Lužnica Castle
Zagrebačka županija
Lužnica Castle is an 18th-century baroque castle located in the suburban settlement of Lužnica near Zaprešić in Croatia. Built in the second half of the 18th century, it exemplifies the multi-winged open castle style typical of northwestern Croatia and the Hrvatsko Zagorje region. The castle features a one-story, three-winged layout with a central hall accentuated by risalits and four cylindrical corner towers with conical roofs, which served residential rather than defensive purposes. Surrounded by an eight-hectare landscaped park with walking paths, a lake, and gazebos, it offers a serene environment. Historically, it was owned by noble families such as Čikulin, Moscon, and later Baron Rauch, who rebuilt it in 1791, as evidenced by the dated staircase. Since 1925, the castle has belonged to the Sisters of Mercy of St. Vincent de Paul and now functions as the Spiritual-Educational Center Marijin Dvor, hosting retreats, seminars, and educational programs. The interior reflects its residential origins, with a grand main salon on the first floor adorned with traces of wall paintings and a chapel dedicated to the Holy Cross. The castle underwent a significant restoration completed in 2007, preserving its architectural integrity and adapting spaces for modern use. Lužnica Castle stands as a cultural monument of the highest category and remains a vital spiritual and community hub in the region.
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Tip: Visit Lužnica Castle from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9 AM and 12 PM or 1 PM and 5 PM. Mondays and certain holidays are closed. Guided tours are recommended and should be booked in advance, especially for groups of 10 or more. Entrance to the castle and park is free on special event days like Open Doors or Christmas markets. Explore the park on designated paths due to recent storm damage. The castle is accessible for visitors with mobility aids. Private events require permission from the owners.
Interesting facts
- •The castle features four cylindrical corner towers with conical roofs that were residential, not defensive.
- •The year 1791 is inscribed on the main wooden staircase, marking a significant rebuilding phase.
- •The castle park covers eight hectares and includes a 2.5 km walking path, a lake, and gazebos.
- •Lužnica Castle is classified as a cultural monument of the highest category in Croatia.
- •Since 1925, the castle has been owned and managed by the Sisters of Mercy of St. Vincent de Paul, who run a spiritual-educational center there.
History
Lužnica Castle was constructed in the second half of the 18th century, likely on the site of an earlier fortress.
Initially owned by the noble Čikulin family, it later passed to the Moscon family and then to Baron Rauch, who remodeled it around 1791.
In 1925, ownership transferred to the Sisters of Mercy of St.
Vincent de Paul, who repurposed the castle for religious, educational, and social uses including housing elderly nuns and running schools.
A major restoration project by the Ministry of Culture was completed in 2007, preserving the castle's baroque architecture and adapting it for contemporary spiritual and educational activities.
Place Guide
Main Salon18th century
The grand representative salon on the first floor served as the primary social gathering space for the noble families. It features traces of wall paintings and houses the family coat of arms of Baron Rauch on the tiled stove.
Chapel of the Holy Cross1761
Located in the southeastern wing, the chapel was consecrated in 1761 and is an integral part of the castle's spiritual heritage, reflecting its religious function especially after the Sisters of Mercy took ownership.
Castle Park and PerimeterLate 18th century
The castle is surrounded by an eight-hectare landscaped park established at the end of the 18th century, featuring rich vegetation, a 2.5 km walking path, a lake, and gazebos, providing a tranquil setting for visitors and spiritual retreats.
Contact
Phone: 01 3350 944
