Bethlen-Haller Castle
The Necsulescu family saved a Renaissance castle in Romania and made it a great spot for wine lovers.
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Ana Necsulescu with her father Claudiu, the owner of Bethlen-Haller Castle
I've spoken virtually with Ana Necsulescu, whose father, winemaker Claudiu Necsulescu, bought the Renaissance Bethlen-Haller Castle from the state after the collapse of the communist regime. Later–after the castle was returned to its former owners, the Bethlen-Haller family–he purchased it from them for a second time. Mr. Necsulescu had a vision for the castle, which miraculously managed to preserve two rare 16th century wooden staircases, and channelled his efforts into restoring it with great attention to historical accuracy. Along with the restoration, the owner thought of a strategy to make the wine-growing region of Jidvei attractive for tourists. His daughters–Ana and Maria–and his wife Daniela helped his strategy to succeed. The castle, which was a sparkling wine production facility under the communists, has become the headquarters of Necsulescu's Jidvei Wines. The kiss of life that winemaker gave to the castle also revitalized the surrounding area, creating jobs and boosting local economic activity.
FAIR PLAY IS KEY
Castles and Palaces (CnP): Ana, this is interesting! Your father bought the castle twice: first from the Romanian state and then from the owner who also got it from the state–how was that possible?
Ana Necsulescu (AN): Yes, the purchase of Bethlen-Haller Castle was a complex process. Initially, my father bought it from the Romanian state, but due to legal restitution procedures, the castle was returned to its rightful owner, Count Haller, after the fall of the communist regime. Out of respect for the noble family that had lived in the castle until 1949, my father wanted to personally reach out to Count Haller. They discussed the future of the castle together and decided on the best course of action. To ensure that it could be properly restored, my father repurchased it. This was a matter of fairness. It was also necessary to secure the long-term investment in its restoration and preservation.
Ana Necsulescu (AN): Yes, the purchase of Bethlen-Haller Castle was a complex process. Initially, my father bought it from the Romanian state, but due to legal restitution procedures, the castle was returned to its rightful owner, Count Haller, after the fall of the communist regime. Out of respect for the noble family that had lived in the castle until 1949, my father wanted to personally reach out to Count Haller. They discussed the future of the castle together and decided on the best course of action. To ensure that it could be properly restored, my father repurchased it. This was a matter of fairness. It was also necessary to secure the long-term investment in its restoration and preservation.
CnP: The castle belonged to many noble families, about 45 of them. What do you know about the previous owners?
AN: The castle has a fascinating history. It was originally built by the noble Bethlen family in the early 17th century and later passed through the hands of many aristocratic families, including the Hallers. Over the centuries, ownership changed frequently, sometimes due to political shifts. Imagine this: at a certain point it was even lost at a game of cards!
AN: The castle has a fascinating history. It was originally built by the noble Bethlen family in the early 17th century and later passed through the hands of many aristocratic families, including the Hallers. Over the centuries, ownership changed frequently, sometimes due to political shifts. Imagine this: at a certain point it was even lost at a game of cards!
AN: A noble residence here, in Cetatea de Baltă, was first mentioned in the late 16th century. Back then it was the Csáky family who owned the estate. Expert believe that the original construction took place between 1565 and 1580. In the early 17th century, the estate came into the possession of István (Ștefan) Bethlen de Iktár, the brother of Gábor (Gabriel) Bethlen, Prince of Transylvania. It was he who started the transformation of the citadel into the Renaissance-style structure that still stands. The reason? István Bethlen wanted his children to feel cozy.
AN: Around a century passed and the estate was sold to Gábor (Gabriel) Bethlen de Beclean who was the Chancellor at the Viennese court. The man later gave it to his brother who happened to be the Treasurer of Transylvania. Miklós Bethlen oversaw extensive Baroque-style renovations and added an exotic garden that became famous throughout Transylvania. You said 45 families and we haven't even mentioned 10 of them!
AN: Just one final remark: there's an inscription behind the castle that runs like this: „Nicolae Bethlen, illustrious Count, regional chamberlain of the state and government, royal counselor, and treasurer of the Grand Principality of Transylvania, ordered this castle to be renovated and adorned in 1773.”
