Orava Castle
Slovakia's Medieval Past 

Orava Castle brings you back to the Slovakian medieval past. Although today we mainly see its might and beauty – a little bit of imagination may reveal most of what it witnessed during centuries…..

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Orava Castle - Northern Slovakia

     Orava Castle ranks among the most significant monuments of the medieval castle architecture in Europe.

Due to its amazing beauty and location, it is also one of the most eye-catching attractions in Northern Slovakia and I’m sure that after the first look at the castle pictures you will all agree with this statement.

The first written record of Orava Castle goes back to the 13th century, when the initial - mostly wooden structure was built on the top of the massive 112 meters tall limestone cliff-rock. During the next centuries due to its strategic location on the “busy” merchant’s road the castle was significantly modified.

The wooden structures were replaced by stone, the middle and lower castles were added and the whole complex was re-fortified. The castle’s complex acquired its final form in the Renaissance and Neo-Gothic styles at the end of 16th century.

Orava: It is quite an incredible location for the upper castle. In the past certainly easy to defend from enemies, now just very impressive and picturesque.

Subsequent centuries were not that fortunate for the castle. It often changed landlords and as it usually happens in such situations - it was neglected finally burning down in 1800. The massive reconstruction effort was accomplished after WW2 bringing it back to the well deserved splendor and glory of past centuries – but this time as a museum including the archeological, ethnographic and natural history sections.

Orava: Description of the castle's complex

Orava: Winter scenery.

View from the Orava River.

     For me personally, the castle’s complex brings a memory of a good old-time fairy-tale. The scenery of the steep cliff towered by the castle’s complex, its walls and defensive towers is almost surrealistic.

The Orava river partially surrounding the limestone rock with the castle deepens the impression of its “Not-from-this-world” appearance, making it looking like "up in the sky", more remote, inaccessible and first of all mysterious……

It stands up just like a lonely guardian overlooking the Orava’s valley– the true witness of the past. But unlike in the past – these days it opens its gates to those passing by with a warm hospitality.

So please welcome to the Orava castle in free pictures – it will be a fascinating tour.
To see the pictures of the royal castle in Cracow (Krakow - Poland) go to:
Wawel Castle - Cracow 

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