For centuries, it chilled the blood of terrified villagers in Bram Stoker’s classic Gothic novel. Today, the castle that inspired Dracula’s hideaway is being dusted down in readiness for overnight Halloween guests. Bran Castle, like Stoker’s creation, stands among the Carpathian mountains in northern Romania. And in a nod to the castle’s literary heritage, guests will be welcomed by Dacre Stoker, the great grand-nephew of the Irish author. “I want to give them a sense of atmosphere and authenticity,” Stoker said, “but my real interest is raising awareness of Bram Stoker, who was really overshadowed by his own amazing story.

Source: National Post October 19, 2016 12:00 UTC