Oravský Podzámok

Oravský Podzámok – A Must-See Castle in Slovakia

Oravský Podzámok, located in northern Slovakia, is a must-see castle that is both beautiful and steeped in history. It sits atop a rocky hill, overlooking the majestic Orava River and the surrounding countryside. This castle has been around since the 13th century, and its history is as captivating as the view from its walls.

 

History of Oravský Podzámok

Oravský Podzámok was built on top of an ancient settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. It was first mentioned in written records in the 13th century as the property of the Orava family. During its long history, the castle has changed hands many times, with various noble families, such as the Thurzos, Palffy, Zápoľskys, Pálfys, and the Csáky’s, all having ownership of it at one time or another. The castle was the residence of the last Slovak king, Matej Korvín, for a short time in the 15th century.

The castle was also the site of many battles and sieges, with the most famous one being the Battle of Podzámok in 1433, which was fought between Hungarian forces and troops from the Orava region. This battle ended in a victory for the Hungarian forces, and the castle was damaged in the process. The castle was eventually restored, and in the 18th century it was renovated and modernized in the Baroque style.

 

What to See at Oravský Podzámok

Oravský Podzámok is one of the most impressive castles in Slovakia, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The castle is surrounded by a wall with two towers and an entrance gate. Inside, there are two courtyards, a chapel, and the ruins of a 15th-century Gothic palace. Visitors can also explore the castle’s prison, which was used for centuries to imprison those who went against the ruling family.

The castle also houses a museum, which features various artifacts from its long history. The museum displays items such as weapons, furniture, and paintings, as well as the oldest book printed in Slovakia, which dates back to 1521. The museum also features a hall dedicated to the Battle of Podzámok, where visitors can learn about the battle and its impact on the castle and the region.

The castle’s location also offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, visitors can admire the beauty of the Orava River, the nearby villages, and the Tatras Mountains in the distance.

 

Getting to Oravský Podzámok

Oravský Podzámok is located in northern Slovakia, about 15 kilometers from the town of Dolný Kubín. The easiest way to get there is by car, as the castle is well sign-posted and there is plenty of parking available. There is also a bus that runs from Dolný Kubín to the castle, and visitors can also take the train from nearby towns such as Ružomberok and Liptovský Mikuláš.

The castle is open all year round, with the exception of some holidays, and admission is relatively affordable. The castle is also a popular venue for weddings and other events, and visitors can inquire about booking it for special occasions.