Wass-Bánffy castle in Gilău, Cluj, Medieval castle in Gilău, Romania.
Wass-Bánffy castle in Gilău is a stone fortress with four corner towers surrounding a central courtyard. The building combines Gothic and Renaissance elements with decorated window frames, revealing layers of construction from different periods of its history.
Construction began in 1439 under Bishop Gheorghe Lepes, establishing a stronghold in a strategically significant region. The castle later gained importance as a political center, hosting influential visitors during negotiations in the 16th century.
The castle was home to noble families who left their mark on its design through successive modifications. Walking around, you notice how each generation added elements that reflect their own tastes and needs.
The site is located within an 11-hectare natural park and is accessible via main transportation routes in Cluj County. Plan time to explore both the building and the surrounding grounds, and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the outdoor areas.
From 1972 to 2012, the castle operated as a specialized school for children with disabilities before returning to the Bánffy family heirs. This unconventional chapter in the building's life reflects how it served a different purpose during the later decades of the 20th century.
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