• Bellu Cemetery (Cimitirul Șerban Vodă-Bellu) - The tomb of Iulia Hasdeu in Bellu Cemetery stands as one of the most mysterious and storied monuments in Bucharest. Created by the scholar Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu, it serves as a tribute to his gifted daughter, Iulia, a child prodigy who tragically passed away from tuberculosis in 1888, just shy of her 19th birthday.
• Iulia Hasdeu Castle - Located in Câmpina, Romania, the Iulia Hasdeu Castle, also known as the “Mage’s Castle,” is among the most intriguing and haunting landmarks in the country. Unlike a traditional fortress, it was constructed as a “temple” of mourning and spiritism.
  Here’s why this castle is so distinctive:

1. The Tragic Backstory
   The castle was erected between 1893 and 1896 by the renowned Romanian scholar and writer Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu. He was heartbroken by the loss of his only daughter, Iulia, a child prodigy who succumbed to tuberculosis at 18.
   Iulia was exceptionally talented—she was the first Romanian woman to attend the Sorbonne in Paris and was an accomplished poet and musician. Following her death, her father became fixated on communicating with her spirit.
2. A “Spiritist” Blueprint
   Legend has it (and according to Hasdeu’s own assertions), the castle’s design was not crafted by an architect but was instead dictated by Iulia’s spirit during spiritism sessions.

• Pelișor Castle - Just a brief 20-minute drive north of Câmpina is Pelișor Castle, offering a stark contrast to the mystical, somber ambiance of Hasdeu Castle. While its “big brother,” Peleș Castle, is a grand Neo-Renaissance palace, Pelișor is a more personal, Art Nouveau “chalet” that mirrors the sophisticated taste of its notable resident, Queen Marie of Romania.
  Constructed between 1899 and 1902 by the order of King Carol I, it was meant to be the home for the royal heirs: the future King Ferdinand and Queen Marie.
  The Soul of the Castle: Queen Marie
  If Peleș embodies the discipline and German heritage of King Carol I, Pelișor reflects the artistic essence of Queen Marie. She not only resided there but also personally designed the interior, merging Art Nouveau, Byzantine, and Celtic styles.
  Highlights of the Interior
  The Golden Room: This is the castle’s most renowned room. The walls are adorned with gilded stucco (gold leaf) featuring thistle motifs, the emblem of Scotland.

• Private transportation
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Professional tour guide in English

• Lunch

Embark on a captivating journey through Romanian history and spirituality with this exceptional tour. Begin at Bellu Cemetery, where the grave of Iulia Hasdeu, adorned with Masonic symbols, narrates a touching tale of life and the afterlife. Continue to Iulia Hasdeu Castle in Campina, a spiritualist sanctuary that reflects the scholar’s belief in communicating with the beyond. Explore the Temple Room and personal exhibits that reveal his remarkable life. Conclude with a visit to Pelisor Castle in Sinaia, the lavish residence of Queen Marie, featuring exquisite Art Nouveau interiors and the magnificent Golden Room with Byzantine motifs.

• Visit Iulia Hasdeu’s grave and discover her father’s beliefs
• Explore Iulia Hasdeu Castle, steeped in spiritualist history
• Discover the opulent Pelisor Castle, residence of Queen Marie
• Gain profound insights into Romania’s spirituality and royal heritage

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.