Bloody myth about Vlad the Impaler may be true, scientists say
Proteomic analysis of letters written by Vlad sheds fresh light on the state of his health during his rule.
Romanian warlord Vlad the Impaler may not have drunk human blood as legend suggests, but it turns out he probably did shed bloody tears.
Molecular analysis of proteins on letters by Vlad III — also known as Vlad Dracula (‘son of the Dragon’) — shines fresh light on the prince’s health during his rule of Wallachia in the 15th century.
The circumstances of his death in 1476 remain unknown but researchers led by Italy’s University of Catania say Vlad likely had haemolacria and some kind of inflammatory condition.
The findings are significant because they support the legend that Vlad, infamous for the brutal punishment of his enemies, cried tears of blood.
