Fairytale Bojnice Castle is a key tourist attraction of Slovakia. A two-hour drive north-east of Bratislava brings you to a most photogenic chateau with an interesting history.
Bojnice Castle's History
First built in Gothic style in the twelfth century, early records show it belonged to a Benedictine monastery. After complicated exchanges of ownership, it came to the wealthy Pálffy family from the mid-seventeenth century until the end of World War Two, when the state assumed possession. The last Count Pálffy had, however, requested that his castle become an attraction open to the public, and as such it was declared a national cultural monument in 1970.
Bojnice Today
The setting of Bojnice Castle is breathtaking in itself, surrounded as it is atop its small hill by a wide moat. From a distance the castle is an irresistible photo stop, especially if a clear sunny day gives the towers a perfect contrast against a blue sky.
Although most of what you see today of the Rapunzel blue towers and strong stone walls is a reconstruction, the magic is still there. Tours take you through room after room of gold, fancy but out-of-style furniture and an art collection. Unfortunately it's usually only possible to look through the rooms as part of a tour, but they run regularly and give enough time to browse.
A Haunted Castle?
The International Festival of Ghosts and Spirits is held at Bojnice in early May each year, but locals will tell you eerie tales year round. Many stories center around Count Pálffy's coffin in the crypt, which allegedly used to leak a mysterious liquid. It's said that the count's illegitimate son was buried with him, but the explanations for the leaking substance are not only related to this. Be sure to ask your tour guide for their take on this part of Bojnice's history!
More information: Bojnice Castle is open 9-5 from May to September, and 10 to 3 during the winter season. Tours are available in English, but they recommend booking them a day ahead. Get more info at their website.
