Interesting fact: Slovakia has more castles per capita compared to other countries across the world. The Bojnice Castle, also called the Castle of Spirits, is one of the fortresses that stand in the country.
With distinct romantic architecture, the castle seems like it came straight out of your childhood’s favorite fairy tales. That’s why it’s no surprise that it is dubbed as one of the Slovak Republic’s most visited castles to date.
A testament to Slovakia’s rich history and architectural heritage -Bojnice Castle
The Bojnice Castle is a towering edifice over the Strážov Mountains foothills. A gorgeous castle park surrounds the castle. In the park grows a lime tree that is already over 600 years old and it is said that King Matthias himself planted it during his time.
Beyond the magical exterior, the castle also has an equally grand interior with a long history that dates as far back as the 12th century. The citadel was home to several aristocratic families during its history. Although several fires, earthquakes, and wars damaged the castle, the stronghold continues to stand tall to this very day.
Bojnice Castle is currently part of the Slovak National Museum containing a massive collection of historical artifacts and fine arts.
A Quick Historical Account of Bojnice Castle
Bojnice Castle is among the oldest and most significant monuments in Slovakia. The castle is perched on a travertine mound towering over the city. The castle’s first ever written record was on the deed of the Zohor Abbey which dates back to 1113. Originally, the castle was made of wood and was an upgrade of the earlier hillfort. The Poznań family rebuilt the castle in stone during the 13th century.
Bojnice Castle Park
1321
Matthew III Csák, a nobleman from Hungary, seized the Bojnice Castle in the latter part of the 13th century. He continued to own the castle until 1321. After his death, various noble families proceeded to take turns of the ownership of the castle from the 14th to the 15th century. Some of these families include the Gileth, Noffry, and Leustach.
King Matthias Corvinus donated the castle and the state in 1489 to Jan Corvinus, his illegitimate son. After King Matthias died, the castle was seized by the Zápoľský troops and they continued to occupy it until 1526.