CnP: Back in 1983, a fire tore through part of the castle. It seems like your family got a property that was in pretty bad shape, right?
AN: Indeed, when my family acquired the castle, it was in a poor state. That fire had caused significant damage, particularly to the second floor, the towers, and part of the roof. But the damage caused by the fire was only part of the story–the castle had also undergone major changes during its time as a sparkling wine production facility under IAS (State Agricultural Enterprise) Jidvei. The interior had been adapted to serve production needs rather than to preserve its historical character.
AN: Indeed, when my family acquired the castle, it was in a poor state. That fire had caused significant damage, particularly to the second floor, the towers, and part of the roof. But the damage caused by the fire was only part of the story–the castle had also undergone major changes during its time as a sparkling wine production facility under IAS (State Agricultural Enterprise) Jidvei. The interior had been adapted to serve production needs rather than to preserve its historical character.
AN: After the early 2000s, the sparkling wine production was relocated to the Jidvei winery, allowing us to begin the extensive restoration process and return the castle to its former beauty. Unfortunately, during its years as a production facility, many valuable artifacts, furniture pieces, wall paintings, original architectural and decorative elements were lost. Our family’s goal was not just to restore the castle structurally but also to recover its historical essence and transform it into a space where its rich past could be appreciated once again.
CnP: After all, what made your father buy Bethlen-Haller and not some other less problematic castle either in Romania or in Europe in general?
AN: For my father, Bethlen-Haller Castle was not just a property; it was a vision. He intuitively understood its potential—not only as a historical landmark but as a symbol of Jidvei wines. At that time, wine tourism was virtually unheard of in Romania, but he believed that restoring the castle and connecting it to the winemaking tradition of the region would add significant cultural and economic value.
AN: For my father, Bethlen-Haller Castle was not just a property; it was a vision. He intuitively understood its potential—not only as a historical landmark but as a symbol of Jidvei wines. At that time, wine tourism was virtually unheard of in Romania, but he believed that restoring the castle and connecting it to the winemaking tradition of the region would add significant cultural and economic value.
AN: It was a bold decision, but one deeply rooted in history and tradition. By acquiring and restoring Bethlen-Haller Castle, our family sought to honor this history, ensuring that both the castle and the region’s winemaking tradition continue to thrive. For us, the castle was never just a building—it was the heart of a story we wanted to preserve and share with the world.
CnP: What was the biggest challenge, and how did the restoration go – everything as planned?
AN: Restoring a historical monument is never straightforward. The biggest challenge was maintaining authenticity while making the castle functional for modern use. Some unexpected issues required additional work, but we remained committed to preserving as much of the original architecture as possible.
AN: The restoration project, which began in 2003 and spanned nearly two decades, was a labor of love. Every effort was made to respect the original materials and techniques used in the castle’s construction. Experts in restoration were consulted to ensure that both the imposing architecture and the elegant simplicity of the interiors were carefully preserved.
AN: Restoring a historical monument is never straightforward. The biggest challenge was maintaining authenticity while making the castle functional for modern use. Some unexpected issues required additional work, but we remained committed to preserving as much of the original architecture as possible.
AN: The restoration project, which began in 2003 and spanned nearly two decades, was a labor of love. Every effort was made to respect the original materials and techniques used in the castle’s construction. Experts in restoration were consulted to ensure that both the imposing architecture and the elegant simplicity of the interiors were carefully preserved.
Photo credit: Arhiva de Fotografie
CnP: On old postcards and pictures, which I’ve seen, the castle is called Küküllövár. That's its Hungarian name–correct me if I'm wrong. At least two previous Küküllövár castles—a wooden one and a stone one—stood on the same spot. Did you find any interesting artifacts from those distant times
AN: Right, Küküllövár is the Hungarian name for Cetatea de Baltă, the village where the castle is located. The region has a rich multicultural history, as for centuries, Hungarian, Saxon, and Romanian communities have lived here, each contributing to the traditions and heritage that define Transylvania. This blend of cultures is also reflected in the region's toponymy, customs, and architecture.
