The House of Basarab was a ruling dynasty in Wallachia, a historical region in present-day Romania. It emerged in the 14th century and is known for establishing the principality's independence from the Hungarian Kingdom. The dynasty's most notable figure is Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the Dracula legend. The Basarab family played a significant role in the political and cultural development of Wallachia. They ruled for several centuries, with various members contributing to the region's stability and growth. The dynasty eventually declined in the late 17th century, leading to the rise of other ruling families in the area.