Slovakia, a picturesque country located in the heart of Central Europe, harbors a wealth of historical and architectural treasures. Among these jewels are impressive castles that invite travelers on a fascinating journey through the medieval and Renaissance eras.
ORAVA CASTLE
Orava Castle (Oravský hrad) is one of the most beautiful and impressive fortresses in Slovakia. Located in the village of Oravský Podzámok, in the north-western part of the country, in the Orava region. The castle is situated on a high cliff above the Orava River, which gives it a spectacular view and a unique atmosphere.
The history of the castle dates back to the 13th century when it was built by the Hungarians on Slovakian territory. Since then, it has undergone many changes and reconstructions. During the castle tour, it’s worth paying attention to its impressive architecture, towers, courtyards, and rich museum collection. The castle’s interiors have been arranged in a way that allows travelers to travel back in time and feel the atmosphere of bygone eras.
BOJNICE CASTLE
Bojnice Castle, located in the picturesque town of Bojnice in Slovakia, is one of the most fairytale-like and romantic castles in Central Europe. The history of the castle dates back to the 9th century, although the current structure was built in the 13th century in the Gothic style. Bojnice Castle is surrounded by a beautiful landscaped park, which adds to its charm. Within the castle grounds, there are various exhibitions showcasing historical collections. However, the most characteristic feature of the castle is its beautiful facade adorned with numerous sculptures and detailed decorations. At the top of the castle tower, there is a colorful roof made of red and green tiles, which is one of the symbols of Bojnice.
BECKOV CASTLE
Beckov Castle was situated on a high limestone cliff, which served as a strategic defensive position. The rock on which the castle was built had natural defensive features such as steep slopes and difficult access from three sides. Its origins date back to the 13th century when it was constructed to defend an important trade route. The strategic location of the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular tourist destination for both travelers and history enthusiasts.
SPIS CASTLE
The Spis Castle is a monumental fortress towering on a hill in the town of Spišské Podhradie in Slovakia. It was built in the 12th century in the area of present-day Slovak Paradise, on the edge of the Spis Basin.
One of the most fascinating features of the castle is its vastness and impressive size. The Spis Castle occupies an area of over 4 hectares, making it one of the largest castles in Central Europe. Its walls reach a total length of over 600 meters, and the height of some towers exceeds 40 meters.