AN: Right, Küküllövár is the Hungarian name for Cetatea de Baltă, the village where the castle is located. The region has a rich multicultural history, as for centuries, Hungarian, Saxon, and Romanian communities have lived here, each contributing to the traditions and heritage that define Transylvania. This blend of cultures is also reflected in the region's toponymy, customs, and architecture.
AN: The area's history is complex and, at times, turbulent. Some historians believe that an earlier fortress stood near the village, in a marshy area along the Târnava River—hence the Romanian name, Cetatea de Baltă (Fortress of the Marsh). This fortress is thought to have been destroyed during the Mongol invasion of the 13th century, while the new castle was first documented in 1321.
AN: During the reign of King Matthias Corvinus, the castle was gifted to the Transylvanian voivode Pongrácz János. After his death, it passed into the possession of Stephen the Great of Moldavia as a feudal estate. His son, Bogdan Vodă, inherited it, but in 1538, as a result of political shifts and conflicts, the castle was confiscated by the Transylvanian Diet from Prince Petru Rareș, an ally of Ferdinand I. The fortress was ultimately destroyed. Later, in the second half of the 16th century, the estate became the property of the Csáky family.
AN: Although historical records indicate that older fortifications had stood on this site, we did not discover any physical remnants from those periods. But we did found fragments of decorative elements, which provided valuable insights into the evolution of the castle over time. These discoveries helped us better understand how it was constructed, modified, and used across different historical eras.
What have Aussies found at Chateau de Purnon?
CnP: Did you have a chance to study the old plans and blueprints of the castle during the restoration?
AN: Yes, we consulted historical documents, sketches, and studies to guide the restoration. Since Bethlen-Haller Castle was primarily a hunting and leisure residence rather than a strategic fortress, not many original documents have been preserved over time. We were able to study blueprints and architectural plans, both in Romanian archives and, more importantly, in Budapest. Each sketch and historical record helped us greatly to restore the castle ensuring that its architectural heritage and unique character are preserved.
AN: Yes, we consulted historical documents, sketches, and studies to guide the restoration. Since Bethlen-Haller Castle was primarily a hunting and leisure residence rather than a strategic fortress, not many original documents have been preserved over time. We were able to study blueprints and architectural plans, both in Romanian archives and, more importantly, in Budapest. Each sketch and historical record helped us greatly to restore the castle ensuring that its architectural heritage and unique character are preserved.
CnP: Do you know what the castle looked like from the inside when it was built?
TH: We don’t have a complete visual record, but historical descriptions and surviving elements suggest that it featured richly decorated rooms, wooden ceilings, and elegant furniture. The noble families who lived here would have had lavish interiors, reflecting their status and cultural influences of the time.
TH: We don’t have a complete visual record, but historical descriptions and surviving elements suggest that it featured richly decorated rooms, wooden ceilings, and elegant furniture. The noble families who lived here would have had lavish interiors, reflecting their status and cultural influences of the time.
CnP: That's my next question: to what extent are the interiors authentic? Did you furnish the castle with objects from the same historical periods?
AN: We tried to restore the interiors as authentically as possible. We carefully selected furniture and decorations that reflect the castle’s history, combining antique pieces with newly crafted elements that respect the original style.
AN: We tried to restore the interiors as authentically as possible. We carefully selected furniture and decorations that reflect the castle’s history, combining antique pieces with newly crafted elements that respect the original style.
CnP: Any restoration of such an object is always about a balance between old and new. How did you redesign the systems inside the castle—heating/plumbing/electricity?
AN: It was important to modernize the castle without compromising its historical integrity. We introduced discreet heating, plumbing, and electrical systems to ensure comfort while preserving the aesthetic of the past. Sustainability is also a key value for us, and we have incorporated eco-friendly technologies wherever possible. A recent addition to the estate—the new accommodation wing—was designed as a symbolic protective wall embracing the inner domain.
AN: It was important to modernize the castle without compromising its historical integrity. We introduced discreet heating, plumbing, and electrical systems to ensure comfort while preserving the aesthetic of the past. Sustainability is also a key value for us, and we have incorporated eco-friendly technologies wherever possible. A recent addition to the estate—the new accommodation wing—was designed as a symbolic protective wall embracing the inner domain.
