Bojnice Castle

Bojnice Castle (Bojnický zámok) is a fairy-tale castle in the town of Bojnice in Slovakia and is regarded as the most visited castle in the country. First mentioned in 1113, it was given to Matthew III Csák in 1302; in 1527 or 1528 (sources give both years) the Thurzó family took it and rebuilt it as a Renaissance castle, and from 1646 it belonged to the Pálffy family. It owes its present look to Count János Ferenc Pálffy (1829 to 1908), who rebuilt it in Romantic style between 1888 and 1910, modelled on the Loire châteaux, acting as his own architect and interior designer.

Under his will of 1907 the castle became a museum, now run by the Slovak National Museum. About 26 metres below the fourth courtyard lies a travertine cave, rediscovered in 1888 during the rebuilding.

You see the interior only on a guided tour of about 75 minutes; book night tours a few days ahead. Taking photos costs an extra fee. From Prievidza, a bus gets you to Bojnice in about 10 minutes. The International Festival of Ghosts and Spirits adds atmosphere; History Hit places it in late April or early May. Check dates and tours beforehand.