The mountains encased in mists that make up the Carpathian Mountains have long guarded their secrets. Bran Castle, the famed stone castle that inspired the fascination of all people with the character of Count Dracula. Over the years, the Romanian attraction has been an important bridge between the past of medieval times and Gothic fantasy. The castle is now entering a brand new modern era of international tourism. It is a step that ties The King of Rock and' Roll to the King of Vampires. U.S. businessman Joel Weinshanker and his Ad Populum company have purchased an overwhelming stake in the operations of the castle. This is a huge change in the way one of Europe's most renowned heritage sites is shared with the rest of the world.
Ad Populum, known for overseeing iconic brands such as Graceland as well as the amusing Chia Pet, now holds an 80 per cent stake in the firm that runs the day-to-day operations of the castle. The magnificent castle's stone walls and towers are still the property belonging to the Habsburg family, who are the descendants of Princess Ileana and the heart of the operation of the castle is under American direction. The aim is clear: the goal is to make Bran Castle a top international tourist attraction, and draw greater numbers of visitors across the United States and Western Europe towards the centre of Transylvania.