STAIRWAY TO... CLOCKS AND WINE
CnP: The castle has two very rare wooden staircases from the 16th centuries. Can people still walk these stairs, or can visitors just look at them?
AN: This is true. These staircases are among the rarest historical features of the castle, remarkable examples of craftsmanship. The layout of Bethlen-Haller Castle follows a typical Renaissance architectural style, with a compact rectangular structure, no inner courtyard, and five covered towers surrounding the building.
AN: This is true. These staircases are among the rarest historical features of the castle, remarkable examples of craftsmanship. The layout of Bethlen-Haller Castle follows a typical Renaissance architectural style, with a compact rectangular structure, no inner courtyard, and five covered towers surrounding the building.
AN: Four of these, positioned at each corner, are circular and feature oil drop slots at the top—an interesting reminder of the defensive elements of the period. The fifth tower, which adjoins a secondary facade, has an octagonal shape and houses the remarkable oak staircase in the Clock Tower. This spiral staircase was built without any metal elements, it relies only on wooden joints and peg, and it is one of the few surviving examples of its kind in Europe!
AN: But there is also another wooden staircase from the same period. It leads from the Receiving Salon down into the cellar, that houses the Grand Tasting Hall. Both staircases are used daily and we have taken measures to protect them by installing wooden steps mounted on a suspended metal structure, anchored into the walls, ensuring their preservation while maintaining their functionality.
CnP: Since we are in the cellars now, tell me about your ghosts!
AN: Every castle has its legends, and Bethlen-Haller is no exception! However, in over 25 years, we haven't encountered any ghosts—at least not yet. And if there were any, given the castle's history as a place of leisure, grand celebrations, and its deep connection to wine, they would surely be the most... cheerful ghosts you could imagine!😊
AN: Every castle has its legends, and Bethlen-Haller is no exception! However, in over 25 years, we haven't encountered any ghosts—at least not yet. And if there were any, given the castle's history as a place of leisure, grand celebrations, and its deep connection to wine, they would surely be the most... cheerful ghosts you could imagine!😊
CnP: There is a collection of different clocks and pendulums in the castle, which are very dear to your father, Mr. Claudiu Necsulescu. What's the story behind them?
AN: My father is an engineer and he has always been fascinated by intricate mechanisms and engineering marvels. His passion for antique clocks began on his 40th birthday when he received the first pieces in his collection. With each passing year, the collection grew, turning into a cherished symbol of his love for precision and craftsmanship.
AN: My father is an engineer and he has always been fascinated by intricate mechanisms and engineering marvels. His passion for antique clocks began on his 40th birthday when he received the first pieces in his collection. With each passing year, the collection grew, turning into a cherished symbol of his love for precision and craftsmanship.
AN: Time is an essential element in both history and the art of winemaking. Just as the passing of time perfects a fine wine, it also shapes people and places, leaving its mark on everything it touches. The collection of 62 clocks and pendulums in the castle [as of 2025] is a tribute to this idea—a reminder that patience, dedication, and an appreciation for history bring out the best in both wine and life.
CnP: Do you live in the castle? Have you ever spent the night in it?
AN: We don’t live in the castle permanently, though we very much think of it as "home." We come here often and stay overnight, especially since it is so close to the winery and vineyards. There is always plenty of work—meetings, events, and important business decisions to be made. The castle is both a symbol of Jidvei wines and a five-star oenotourism destination. It also holds a special place in our hearts: it is where we gather with family and friends to celebrate holidays and create cherished memories, making it not just a historic landmark but also a true family retreat.
AN: We don’t live in the castle permanently, though we very much think of it as "home." We come here often and stay overnight, especially since it is so close to the winery and vineyards. There is always plenty of work—meetings, events, and important business decisions to be made. The castle is both a symbol of Jidvei wines and a five-star oenotourism destination. It also holds a special place in our hearts: it is where we gather with family and friends to celebrate holidays and create cherished memories, making it not just a historic landmark but also a true family retreat.
CnP: How did the locals react to your family becoming the owners of the castle?
