Article Muráň Castle
The third highest Slovak castle
Most visitors to the Muráňská Planina National Park will not miss a visit to the large Muráň Castle, which was built at an altitude of 938 m. The usual walking route leads from the village of Muráň on a long 4 km long climb along the red tourist sign. Before the final ascent to the castle, it is possible to have a snack in the bistro of the Zámok cottage (843 m) in the saddle below the castle. From here, a short steep final ascent leads up the stone steps to the entrance gate.
Extensive high castle ruins
This very large ruin (360 x96 m) was first mentioned in 1271. After it was occupied by Jiskrov's and fraternal troops in the first half of the 15th century, the first major reconstruction took place. In the years 1529–48, the castle was owned by the robber knight Matej Bašo, who was killed here during the siege of the castle by the imperial army. After 1610 it became the property of the Séčiov family and in 1666 the castle became a place of preparation for the anti-Habsburg uprising. It burned down in 1702 and was never rebuilt.
The castle grounds
Approximately in the middle of the complex stood a palace with a chapel and other residential and farm buildings. There were several buildings in the large courtyard. The large courtyard was surrounded by fortifications that followed the shape of the terrain. On its northeast side were several circular bastions, on the west side were prismatic bastions. As part of the reconstruction work, the Gothic entrance tower was newly reconstructed.
Stunning views of the Muráńská planina National Park
The castle stands on the hill Cigánka, which is dominated by a rock massif, declared a national nature reserve. From several places of the castle there are views of the very deep valleys of the Muráňská planina National Park, which allows its visitors a number of trips on beautiful hiking trails.
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