Súľovský hrad
The ruins of Súľovský hrad are located in the Súľovské skaly, a national nature reserve, at an altitude of 660 m above sea level. Its history dates back to the 15th century. The castle served primarily for observing and protecting adjacent roads, as well as a hiding place for the valuables of local gentry and nobles. An interesting fact is that it is one of the smallest castles in Slovakia. A trip to Súľovský hrad is among the less demanding ones, and even older children can manage it.
Súľovský hrad originated in the 13th century and was originally built as a smaller castle, mentioned as the Roháč fortified settlement. It was not until 1470 that King Matthias Corvinus elevated it to a castle. In 1550, it was burned down by Rafael Podmanický, but the succeeding Sirmiensis family reconstructed it. Members of the family gradually moved out to more comfortable manor houses, and by the beginning of the 18th century, only military guards stayed here. They eventually abandoned it as well, and since then it has only fallen into decay. The work of destruction was completed by an earthquake in 1858, which severely damaged the castle.
The castle grounds consisted of an upper and lower castle, which were connected by a tunnel corridor carved into the rock. The lower castle was formed by a multi-story defensive entrance bastion. The upper part of the castle could only be entered through a very narrow opening in the rock, barely wide enough for one person, which was additionally protected by a drawbridge. It is assumed that this upper part had 18 rooms. At the highest point of the upper castle, an observation post was built with an excellent view of the wide surroundings.
To this day, only a torso of the castle and a few walls squeezed between rock towers have been preserved. Remnants of four windows and eight loop-holes are also visible. In the lower castle, you can see part of the palace with a viewing platform, and the entrance with a loop-hole carved into the rock is also noticeable. In the upper part, you will find traces of a stone staircase, part of a rainwater cistern, and a rock pylon. The ascent to the upper floor is marked by steel rings embedded in the rock, which you can hold onto if needed. A metal ladder will take you to the remains of the second floor. Here, a captivating view of the Súľovské vrchy and the valley below will open up to you.
A 6 km long educational trail starting at the parking lot below Súľovské skaly will reliably lead you to the castle. You will follow the red hiking trail and complete the entire ascent in approximately an hour and a half. Information panels with facts about the flora, fauna, and geology of the Súľovské vrchy are located along the entire length of the educational trail.
In the Súľovské skaly, you can also admire an interesting rock formation, Stratený budzogáň. After a successful hike, plan a trip to Lietavský hrad or Bytčiansky zámok. The region of Horné Považie in Severné Slovensko hides many beauties worth seeing. Book your stay and choose suitable accommodation near Súľovský hrad. For instance, stay in a comfortable guesthouse in Súľov. If you prefer privacy, you can choose from a number of cozy cabins, as well as romantic wooden cottages and stylish apartments. While planning trips around the area, our page kam na výlet v Súľove - Hradnej will certainly come in handy.