AN: The locals were very welcoming and receptive. They were happy to see that Jidvei and the castle would be revitalized, and they understood our vision of building something meaningful together for the well-being of the community. At the wineries, in the vineyards, and at the castle, we try to work exclusively with people from the area because we wanted to give back to the community that has given us so much.
AN: The locals were very welcoming and receptive. They were happy to see that Jidvei and the castle would be revitalized, and they understood our vision of building something meaningful together for the well-being of the community. At the wineries, in the vineyards, and at the castle, we try to work exclusively with people from the area because we wanted to give back to the community that has given us so much.
CnP: Were locals involved in the restoration works?
AN: Absolutely! We made a conscious effort to collaborate with local craftsmen and to use as many natural materials from the region as possible—stone, bricks, reclaimed tiles, and wood. This is the only way to preserve the castle’s authenticity and heritage.
AN: Absolutely! We made a conscious effort to collaborate with local craftsmen and to use as many natural materials from the region as possible—stone, bricks, reclaimed tiles, and wood. This is the only way to preserve the castle’s authenticity and heritage.
'What the hell did we do?'
CnP: How much did the restoration cost and what about the annual maintenance?
AN: It was a significant investment, but for us, it was about preserving history rather than just a financial decision. Maintenance costs are considerable because preserving a historical monument requires constant care. We see it as a responsibility and an investment in the future.
AN: It was a significant investment, but for us, it was about preserving history rather than just a financial decision. Maintenance costs are considerable because preserving a historical monument requires constant care. We see it as a responsibility and an investment in the future.
CnP: You've quoted a legend about a tunnel that connected the castle to another one 15 km away. Why not use modern technology to verify it?
AN: It’s a fascinating legend! Modern technology like ground-penetrating radar could certainly be useful, but the land and historical context make exploration difficult. Plus, considering that the tunnel would have had to pass under the Târnava Mică River, it’s highly unlikely that such a construction could have been achieved at that time, especially in an area with marshy and flood-prone terrain. Still, the story remains an intriguing mystery that only adds to the castle’s charm!
AN: It’s a fascinating legend! Modern technology like ground-penetrating radar could certainly be useful, but the land and historical context make exploration difficult. Plus, considering that the tunnel would have had to pass under the Târnava Mică River, it’s highly unlikely that such a construction could have been achieved at that time, especially in an area with marshy and flood-prone terrain. Still, the story remains an intriguing mystery that only adds to the castle’s charm!
BETHLEN-HALLER MEANS JIDVEI, JIDVEI MEANS WINE
CnP: Bethlen-Haller is all about wine, isn't it? How long has winemaking been part of the castle’s history?
AN: Winemaking has been a tradition in this region for centuries, and the castle has always been associated with vineyards. We come from the Land of Wine (Țara Vinului in Romanian), and we are proud to carry forward the legacy of winemakers and vine-growers who have shaped this region for centuries.
AN: Winemaking has been a tradition in this region for centuries, and the castle has always been associated with vineyards. We come from the Land of Wine (Țara Vinului in Romanian), and we are proud to carry forward the legacy of winemakers and vine-growers who have shaped this region for centuries.
AN: The vineyards in the heart of Transylvania were known during the feudal era as Weinland or The Land of Wine. This was a place of fairytale castles and fortified Saxon churches. Vines has been cultivated here for over 800 years. Records that go back to 1177 mention its big vineyards and excellent wines. This land, with its fertile soils, gentle hills, and ideal climate, has been home to generations of winemakers dedicated to crafting fresh and complex wines.
CnP: I've read that your family, through the Jidvei company, owns the largest single-owner vineyard in Europe. How is it that you've become number one in Europe–you'd expect that from a French or Italian winemaking family?
AN: It’s true that France and Italy are well known for their winemaking traditions, but Romania also has an incredible heritage in viticulture! Jidvei's success is the result of decades of passion, hard work, and innovation.
AN: It’s true that France and Italy are well known for their winemaking traditions, but Romania also has an incredible heritage in viticulture! Jidvei's success is the result of decades of passion, hard work, and innovation.
