Kendeffy Castle, 18th-century château in Sântămăria-Orlea, Romania
Kendeffy Castle is an 18th-century rectangular structure divided into three distinct sections and topped with a monumental tower featuring Baroque decorative elements on its main facade. The building displays architectural characteristics typical of noble residences from this period in the region.
Count Elek Kendeffy commissioned the construction of this castle in 1782, establishing it as one of three major residences of his noble family in Hunedoara County. The property became an important center for the regional aristocracy throughout the 19th century.
The main entrance displays a Baroque plate created by sculptor József Hoffmayer from Cluj, showing the coats of arms of the Kendeffy and Bethlen families. This decoration tells the story of the noble connections that shaped this residence.
The castle now operates as a hotel and can be reached by following the main road from Simeria through Sântămăria-Orlea. Visitors should note that the location is somewhat remote, so planning ahead is helpful.
In 1874, landscape architect Wilhelm Klensky designed an English garden around the castle, incorporating decorative vessels and statues throughout the grounds. This cultivated garden remains a calm counterpoint to the building's formal structure.
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