Ruins Kostolné

In western Slovakia, in the southwestern part of Považský Inovec in the cadastral area of the village of Lúka, you can find the currently ruined Hradu Tematín. It is an ideal place for easy hiking and spending time in nature. If you head to Tematínsky hrad, you certainly won't regret it.

Let's look into the history of this castle. From documents, we find out that it was founded in the 13th century right after the invasion of Mongol troops. Its task was to guard the borders of Hungary and at the same time serve as a refuge for local residents. During its existence, it passed through the hands of several wealthy and prominent families. The Bercsényi family is one of such families, associated with the following story. Supposedly at the time when Rákoczi's uprising was supposed to arrest Mikuláš Bercsényi and occupy the castle, this plan failed for the army. Mikuláš Bercsényi devised a solution where he swapped places with his commander, and instead of capturing the commander, who was already long gone by that time, they caught the garrison captain.

The castle was finally burned down in 1710 and only a ruin has remained of it to this day. This ruin is currently a great place for walks, even though it is necessary to be careful. Entry to it is at your own risk. It doesn't matter whether you come in spring or autumn, there are no entry restrictions here. You can even symbolically support the restoration of the castle with a voluntary admission fee into the donation box.

The ascent to the castle is possible from several places. The path is not difficult, it is rather long. Expect it to take you more than an hour and a half of your time. You have the option to go along the blue trail from the local recreational resort using the tourist path, or alternatively set out through Lúčanská dolina. Also in the village of Hrádok, you can find the right direction to the castle either along the marked route or the unmarked path.

Perhaps you are a family with children and it will be interesting for you to look for accommodation near Hrade Tematín. You need to keep in mind that your smallest offspring will remain tired after such a hike and will appreciate a rest. If you are looking for options of where to go on a trip in the vicinity of the castle, check out the animals at ZOO farme New Zealand. In winter, skiing on the slopes of the Ski Bezovec resort is great instead. Perfect romance is provided by cottages and chalets in Lúka, or even rooms in hotels near kúpeľoch Piešťany. Choose the right accommodation and book your stay in Lúka through our portal.

In the village of Podbranč, in the Podzámok area, lies Hrad Branč. This castle, standing proudly on a cliff of the Myjavská pahorkatina, was once famous. Today, only ruins remain, sought after by tourists or people who love spending time in nature and history.

In the Senica district, a partially reconstructed castle stands atop Homoľov kopec above the village of Podbranč. It is situated at an altitude of 475 m above sea level, and reaching it is relatively easy. There is a small parking lot near the local cemetery where you can park your car, and after a few minutes' walk along an asphalt path, you are there. It will take no more than 10 minutes of your time. Here, a cashier awaits to let you into the castle grounds for a nominal admission fee.

When visiting this place, you can notice the oldest parts of the castle that are still standing. These are part of a two-room palace block in the courtyard of the inner castle. The castle was once divided into two main sections: the lower castle and the middle castle. These sections were separated by a deep dry moat. The entrance to the middle castle was located opposite the current monument. The middle castle had 2 functional parts: the northern courtyard and the residential palace section. From the courtyard, you could access the rooms, of which there were 40 at the time. The castle also featured two wells. In 1939, a monument was erected in its grounds to commemorate the suffering of imprisoned Protestant priests.

Legends are also associated with this castle. It is said that when Lord Pongrácz ruled the castle, he constantly plundered neighboring estates. What he stole, he sold on the meadow below the castle as if at a fair. There is also a harsher legend, according to which the robber knight Pongrácz seized the castle by force and had the former owners murdered. But as the saying goes, "What goes around comes around," and so this knight received what he had caused to the former owners. During one night, he fell into an unknown, endless passage and reportedly impaled himself on a dagger. You will like the third legend about the Black Lady. They will tell you that one right at the castle.

The castle is an interesting place. Its premises can also be used for commercial purposes, such as hosting a wedding or another event. If you are interested in exploring the beauty of this area, visit Kaštieľ v Sobotišti. Currently, the Múzeum Samuela Jurkoviča, which is dedicated to 150 years of history, is located on its premises. This well-known educator influenced the lives of many generations in Slovakia. Perfect relaxation during summer days will be ensured by the opportunity to swim or lounge on the shores of Kunovská priehrada. You can also admire natural scenery if you walk up to the lookout tower Hrajky. In case of less favorable weather, they will gladly welcome you at Plaváreň Senica.

A trip to this castle is well worth it. Likewise, staying in this region longer to enjoy it to the fullest is a great choice. In that case, we recommend booking accommodation near Hrad Branč. From our offer, you can select chalets in Podbranč, which provide their visitors with privacy, or choose beautiful rooms in guest houses. We will be happy to help you with your choice.