My father, along with my grandfather, Liviu Necsulescu—who personally oversaw the planting process thanks to his extensive experience in agriculture—have continuously invested in technology, research, and sustainable practices while respecting the traditions of the region.
Liviu Necsulescu
AN: From the very beginning, Jidvei was envisioned as an integrated business. We have our own nursery where we produce the planting material for our vineyards, ensuring the highest quality from the very first step. Unlike many other producers, we do not buy grapes or wine—everything is produced in-house. This full control over the process allows us to maintain consistency and excellence, contributing to Jidvei's position as one of the most important wine producers in Europe.
CnP: Now that visitors from all over the world, especially wine lovers, can stay at the castle, what's so special about it that makes Bethlen-Haller different from other castle hotels where you can enjoy a glass of wine in a cozy atmosphere?
AN: Bethlen-Haller Castle is unique because it offers more than just a luxurious stay—it provides an immersive journey into history, culture, and winemaking. Unlike many other castle hotels, Bethlen-Haller remains deeply connected to the surrounding vineyards and the Jidvei winery. It allows guests to experience firsthand a centuries-old tradition of viticulture.
AN: Bethlen-Haller Castle is unique because it offers more than just a luxurious stay—it provides an immersive journey into history, culture, and winemaking. Unlike many other castle hotels, Bethlen-Haller remains deeply connected to the surrounding vineyards and the Jidvei winery. It allows guests to experience firsthand a centuries-old tradition of viticulture.
AN: What truly sets the castle apart is the holistic approach to hospitality. We have embraced the concept of healthy food – healthy life, using fresh, organic ingredients from our own farms, gardens, and orchards. On the castle’s estate, we cultivate a bio garden and greenhouses. Every meal reflects the richness of the land.
CnP: What are the suites and where are they located?
AN: Bethlen-Haller Castle offers 27 beautifully designed rooms, each crafted to provide guests with a unique and immersive experience while preserving the authenticity of the castle and its surroundings.
AN: Bethlen-Haller Castle offers 27 beautifully designed rooms, each crafted to provide guests with a unique and immersive experience while preserving the authenticity of the castle and its surroundings.
The Courtyard Suites (7 rooms)
These rooms are furnished with hand-painted wooden furniture inspired by Saxon motifs, recreating the warm and traditional atmosphere specific to Transylvania.
These rooms are furnished with hand-painted wooden furniture inspired by Saxon motifs, recreating the warm and traditional atmosphere specific to Transylvania.
The Park Suites (10 rooms)
Located in a separate wing near the castle's park, this area embodies a symbolic protective wall enclosing the estate. The design follows the principles of passive houses, ensuring sustainability and comfort.
Located in a separate wing near the castle's park, this area embodies a symbolic protective wall enclosing the estate. The design follows the principles of passive houses, ensuring sustainability and comfort.
The Castle Suites (10 rooms)
These exclusive accommodations transport guests into two distinct worlds—one reflecting the grandeur of noble lords, the other evoking the elegance of aristocratic ladies from centuries past. Each suite is a blend of history, culture, and modern luxury, offering an unforgettable stay within the heart of Transylvania.
These exclusive accommodations transport guests into two distinct worlds—one reflecting the grandeur of noble lords, the other evoking the elegance of aristocratic ladies from centuries past. Each suite is a blend of history, culture, and modern luxury, offering an unforgettable stay within the heart of Transylvania.
CnP: Which is your best suite and why is it the best?
AN: It’s difficult to choose just one, but my favorite ones are on the first floor—particularly the Lady Suite. The rooms in this section are elegantly designed to reflect the refinement and grace of noblewomen from past centuries. The furniture is crafted from solid wood and painted in soft shades of white, allowing the natural grain of the veneer to subtly show through. It all creates a harmonious and delicate effect.
AN: It’s difficult to choose just one, but my favorite ones are on the first floor—particularly the Lady Suite. The rooms in this section are elegantly designed to reflect the refinement and grace of noblewomen from past centuries. The furniture is crafted from solid wood and painted in soft shades of white, allowing the natural grain of the veneer to subtly show through. It all creates a harmonious and delicate effect.
