Mureș Valley, stands as a remarkable example of late Baroque architecture, showcasing the transformations that occurred after 1818. During the interwar period, the castle served as the venue for the prestigious cultural association “Helikon,” which gathered the most prominent figures of Hungarian literature of that era.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fees
The castle is open for visits from Tuesday to Friday, between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, and Saturday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It remains closed on Mondays. An entrance ticket costs 30 lei, allowing access to both the castle and its park. Guided tours are available but require prior scheduling. For reservations and further information, please call +4 0741 225 141.
Attractions in the Vicinity
Aside from the renowned castle, visitors to Brâncovenești can explore the Calvinist Church, which dates back to the 17th century, the local museum, and an old mill. Approximately 30 km from Brâncovenești lies a beautiful peak in the Călimani Mountains called “Tronul Domnului,” offering splendid views. Additionally, the region is home to several mineral springs worth visiting.
The historic town of Reghin is just 11 km away from Brâncovenești and is a must-see for tourists. Other notable sites include the Teleki Castle in Gornești (about 25 km away) and the Urmánczy Castle in Toplița (around 60 km away). The archaeological site in Brâncovenești is another tourist attraction, where archaeological research aims to uncover fragments of history that have shaped the region over the past 2,000 years.
Archaeological Significance
The archaeological site in Brâncovenești includes a Roman fort and a civilian settlement, with recent excavations revealing the ruins of other dwellings, silver coins, pottery, and a stone platform believed to have been part of a road constructed by the Romans. However, the site is not yet prepared for tourist visits, as it is still under research.
Discovering Târgu Mureș
If you find yourself in Mureș, do not miss Târgu Mureș, a city filled with historical monuments, cultural institutions, and parks. Ascend the Cornești Plateau for beautiful views of the city. Stroll through the Rose Square, admire the Town Hall, the Palace of Culture, the Franciscan Tower, the Medieval Fortress, the Rákóczi Stairs, and the Status Quo Ante Synagogue.
While in Târgu Mureș, make sure to visit the zoo, which hosts around 500 animals from various species, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. Sighișoara is another stunning city worth visiting in Mureș. Don’t miss the Citadel Square, the Monastery Church dating back to 1298, the 64-meter Clock Tower, the Craftsmen’s House, the Blacksmiths’ Tower, or the Town Hall. Also, be sure to see the St. Joseph Roman Catholic Cathedral and the beautiful monasteries in the area.
Tourist Attractions in Reghin
Reghin is another city rich in tourist attractions. Highlights include the Wooden Church, the Reformed Church, the Roman Catholic Church, the Apalina Roman Catholic Church, the Saxon Church, and the Holy Trinity Church and Cemetery. Don’t miss the castle at Lăpușna, situated at an altitude of 815 meters in the Ibănești commune, approximately 45 kilometers from Reghin. The Rakoczi-Bornemisza Castle is another interesting tourist destination located just 13 kilometers away.
The History of the Castle in Gurghiu
Located in the center of Gurghiu, at the foot of the Cetății Hill, the castle has a rich history that dates back to the reign of Prince Gheorghe Rákóczi I (1593-1648). The prince sought to create a residence that would be more accessible for hunting parties, which he frequently attended in the Gurghiului Mountains. In 1717, the castle was leased for a period of 99 years.
Tourist Attractions in Mureș County
The castle, with its intriguing past, is one of the notable tourist attractions in Mureș County, drawing visitors interested in history and architecture.
