Did you know Slovakia has more than 300 castles? Although a lot of them are ruins there are many still intact. These historic castles have survived heroic battles and raids and are some of the best places to visit in Slovakia.
Spiš Castle
This medieval castle was built in 12th century and is situated above the town of Spišské Podhradie and the village of Žehra. Covering about 41 thousand square meters it belongs to the biggest castles in Europe. Movies such as Dragonheart, The Lion in Winter and The Last Legion were shot right here.
Orava Castle
One the most beautiful and largest castles in Slovakia, in the northern Orava region, Orava Castle is situated on a high rock above Orava river. Your journey through the castle will take you hundreds of years back with historical exhibitions such as furnished rooms, large courtyards, torture rooms and weapon collections.
Bojnice Castle
Bojnice, the oldest spa town in Slovakia, is home to the country’s oldest zoo and its most visited fairy-tale castle. Bojnice Castle was for many years owned by kings and aristocrats. The reconstruction in the 17th century brought the castle its romantic appearance. Now it is one of the most visited castles in Slovakia.
Nitra Castle
This castle right above the old city Nitra dates from 11th Century and consists of four parts – the cathedral, the Bishop’s palace, the outbuildings and the well-preserved outer fortification walls with bastions. Today the Castle serves as the seat of the Bishop and the Archaeological Institution of the Slovak Science Academy. Walking along the Castle you can have a look at the courtyard and see a beautiful view of the city. The Cathedral is the place of regular church services, and because it is so beautiful, many young couples decide to say their “I do’s” there.
Bratislava Castle
This massive rectangular building with four towers stands on a strategic place – right above the Danube river in the capital city of Slovakia. Known as the symbol of Bratislava, the castle is undoubtedly the most popular sight in the city. The castle was completely ruined by a fire in 1811 and reconstructed in 1960’s to become a national cultural monument.
Devin Castle
Close to Bratislava this castle, declared to be a national monument of Slovakia is worth the 10km trip. Since it is situated on a high cliff over the Morava and Danube rivers, and standing on the frontier between Slovakia and Austria, it offers beautiful panoramic views and is a very popular place to visit.
Lietava Castle
Not far away from Rajecké Teplice & south of Žilina are the ruins of the Lietava Castle. Accessible only by foot (about 30 minute hike), it is the second largest castle in Slovakia. It has played an important role in the history of the north-western Slovakia. The castle was built to command movement along the Amber Road, the ancient trade route for the transfer of amber between Europe and Asia.
Information sources:
wikipedia.org slovakia.travel www.slovakia.com/tourism