AN: Stylized Renaissance motifs add an air of nobility and sophistication to each space. The vibe is made even better by some gorgeous long, dusty-rose velvet drapes. They frame the windows really nicely and add a romantic, feminine touch to the space. This combination of history, elegance, and comfort makes these suites truly special.
CnP: What can your guests do at the castle besides enjoying the ambiance and the excellent wine?
AN: Our guests can enjoy a wide variety of activities. For those passionate about oenotourism, there are exclusive wine tastings, guided tours of the Jidvei and Tăuni wineries, and immersive walks through the vineyards, offering a deeper appreciation of Transylvania’s rich winemaking traditions.
AN: Our guests can enjoy a wide variety of activities. For those passionate about oenotourism, there are exclusive wine tastings, guided tours of the Jidvei and Tăuni wineries, and immersive walks through the vineyards, offering a deeper appreciation of Transylvania’s rich winemaking traditions.
AN: For the more adventurous, there is horseback riding, archery, and cycling tours through the picturesque surroundings. If relaxation is the goal, you can indulge in picnics in the vineyards or the castle’s park, where it's best to enjoy nature, tranquillity, and the beauty of this historic estate. Additionally, the castle often hosts cultural events and private celebrations where one can experience truly memorable and immersive moments.
CnP: Your castle is certainly a magnet for tourists and truly is an important economic player in the area. How do you think your project has changed the lives of the locals?
AN: There are two things to factor in: the restoration of Bethlen-Haller Castle and the growth of Jidvei. Both have significantly contributed to the local community’s development. By creating jobs in winemaking, hospitality, and cultural tourism, we have helped preserve local traditions while providing new opportunities for the people in the region. Many families have worked with us for generations, both at Jidvei and at the castle, passing on their skills, values, and pride in being part of a shared legacy.
AN: There are two things to factor in: the restoration of Bethlen-Haller Castle and the growth of Jidvei. Both have significantly contributed to the local community’s development. By creating jobs in winemaking, hospitality, and cultural tourism, we have helped preserve local traditions while providing new opportunities for the people in the region. Many families have worked with us for generations, both at Jidvei and at the castle, passing on their skills, values, and pride in being part of a shared legacy.
AN: Although the castle is a sought-after destination, we do not organize weddings, but rather focus on intimate private events like anniversaries, business dinners, and corporate meetings. But still, our main priority is being a venue for cultural events that bring people together and celebrate the region’s history.
AN: When I say event I mean concerts, film screenings, and artist residencies. We have Jidvei Weinland Trails–Running & Harvest Editions, a running competition and a grape-picking competition. Both are held on the castle’s estate. There's also Jidvei Bartenders and Mixology Camp, a contest of young Romanian mixologists.
CnP: Do you think what your family has done has been worthwhile?
AN: Absolutely. Restoring the castle and developing Jidvei has been a labor of love and it has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing the castle revived, welcoming visitors from around the world, and contributing to the preservation of Romanian heritage makes all the effort worthwhile.
AN: Absolutely. Restoring the castle and developing Jidvei has been a labor of love and it has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing the castle revived, welcoming visitors from around the world, and contributing to the preservation of Romanian heritage makes all the effort worthwhile.
CnP: Please give a piece of advice to a dreamer who would like to rescue a castle either for a business project or for themselves!
AN: Restoring a castle is a beautiful but challenging journey. My advice would be to respect the history of the place, surround yourself with experts, and be prepared for the unexpected. Passion and patience are key, but the result is priceless—the opportunity to bring history back to life and create something truly meaningful.
AN: Restoring a castle is a beautiful but challenging journey. My advice would be to respect the history of the place, surround yourself with experts, and be prepared for the unexpected. Passion and patience are key, but the result is priceless—the opportunity to bring history back to life and create something truly meaningful.
I hope that you liked the interview with Ana Necsulescu, one of the daughters of Claudiu Necsulescu, who restored Bethlen-Haller Castle in Romania and made it the HQs of Jidvei Wines and a mecca for wine enthusiasts.
Don't miss new stories by castle owners!
You can always get in touch with us via castlesandfamilies@gmail.com
Don't miss new stories by castle owners!
You can always get in touch with us via castlesandfamilies@gmail.com