If you’re heading out for a hike in the Strážov Mountains, don’t miss a stop right in their heart. There, at an altitude of 591 meters, lies the ruin of Uhrovec Castle – surprisingly well-preserved and unexpectedly lively. Long-term restoration work is underway at the castle, and with each return visit, you can see the visible progress.
First, a word of warning: if you choose the shorter route, be prepared for a steeper climb. Start from the village of Uhrovské Podhradie following the green trail. At the beginning, be careful to take the correct turn onto the path on the left, located between two fences. Although the signpost says it takes 55 minutes to reach the castle, this route can be done in just 30 minutes. Once you catch your breath, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views of the surrounding forested hills and the entrance to Uhrovec Castle.
History of Uhrovec castle
The castle dates back to the second half of the 13th century. For a time, it was owned by the well-known nobleman Matúš Čák of Trenčín, who acquired the castle in exchange for properties in the Tekov region. After his death, the castle passed into the hands of King Charles Robert, and later to Sigismund of Luxembourg, who gifted it to Ctibor of Ctiborice and his brothers.
Thanks to its location in rough terrain, the castle avoided becoming a battleground and was spared from destruction even during Turkish invasions. Because of this, many nobles chose to store their valuables and donation charters here. The last owners of the castle were the Zay family from Croatia. However, for the sake of comfort, they started using the pleasant manor house in Uhrovec more frequently, and the castle gradually lost its purpose. For a while, it still served as a prison, but was eventually abandoned and left to decay. In the 19th century, the castle burned down, leaving only ruins. Despite that, the late Romanesque chapel and towers have been preserved – and you might also be curious to see what the castle’s toilets, fireplaces, or cisterns looked like, which you won’t find at many other ruins.
Since 2015, volunteers have been involved in restoring the castle. Nowadays, several events are held at the castle each year, and by arranging with the castellan, you can even spend the night there.
Visitor information
Distance from Trenčín: 43 km
Access: By car: Drive to the village of Uhrovské Podhradie, where you’ll find a parking area at the end of the village (near a large rock). From there, follow the green-marked hiking trail for about 30 minutes to the castle.
By public transport: Take a train or bus to Bánovce nad Bebravou, then continue by bus to the village of Uhrovec. From there, follow the red-marked trail to Uhrovské Podhradie, and finally take the green trail to Uhrovec Castle.
Opening hours: The castle is open to the public 7 days a week.
Admission: Voluntary donation towards the restoration of the castle
Contact:
Civic association Hrad Uhrovec
E-mail: pavlis@hraduhrovec.sk
Website: www.hraduhrovec.sk
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