The character of Count Dracula, the vampire from Bram Stoker’s novel, was named after the historical figure of Wallachian Prince Vlad III the Impaler, who was also known by the name Dracula, thanks to his father’s membership in the Order of the Dragon.
Researchers think they have found the dungeon where Dracula was held as a prisoner during the 15th century.
During restorations and excavations of the Tokat Castle in Turkey, archaeologists found two dungeons, plus a long secret tunnel.
According to Ibrahim Cetin who is working on the excavations, one of the dungeons was probably the very room where Dracula was held hostage.
Historical records show that Dracula was captured by the Ottomans in 1442, along with his father and younger brother.
Vlad III is said to have killed up to 80 thousand people after being released from captivity. He is seen as a folk hero in Romania and other parts of Europe for defending his country against the Ottoman invaders and other enemies.
He also is credited with intimidating the Turkish invaders by putting thousands of dead bodies that had been impaled on display surrounding the city of Targoviste.
