Kežmarok Castle
Prešov Region
Kežmarok Castle, located in the town of Kežmarok in Slovakia's Prešov Region, is a historically significant fortress originally built in the late 14th to early 15th century. It stands on the site of a 13th-century church dedicated to Saint Elizabeth, which was transformed into a castle in 1462 and later remodeled into a chateau in the 17th century. The castle served as the seat of the noble Thököly family, notable for their influence in the region. Architecturally, the castle exhibits Gothic elements alongside Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist modifications, including a valuable early Baroque chapel. After suffering a fire in 1787, the castle underwent restoration starting in the early 20th century. Today, it houses the Museum in Kežmarok, which preserves and displays local history and culture. Visitors can explore the castle's courtyard, the foundations of the Romanesque church, and the richly decorated chapel. A bronze equestrian statue of Count Imre Thököly, a prominent Hungarian magnate born in Kežmarok, was unveiled on the castle grounds in 2022, emphasizing the castle's historical importance. The castle's location offers scenic views of the High Tatras mountains, enhancing its appeal as a cultural and tourist attraction.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check the castle's opening hours in advance, as they may vary during holidays and special events. Larger groups should consider booking guided tours or visits by phone or online to ensure availability. The best times to visit are spring through early autumn when the weather is favorable for exploring the castle grounds and nearby attractions. Discounted tickets may be available for students, seniors, and families; purchasing tickets ahead of time can help avoid queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Interesting facts
- •The castle stands on the foundations of a 13th-century Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Elizabeth.
- •A bronze equestrian statue of Count Imre Thököly, a notable Hungarian nobleman born in Kežmarok, was unveiled at the castle in 2022.
- •The castle features architectural styles spanning Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicism due to multiple renovations.
- •The castle became municipal property in 1702, transitioning from noble to town ownership.
- •The castle was heavily damaged by fire in 1787 and restored beginning in the early 20th century.
History
Kežmarok Castle originated as a Gothic fortress built between the late 14th and early 15th centuries on the site of a 13th-century church dedicated to Saint Elizabeth.
The first written record of the castle dates back to 1447, during the period when Jan Jiskra's forces occupied the area.
Ownership passed through noble families including the Lasky, Rueber, and notably the Thököly family, who purchased the castle in 1610.
The castle underwent Renaissance, Baroque, and Classicist architectural modifications over the centuries.
It suffered a significant fire in 1787, leading to partial ruin.
Restoration efforts began in the early 20th century, preserving its historical and architectural legacy.
In 1702, the castle became municipal property of Kežmarok, marking a shift from private noble ownership to public stewardship.
Place Guide
Castle Courtyard13th century (church foundations)
The central open area of Kežmarok Castle, featuring the foundations of the original 13th-century Romanesque church and serving as a hub for cultural events and exhibitions.
Early Baroque Chapel17th century
A valuable chapel within the castle complex exhibiting early Baroque architectural and artistic elements, significant for its religious and cultural heritage.
Thököly Family Coat of Arms Portal1628
The entrance tower features a portal with the coats of arms of Štefan I. Thököly and his wife Katarína Thurzová, along with a Latin inscription commemorating the castle's renovation in 1628.
Museum in Kežmarok
Located within the castle, the museum houses exhibits on local history, culture, and art, including collections related to the Spiš region and the castle's own history.
Bronze Statue of Count Imre Thököly2022
A life-sized bronze equestrian statue of Count Imre Thököly, a notable 17th-century Hungarian nobleman and warrior born in Kežmarok, created by Hungarian sculptor Lajos Győrfi and unveiled in 2022.
Contact
Phone: 0918 742 726
