Miljana Castle
Krapinsko-zagorska županija
Miljana Castle, located near Kumrovec in Krapinsko-zagorska County, Croatia, is a historic castle built primarily by the noble Ratkaj family over three centuries. Its construction began between 1597 and 1603 with the northern wing, intended as the core of a Renaissance four-winged castle. The castle evolved into an L-shaped structure during the 17th century, with arcaded facades and enclosed courtyards. Later additions in the 18th century introduced Baroque elements, including painted facades, risalits, and a clock tower that balances the horizontal volumes with vertical emphasis. The castle has been restored to its former glory, notably by Dr. Franjo Kajfež in 1980, and is today considered one of Croatia's best-preserved castles. It gained wider recognition as the filming location for the Croatian telenovela "Ponos Ratkajevih." The castle is a protected cultural monument, showcasing architectural styles from Renaissance to Baroque with its stone construction, painted facades, and characteristic arcades.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to visit Miljana Castle during spring and summer months for pleasant weather and to enjoy the surrounding landscape. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the castle's history and architecture. The castle is a cultural monument, so respectful behavior and photography permissions should be checked on site. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Check local opening hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally.
Interesting facts
- •Miljana Castle is one of the best-preserved castles in Croatia.
- •It served as the filming location for the popular Croatian telenovela "Ponos Ratkajevih."
- •The castle was built over multiple phases spanning from the late 16th to the 18th century.
- •The clock tower on the castle's facade creates a vertical counterbalance to the horizontal building volumes.
- •The castle's facades feature painted rustication and decorative elements typical of Baroque style.
History
Miljana Castle was initially constructed between 1597 and 1603 by the Ratkaj noble family, who owned it until 1793 when the last family member died.
The castle underwent several construction phases, expanding from a northern wing to an L-shaped building during the 17th century, with further Baroque additions in the 18th century.
Ownership changed multiple times, including acquisition by the Jäger family in 1900 and later restoration by Dr.
Franjo Kajfež in 1980.
Today, it remains a protected cultural monument and a significant example of Croatian Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Place Guide
Northern Wing1597-1603
The oldest part of the castle, built between 1597 and 1603, featuring arcaded facades with Tuscan columns and a Renaissance architectural core.
L-Shaped Expansion17th century
17th-century addition that gave the castle its L-shaped layout, enclosing the courtyard with a wall and arcades leading to rooms along the facade.
Baroque Facades and Risalits18th century
18th-century painted facades with black-blue colors, white and ochre decorations, and risalits with rectangular gables and elliptical windows, enhancing the castle's Baroque character.
Clock Tower18th century
A small tower with a clock on the southern facade, creating a vertical counterpoint to the horizontal building mass and enhancing the castle's silhouette.
Southern Economic Winglate 18th century
The last construction phase, a single-story wing with economic rooms and a large portal, uniting the castle into a clear compositional whole.
