Varaždin Old Town
Varaždinska županija
Varaždin Old Town, known locally as Stari grad Varaždin, is a prominent Renaissance fortress located on the northwestern edge of Varaždin's historic center. Originally mentioned in the 12th century, it served as the seat of Varaždin's prefects and evolved through significant architectural phases. In the late 14th century, the Counts of Celje fortified it in Gothic style, and in the 16th century, under Ivan Ungnad's ownership, it was transformed into a modern Renaissance water castle (Wasserburg) with stone walls, round towers, and earth ramparts filled with water, designed by the Italian architect Domenico dell'Allio. The fortress remained in the hands of the Hungarian-Croatian Erdődy family from the late 16th century until the early 20th century, who added Baroque adaptations. Today, it houses the City Museum of Varaždin, preserving and exhibiting the region's rich history and culture. The fortress is a key symbol of Varaždin's defensive and administrative past, reflecting the city's strategic importance in northern Croatia. It is also notable for its unique architectural typology and its representation on the former Croatian 5 kuna banknote, albeit depicted mirrored.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the City Museum Varaždin's opening hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally. The best time to explore the fortress is during spring and early autumn when the weather is mild and cultural events often take place. Tickets can be purchased on-site, but booking ahead is recommended during peak tourist seasons and special exhibitions. Discounts are typically available for students, seniors, and groups. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the fortress's history and architecture and are worth considering for a richer experience.
Interesting facts
- •The fortress is a rare example of a Renaissance Wasserburg, a water castle surrounded by moats and earth ramparts.
- •It was designed and rebuilt in the 16th century by Domenico dell'Allio, an Italian architect active in Styria.
- •The fortress appears on the back of the old Croatian 5 kuna banknote, but the image was printed mirrored compared to its actual orientation.
- •The fortress was historically the seat of Varaždin prefects and played a key defensive role against Ottoman incursions.
History
The fortress was first mentioned in the 12th century as the administrative seat of Varaždin's prefects.
In the late 14th century, it came under the ownership of the Counts of Celje, who rebuilt it in Gothic style.
The major transformation occurred in the 16th century when it was remodeled into a Renaissance water fortress featuring stone walls, round towers, and a moat, under the direction of Domenico dell'Allio.
From the late 16th century until 1925, the fortress was owned by the Erdődy family, who introduced Baroque style modifications.
Its defensive role diminished over time, and it now serves as a cultural monument and museum.
Place Guide
Central Quadrangular Building14th century
The core of the fortress dating back to the late 14th century, originally surrounded by wooden palisades before later stone fortifications were added.
Renaissance FortificationsMid-16th century
Stone walls with circular towers, earth ramparts, and a water-filled moat constructed in the mid-16th century under Ivan Ungnad’s ownership, designed by Domenico dell'Allio.
Baroque AdaptationsLate 16th century to 17th century
Later modifications made by the Erdődy family adding Baroque stylistic elements to the fortress structures.
City Museum Varaždin
Current occupant of the fortress, exhibiting Varaždin’s history, culture, and art within the historic walls of the fortress.
Contact
Phone: 042 658 754
