Vértes Castle
Fejér
Csókakő Castle is a medieval fortress located in Fejér County, Hungary, on the side of the 479-meter-high Csóka Hill at the edge of the Vértes Hills. It was strategically built to control an important medieval route through the Gaja stream valley, mentioned already in the foundation charter of the Tihany Abbey in 1051. The castle's origins date back to the late 13th century, first documented in 1299, and it was initially owned by the Csák noble family. Over the centuries, it served as a royal castle and passed through the hands of notable Hungarian noble families such as the Rozgonyi and Kanizsai families. The fortress played a role during the Turkish occupation, serving as an outpost with a small garrison, but eventually lost its military significance due to the overwhelming Ottoman forces. Architecturally, the castle consists of an upper castle built in the 13th century with a trapezoidal tower and palace wing, and a larger lower castle added in the 15th century, featuring a gate tower and a chapel whose sanctuary pillars still remain. The castle was abandoned after the Ottoman era and fell into ruin but has been subject to archaeological excavations and restorations since the mid-19th century, with significant efforts continuing under the National Castle Program since 2017. Today, Csókakő Castle is a protected monument offering visitors a glimpse into Hungary's medieval military architecture and history.
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Tip: The best time to visit Csókakő Castle is during late spring to early autumn when the weather is favorable for exploring the ruins and surrounding nature. Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets or joining guided tours that may offer deeper insights into the castle's history. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Since the site is partly a ruin with ongoing restoration, sturdy footwear and comfortable hiking attire are recommended. Early visits in the morning or on weekdays can help avoid crowds and provide a more tranquil experience.
Interesting facts
- •Csókakő Castle is the only medieval castle in Fejér County that was actively used during the Turkish occupation.
- •The castle is built on a rocky plateau with steep cliffs on three sides, providing natural defense.
- •A 1690 sketch shows a mosque inside the castle, mentioned also by Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi.
- •The castle’s chapel sanctuary pillars remain visible despite centuries of decay.
- •In 1687, when the castle was finally freed from Ottoman control, 68 soldiers, 97 women, and 39 children left the fortress.
History
Csókakő Castle was built after the Mongol invasion by a member of the Csák noble family, with the first written record dating from 1299.
It became a royal castle in 1326 when King Charles I acquired it, and it was granted to various noble families over the following centuries.
In the 15th century, the Rozgonyi family fortified and expanded the castle.
The fortress lost its military importance in the 16th century during the Ottoman expansion, falling under Turkish control multiple times until it was finally liberated in 1687.
After the Ottoman period, the castle ceased to serve military purposes and gradually fell into ruin.
Archaeological interest began in the 19th century, and restoration efforts have continued intermittently, with significant modern renovations starting in 2017 under Hungary’s National Castle Program.
Place Guide
Upper Castle13th century
The oldest part of Csókakő Castle, built in the 13th century, featuring a trapezoidal three-story tower and connected palace wing. It sits on a rocky plateau protected by steep cliffs and artificial rock trenches.
Lower Castle15th century
Constructed in the 15th century during the Rozgonyi family's ownership, the lower castle is about three times larger than the upper castle. It includes the surviving gate tower and was built to enhance the fortress's defenses.
Castle Chapel15th century
Located on the terrace between the upper and lower castle, the chapel dates from the 15th century. While only the sanctuary pillars remain, it is a key historical religious site within the fortress.
