by Tara Adams
MIERCUREA CIUC, Romania -- Dracula Park Transylvania will feature a friendly, non-scary version of the neck-biting villain, along with witches, gnomes and other mystical creatures, according to a statement posted Tuesday on the park's Facebook page.
The post addressed concerns raised by area residents about the park, which received a municipal construction permit last week, and invited the public to a meeting to discuss the plans.
Residents' reactions to news of the proposed park have ranged from curiosity and enthusiasm to questions and criticism, according to the statement.
“We know that the name Dracula is divisive. At the same time, we consciously selected an internationally known legend, which is closely connected to Transylvania,” the statement said. “We are not imagining a scary horror park, but a magical fairy tale world, where witches, gnomes, magical creatures, and a friendly Dracula will receive their place.”
Park officials have invited area residents to a meeting in Csíkzsögöd, Romania, on Dec. 3 to present the plans and address questions and concerns.
“First of all, we dreamed of a large-scale theme park for families, a kind of huge playground centered on the fairytale world of medieval Transylvania,” the statement said. “We want to bring to life the legends, traditions, and cultural diversity of Transylvania with thematic villages, historically inspired buildings, games and experiences. We have dreamed of a place where children, parents and grandparents alike can enjoy themselves.”
The project is being developed by András Lénárd, known regionally for business ventures that include the Csíki Sörgyár brewery.
According to the park's website, Lénárd has more than 20 years of experience overseeing investments, from initial planning and financing through construction and operation.
The development team has enlisted several companies with experience in the amusement park industry, including Italy-based Zamperla and Team Park Project. Architects based in Bucharest are also involved in the project.
While the park's concepts have been proposed, detailed planning is still underway, according to the statement.
