What Do Maryhill Museum in Washington State and Bran Castle in Transylvania Have in Common?

What Do Maryhill Museum in Washington State and Bran Castle in Transylvania Have in Common?

At first glance, a museum in rural Washington and a medieval castle in Transylvania might not seem connected. But both share a fascinating link—Queen Marie of Romania. This extraordinary queen left her mark on both continents, blending the grandeur of Romanian royalty with the cultural landscape of the Pacific Northwest in an unexpected way.

The Queen Who Won Over America

In 1926, Queen Marie embarked on a historic tour of the United States, becoming the first European queen to visit America. She wasn’t just there for royal formalities—Marie had a mission. She wanted to strengthen Romania’s international reputation, promote cultural ties, and, of course, charm the American people.

And she did just that. With her grace, wit, and striking presence, she won over crowds from New York to Seattle, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went.

A Royal Visit to Washington State

Queen Marie’s stop in Washington was particularly special. She was met with grand receptions, parades, and enthusiastic admirers. In Seattle, she visited the University of Washington and met with local dignitaries, but one of her most enduring connections in the state was with Sam Hill, a railroad magnate and philanthropist.

The Maryhill Museum: A Royal Dedication

Sam Hill and Queen Marie shared a deep friendship, and he invited her to dedicate the Maryhill Museum of Art in Goldendale, Washington. Originally planned as a grand estate, the building was repurposed into an art museum under Queen Marie’s encouragement.

In 1926, she traveled to Maryhill to officially inaugurate the museum, praising Hill’s vision and marveling at the stunning Columbia River Gorge. Today, Maryhill Museum remains one of the few places outside of Romania where you can see a dedicated collection of Queen Marie’s personal belongings, including royal regalia, furniture, and artifacts from her fascinating life.

More Than a Queen—A Diplomatic Powerhouse

Beyond her elegance and charm, Queen Marie was a formidable diplomat. After World War I, she played a key role in securing Romania’s territorial expansion at the 1919 Paris Peace Conference, personally lobbying world leaders for recognition of Greater Romania.

She was also a dedicated humanitarian, serving as a Red Cross nurse during the war and tirelessly advocating for medical care and aid. Her influence extended far beyond royal circles—she was a true leader of her time.

Bran Castle: Queen Marie’s Enchanted Retreat in Transylvania

While many know Bran Castle as the so-called “Dracula’s Castle,” few realize it was actually a beloved home of Queen Marie. In 1920, the people of Brașov gifted her Bran Castle as a token of gratitude for her role in uniting Romania.

Far from the dark, Gothic image often associated with Dracula, Queen Marie transformed Bran Castle into a warm, elegant royal residence. She filled it with beautiful tapestries, handcrafted furniture, and a touch of her signature bohemian style, making it a true fairytale retreat nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. She even built a small stone cottage, known as the Tea House, where she would relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Today, Bran Castle is a highlight of our Transylvania Unveiled tour, offering visitors a chance to step inside the world of Queen Marie. As you explore the castle’s cozy chambers, hidden staircases, and stunning balconies, you’ll see it as she did—not as a vampire’s lair, but as a royal sanctuary filled with history and charm.

A Legacy That Spans Continents

Queen Marie’s influence stretched far beyond Romania. Whether she was securing her country’s place in history, dedicating a museum in Washington, or finding solace in Bran Castle, her story continues to captivate and inspire.

If you’re fascinated by her legacy, join us on our Transylvania Unveiled tour, where you’ll get to experience Bran Castle firsthand and walk in the footsteps of one of Romania’s most legendary queens.

Ready for an adventure? Let’s go to Transylvania!

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Queen Marie of Romania | Maryhill Museum of Art |